BOEKENHOUTHOEK – A 25-year-old woman from Boekenhouthoek in the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, Agreement Nokuthula Monareng-Sithole, has walked away with her first Mzansi Arts and Media Award (MAMA).
The sixth annual MAMA ceremony took place on April 26, 2025 at Temba Stadium in Hammanskraal. Sithole was nominated in the “Best Hustler of the Year” category, competing against 13 other nominees — and emerged victorious.
“I am truly humbled and grateful to be recognised as the ‘Best Hustler of the Year’. This award means everything to me because it validates the hard work, sacrifices, and determination I’ve put into building my businesses,” Sithole told Highveld Chronicle.
Her entrepreneurial journey began shortly after matriculating in 2018, when she started selling vetkoeks to pay school fees. Coming from a household that relied solely on her grandmother’s social grant, the small venture quickly became both a lifeline and the start of a dream.
In 2020, she launched AGs Laundromats, offering specialised services such as shoe washing. By 2021, she had expanded with Kwa MaMkhize’s Kitchen (formerly AGs Kota Eats), and later introduced AGs Luxury Hair, a full-service beauty studio.
Today, with three thriving businesses to her name, she has not only created employment but has also empowered local residents with skills and opportunities. “It’s moments like these that remind me why entrepreneurship is about more than just personal success — it’s about uplifting others and creating a positive impact,” she shared.
Despite facing financial challenges, moments of self-doubt, and juggling multiple responsibilities, she remained determined. “I’ve relied on resilience, adaptability, and guidance from mentors. Breaking down big problems into smaller steps and celebrating small wins has kept me going.”
She also credited her best friend as a major source of support. “She helped me stay focused, pushed me to take calculated risks, and celebrated my wins. At some point — and even now — she’s part of the motivation behind my hustle to create better lives for both of us,” she added.
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Sithole advised: “Entrepreneurship is not just about making money. It’s about creating impact, solving problems, and following your passion. If I can run multiple businesses at 25, so can you. The secret? Just start.”
The Mzansi Arts and Media Awards (MAMA) is an annual ceremony that honours and celebrates talented individuals in South Africa’s arts and media industry. It aims to recognise the diversity and vibrancy of local creative talents.
