Chapter 3: Seeds, Hustlers, and Entrepreneurs
Chapter 3: Seeds, Hustlers, and Entrepreneurs
As the evening wore on and the conversation deepened, Thabo felt a surge of inspiration. He turned to his father, ready to share what had been bubbling inside him.
“Dad, I need to tell you about my dreams. I don’t just want to go to university; I want to be great. I want my surname, Molaba, to be known for something significant. I believe that wealth isn’t just about money; it’s about impact—leaving a legacy that resonates beyond my lifetime.”
Duncan looked at his son with interest, eager to hear more.
Duncan: “That’s a bold ambition, Thabo. What do you envision?”
“Well, I’ve been thinking a lot about how our community views success. There’s this mentality that entrepreneurship is for white people, and we’re supposed to beg for jobs instead. But we’re free now! We shouldn’t feel limited by the past or let it dictate our future.”
He paused for a moment, letting his words sink in.
“I often think about this analogy that Vusi Thembekwayo shared. He said that black people are like dogs or chickens tied to a pole. When they’re tied up, they draw a circle in the ground, marking their limits. Even when the leash is released, they don’t go beyond that line—they believe they can’t. But what they don’t realize is that they’re free to roam. That’s what’s happening with our youth today; they remain stuck in a victim mentality.”
Duncan: “I see what you mean. It’s a powerful metaphor. Breaking those mental barriers is crucial.”
“Exactly! I want to help change that narrative. I’ve started following Sadhguru, not because I want to adhere to any specific religion but because I’m seeking spirituality. I want to honor my masculinity and embrace the strengths that come with it. I want to show others that we can create our own paths, redefine success, and uplift our communities.”
Duncan smiled, feeling a mix of pride and hope for his son’s future.
Duncan: “You have a vision, Thabo, and that’s the first step. Just remember that it won’t be easy. There will be challenges, but it’s how you face them that will define your journey.”
“I’m ready for it, Dad. I want to break the cycle and show others that we can be more than what society expects of us. I want to create opportunities—not just for myself, but for those around me.”
Their conversation shifted from aspirations to actionable steps, as Duncan encouraged Thabo to develop a plan for his dreams. They discussed the importance of mentorship, networking, and seeking knowledge from successful entrepreneurs who had overcome similar barriers.
Duncan: “It starts with the belief that you can achieve it. And remember, it’s not just about what you accomplish for yourself, but how you lift others as you rise.”
Thabo nodded, feeling invigorated by his father’s support. Together, they envisioned a future where the Molaba name would become synonymous with resilience, innovation, and positive change.
As the evening unfolded, Thabo leaned in closer, his passion igniting the air between them.
“Dad, many young black people today have the gift of having nothing to lose. They’re in a position where they could take risks and explore their potential, but the problem is they’re often too focused on survival. They become hustlers, chasing immediate gains rather than thinking long-term.”
Duncan: “That’s a harsh reality, Thabo. Survival mode can trap people.”
“Exactly! The ones who worry too much about their next meal often end up eating their seeds—squandering the very resources that could help them grow. Like Sibonisi Mtshali says, ‘Don’t eat your seeds; we plant them to get the honor of eating hundreds of fruits.’ It’s all about patience and investment, but too many of us don’t see that.”
His father nodded, appreciating the wisdom in Thabo’s words, but a hint of concern began to etch his features.
Duncan: “That’s true. Investing in yourself takes time and sacrifice. But you have to be careful; it’s a fine line between hustling for immediate survival and building a sustainable future.”
“I know, but I feel like I can do it on my own. If I’m not given the support I need, I’ll just have to make my own way.”
Duncan: “What do you mean by that?”
Thabo hesitated for a moment, grappling with the weight of his ambitions against the fears of dependence.
“I mean, I want to start working now. I don’t want to wait for permission or resources to pursue my dreams. If I don’t take action, I’ll just be another young person stuck in a cycle of waiting for support that may never come.”
A tension filled the air, as Duncan felt the clash between nurturing his son’s independence and guiding him through the complexities of financial responsibility.
Duncan: “Thabo, I understand your drive, but you have to recognize the value of strategic support. Remember the tripod analogy? It’s not just about putting more bricks on a leg; it’s about knowing which leg needs support at the right time. You can't rush into something without a plan.”
“But what if I can’t wait? What if I miss my chance? The world won’t wait for me to figure it all out.”
The words hung in the air, the conflict palpable. Thabo’s resolve collided with Duncan’s cautious optimism, creating a palpable tension. Just as the silence stretched on, Duncan leaned back, taking a deep breath as an economist and father.
Duncan: “Let’s take a moment. I hear you. But remember, the decisions you make now will shape your future. I’m here to guide you, not to hold you back.”
With this, they stood at a crossroads, both aware of the challenges ahead.