South Africa is a country that is alive with possibility for those passionate about being their own bosses. Meet Taderera Mabvudzi and Mandla Dube, who are both Uber driver-partners that have one goal in common – to move South Africa to their rhythm. Both these driver-partners are passionate about their music and want to take the world by storm.
Taderera, moving riders the groove
Taderera Mabvudzi is a true testament that dreams can come true. “Shamie“, as he is well known in the Cape Town community, is a composer, songwriter, radio host and producer. From a young age, Taderera knew that his children would never have to worry about going to bed on an empty stomach like he did. The married father of three believes in living a life that is full of purpose, which is why he finds time to do motivational talks to the schools in his community about the importance of living an honest life.
From a young age, music has always been a part of Taderera’s life. Growing up, he was part of his school choir. Before using the Uber app, Taderera worked at a restaurant which meant long hours and no time time for music. In December 2015, Taderera started driving with Uber, which meant that he would have the flexibility to continue with his music and still earn a living. Fast forward to 2017, and Taderera has been nominated in the Cape Town Zimbabwe Excellence Awards 2017 and has shared the stage with African phenomenal musicians Oliver Mtukudzi and Berita.
Uber has enabled Taderera more than he imagined – due to driving some influential riders, he’s even managed to play at their events. “Networking is essential in building a career in the entertainment industry and can assist in keeping your brand relevant as well as consistent”, says Taderera.
Mandla rocks the decks
Mandla Dube is a vibrant DJ that started using the Uber app in May 2015 as he saw the opportunity to make money while still being able to pursue other personal interests, like DJing. “I love that I get to see various parts of Johannesburg while taking riders to their destinations, as well as meeting new people every day with different personalities”, says Mandla. While on his Uber trips Mandla also enjoys playing music and mixes for his riders.
Mandla started playing his mixes in 2008 and prior to playing at well-known venues, he played ‘underground’ for four years. He was inspired by top Dj’s like Vinni da Vinci, Christos and Oskido.Mandla looks up to these DJ heavyweights as they are just not DJ’s, but businessmen. Mandla has played at various places including African countries such as Botswana and Mozambique. He has also played in numerous South African cities including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria and Durban. He has played and is still playing at the following well-known venues; Vacca Matta at Monte Casino, Shisanyama in Centurion and Urban Tree in Sandton.
Taderera and Mandla are pure entrepreneurs that both believe that society should not define your success. They are both determined to define success on their own terms, in their own time all while following their musical dreams.
