By Nkosazana Ngwadla — Originally published in UD Express
Just a little over a month ago, Sikelelwa Nofemela and her husband, Mbulelo, opened the doors to their restaurant, Ribs Etc, in Despatch — and they are already making an impact in the area with their signature soups that cost only R10.
“The idea actually came from a friend who also owns a restaurant in East London, when we were speaking in a Bible study a while ago. He suggested it after I said I would want to give back to the community when I open a food business,” Sikelelwa said.
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Although both Sike, as she is affectionately known, and her husband are industrial engineers by profession, she has always had a passion for food.
So, she left her engineering job and became a food content creator for some time before ultimately opening Ribs Etc with her husband.
“A previous rib restaurant in Despatch closed down and we saw an opportunity to establish our business because ribs are part of the culture in the community.
“We kept a very similar recipe to the previous restaurant, but also added new items to the menu to draw in a different market as well.
“But more dear to our hearts is the initiative of the R10 soup which was specifically targeted at people who still need something to eat, but might not necessarily afford other items on the menu. We are Christians and believe in the importance of allowing God’s Kingdom to take a stand and touch people’s lives through us,” she said.
In future, Sike and her husband want to create employment opportunities for people who are often face discrimination.
“There are people who do not have formal culinary qualifications, but are passionate and have tons of experience in the food industry. It’s important for us to create space for such people in business,” she explained.
Sikelelwa’s younger brother is another force that keeps the fire burning in her. He was diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the discrimination he faces breaks her heart.
“I look at him and see someone who is just like everyone else, but because he does not hold a matric certificate, he can’t get employment. The stigma attached to him and people like him really is not right,” she said.
Through Ribs Etc, she aims to change the narrative and do what she can in creating a safe and productive environment for as many marginalised people as possible.
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