Ekurhuleni Entrepreneur Charles Ndlovu Wins Small Business Award

Ekurhuleni Entrepreneur Charles Ndlovu Wins Small Business Award. Brakpan-born entrepreneur Charles Cyril Ndlovu has won the Small Business Category at the recent Artisans of Mzansi Competition, recognising his 12-year journey from electrician to business owner.

The competition, run by Allan Gray Makers, celebrates South African trade entrepreneurs who use their technical skills to create jobs and contribute to addressing poverty.

Ndlovu is the founder and owner of Boksburg-based CPR Holdings, a business operating in electrical work, construction and renewable energy. He said the award represents the hard work, lessons and experiences that have shaped his journey as both an artisan and entrepreneur.

“Winning is an incredibly meaningful moment for me because it represents the journey I have taken over the past 12 years,” Ndlovu said.

The recognition has also given him renewed confidence in the potential of CPR Holdings and its future plans.

Ndlovu said the award provides the company with greater visibility and credibility, while creating opportunities for strategic partnerships and new business opportunities.

CPR Holdings is looking to strengthen its operations and capacity as it pursues larger and more complex projects. Beyond construction and renewable energy, the company is exploring opportunities in logistics, environmental services, training and manufacturing.

Ndlovu said his vision extends beyond completing individual projects. He wants the business to build capabilities through investment in people, skills, systems, equipment and partnerships.

“We want to build capability. That means investing in people, developing skills, strengthening our systems, having the right tools and building strong partnerships,” he said.

He also hopes the recognition will encourage other artisans to consider entrepreneurship as a way of developing their technical skills into businesses.