You Can Take Me Out Of The Ghetto, But You Can’t Take The Ghetto Out Of Me.
The maxim perhaps rings true for two of South African popular footballers who despite their fame and fortune that took them from the ghetto, they just cannot get enough of the ghetto where they have launched their start-up business (See Pics below).
Former Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs midfielders Siphiwe “Shabba” Tshabalala and Reneilwe “Yeye” Letsholonyane telepathic and mercurial understanding has transcended from the field of play to social business space as the two midfielders have taken their partnership to another level by a launching a pub business in the heart of Soweto.
The two stars and best friends are running a swanky, classy and trendy drinking hole in Dobsonville, Soweto named Shaye in reference to their nicknames.
The double storey lounge attracting the who is who of South Africa offers stunning views of Soweto from the rooftop brings elegance to the township despite the midfielders being no longer accommodated in the heart of the Ghetto from where they blossomed, launched and established their careers.
The business partners perhaps are living by the principle do not forget where you came from, your roots and or where your umbilical code is buried. Both midfielders were born and grew up in Soweto and by coming back to Soweto “it makes business sense”.
Tshabalala currently plays in Turkey playing for Super League side Büyükşehir Belediye Erzurumspor whilst Letsholonyane has remained local is lekker turning out for Highlands Park FC.
The business might seem awkward for elite sportsmen but it is good preparation for life beyond the football pitch same as the likes of Vincent Kompany, Lionel Messi and Clarence Seedorf who own restaurants that also serve cocktails.
By Gerald Dandah
