My sister, Yamandosi, and I have always shared a special bond, one that blends our individual strengths into a powerful synergy.
Growing up, Yamandosi was always the one with a keen interest in technology.
She was fascinated by the latest gadgets, always wanting to know how they worked and how they could be used to make life easier. On the other hand, I’ve always been the curious mind—spending countless hours searching for information on the internet, diving deep into topics that piqued my interest, and never being satisfied until I fully understood something. This combination of our passions and personalities laid the foundation for what would eventually become OVICO.
The Birth of OVICO:
The idea for OVICO emerged from our shared realisation of the significant challenges faced by entrepreneurs in rural and township communities across South Africa. Despite the wealth of talent and entrepreneurial spirit in these areas, many local businesses struggled due to a lack of access to the digital tools and platforms that could help them reach a broader market and streamline their operations.
We recognized that while technology was revolutionizing business in urban centers, rural and township entrepreneurs were often left behind, unable to tap into the same opportunities. But we didn’t have any formal experience in tech.
What we did have was a relentless drive to learn and a determination to make a difference.
So, we dove into research.
We spent hours online, learning everything we could about app development, digital platforms, and the tech industry. We were committed to bringing our vision to life, and after months of hard work and countless late nights, OVICO was born.
OVICO’s Features and Benefits:
OVICO is an all-in-one platform designed to address the specific challenges faced by entrepreneurs in underserved communities.
Here’s how it works:
1. Comprehensive Service Booking:Â OVICO allows users to book services directly through the app, providing local businesses with an efficient way to manage appointments and increase their visibility. This feature is particularly valuable for service providers who might struggle with marketing and customer engagement in their local areas.
2. E-Commerce and Product Sales: Entrepreneurs can list their products on OVICO, giving them access to a wider customer base beyond their immediate community. This feature helps bridge the gap between local producers and consumers who might not have otherwise connected.
3. Food Ordering: For local eateries and food vendors, OVICO offers a platform where customers can browse menus and place orders for delivery or pickup. This not only brings modern convenience to customers but also helps food businesses expand their reach and grow their operations.
- Gugu Cele and Yamandosi Cele are co-founders of OVICO
