Port Elizabeth TVET College proudly highlights the inspiring journey of one of its alumni, Buhle-Bemvelo Mbontsi, a passionate entrepreneur and founder of the food business EatWithMe.
Buhle-Bemvelo Mbontsi is originally from Lady Frere, Tshatshu Village. She grew up in Uitenhage and is currently based in Mthatha. She completed a Diploma in Hospitality and Catering in 2019 at Port Elizabeth TVET College, Russell Road Campus.
During her time at the college, she gained valuable knowledge, practical skills, and discipline that later helped shape her career and entrepreneurial journey. Her passion for food and creating meals that bring people together inspired her to pursue studies in the hospitality field.
While studying, she developed important skills such as time management, teamwork, creativity, consistency, and professionalism, all of which are essential in the food industry. Supportive lecturers also played an important role in her journey by encouraging students to believe in their abilities and work hard towards their goals.
Like many students, she experienced challenges during her studies. However, she remained focused and determined, reminding herself of her goals and working hard to achieve them. After completing her studies, Buhle-Bemvelo continued to develop her culinary skills and explore opportunities in the food industry. Her passion for cooking eventually led her to start her own business called EatWithMe, where she prepares homemade meals and food products such as sauces and other delicious items for her customers. Starting the business came with challenges, including limited resources, building a customer base, and marketing her products. Through dedication, hard work, and consistent promotion of her brand, she has continued to grow and improve her business.
According to Buhle-Bemvelo, studying at a TVET college provides students with practical, career-focused education and hands-on experience, which prepares them for both employment and entrepreneurship.
She encourages current students to believe in themselves, remain dedicated, and never stop learning. While starting a business can be challenging, passion, consistency, and perseverance can open many opportunities, such as networking with other entrepreneurs and gaining valuable skills through experience.
“If you remain passionate about what you do and stay committed to your goals, success will follow.”
