Success Stories: Herman Mashaba

Herman’s academic dream was shattered in 1980 in his second year of a B.Admin. at the University of The North when the University was shut down due to political unrests. When the University was reopened after two months, he decided not to go back. Strong promises to send him out of the country for military training.

Late 1980 found himself a clerical job with Spar Pretoria where he worked for 7 months. Then worked 23 months for Motani Industries, which became his longest and last salaried job. During his spell at Motani, managed to buy a car, and two months later resigned and started his business career.

Sold different products on a commission basis from the boot of his car for close to two years. Products portfolio ranging from insurance, fire detection systems, linen, crockery, dinner services, etc. His break came late 1983 when he was exposed and sold hair products on a commission basis for one of the companies in Johannesburg. It took him 19 months to make up his mind to start his own hair care manufacturing business.

February 1985 the first bottle of Black Like Me products hit the South African market. Business started with three other partners and wife with a R30 000 loan, in a 200sm SBDC units in Ga-Rankuwa, in the then homeland of Bophuthatswana. Business enjoyed massive growth from inception. Built and moved to own factory in Mabopane by 1990. Mabopane factory was gutted by arsonist in November 1993.

- July 1997 sold business to Colgate Palmolive
- August 1999 bought business back from Colgate Palmolive
- 2001 launch products in London, UK
- 2002 took a decision to join the BEE arena. Formed Leswikeng Minerals & Energy (Pty) Ltd
- January 2004 resigned as CEO of Black Like Me. Still remained as major shareholder
- 2004 elected as Chairman by the Cosmetic Industry in S.A. to guide the process to develop Black Economic Empowerment Initiatives
- To-date has invested in various sectors; mining, construction, exhibitions, real estate, security, aviation and information technology
- 2005 sold 49.9% of Black Like Me to Amka Products