Velelo Technology, a software development studio based in Bloemfontein, provides web development and software solutions to small and growing businesses in the Free State. Founder and CEO Rethabile Bridget Velelo said the business was founded in May this year.

“What Velelo Technology does, is build websites, booking systems, pricing tools and other solutions that help businesses run more smoothly and establish a credible online presence.”

Velelo said solving the lack of an online presence among local businesses is important to her because of her grandmother’s experience as a street vendor. Many small businesses want to attract bigger opportunities, but struggle to do so without a strong online presence.

Founder and CEO of Velelo technology, Rethabile Bridget Velelo. Photo supplied

“What I discovered, is that most people want customers to come to them, especially during events like Macufe and Lemo Fest.”

Velelo is currently developing a smart navigation system designed to help people find their way around multi-floor buildings. The system is intended for indoor spaces, particularly campuses, where users can navigate between classrooms, offices and other facilities.

“The smart navigation is for anyone who is new to the space around campus and does not know their way around the place.” She has already developed a working demo of the system and presented it to her coordinator and lecturer at Rosebank College, Mr Kamo Tshabalala, who responded positively to the project.

Velelo said what sets her solution apart from existing products is that it is designed specifically for the local environment, rather than being adapted from an overseas product.

One of her biggest challenges as a student entrepreneur is balancing her studies with running a business. “But learning to prioritize and trust people around me to help me carry the load has been the biggest lesson I have learned.”

Velelo Technology has three clients, and she said feedback and repeat business have shown her that there is a need for the services she provides.

She developed the project herself along with the support she received from lecturers and staff in Rosebank College. “I funded the project by reinvesting what I earned from client projects back into the business. My family’s belief in what I am doing has carried me through a lot too.”

Looking ahead, Velelo said her business is focusing on growing steadily, getting more clients and more systems that helps small businesses run better and eventually building a local team to create opportunities for other young people and developers in the Free State.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa sm

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