Soweto Resident Celebrates R50 000 Spaza Shop Makeover Win

Nineteen-year-old cabin crew student Charity Mutavhatshindi from Chiawelo, Soweto, is still beaming with excitement after her family’s spaza shop received a R50 000 makeover courtesy of Knorrox, as part of the brand’s Biiig Wins competition earlier this year.

Recalling the unforgettable moment she got the call, Charity says,

“I’ll never forget that day. When Knorrox called to tell me I’d won, I immediately phoned my mom and dad — but they thought I was joking!”

The prize included a complete refurbishment of the shop — from new shelves and flooring to freshly painted interior and exterior walls.

“Before the makeover, the roof was leaking and the floors were badly damaged,” she explains. “Now, everything looks brand new, and I’ve noticed a big increase in customers compared to earlier this year.”

The Biiig Wins campaign also rewarded 200 consumers with R5 000 each and 2 000 others with airtime vouchers, spreading the brand’s message of appreciation during tough economic times.

“We understand that consumers are under pressure in today’s economy,” says Thobeka Goba, Marketing Manager at Knorrox. “This campaign was our way of showing that we care and giving back to our loyal customers. We’re thrilled that the grand prize went to such a deserving family, and we hope to continue offering meaningful prizes with lasting impact.”

Spaza shops play a vital role in South Africa’s township economies, with over 150 000 in operation nationwide, according to Trade Intelligence.

Charity hopes her family’s story inspires others to consider entrepreneurship as a way forward.

“I’m following in my dad’s footsteps because jobs are so scarce,” she says. “Running a spaza shop is a great way to create income. I encourage anyone thinking about starting a business to give it a try.”