NHLAZATSHE – For Lorraine Mbokane, entrepreneurship is about more than building successful businesses. It is about creating opportunities, contributing to her community and laying the foundation for a legacy that can benefit future generations.
An entrepreneur, philanthropist and founder and director of several construction companies, Mbokane is also the founder of Silver Park Resort in Nhlazatshe, Mpumalanga.
Her journey has been shaped by faith, determination and a strong belief in the power of business to create opportunities and contribute to local economic development.
Mbokane says her decision to pursue entrepreneurship was driven by a desire to build something of her own while creating opportunities for others.
“I wanted to build businesses that align with my calling and create jobs within my community,” she says.
It was this vision that eventually led to the establishment of Silver Park Resort.
Mbokane noticed a need for a safe and enjoyable recreational space where families and children could spend time together. She responded by turning that need into an opportunity to create a destination where people could relax, celebrate special occasions and make lasting memories.
For her, however, the resort represents more than a business.
“It is a dream that became a reality and a symbol of hope, growth and community development,” she says.
Silver Park Resort has also become part of Mbokane’s broader vision of using business to contribute to the local economy.
The resort employs about eight people during off-peak periods, with the number increasing to as many as 25 during peak seasons. It also supports local suppliers, service providers and small businesses.
For Mbokane, the impact of the resort is reflected not only in its operations, but also in the people who benefit from its existence. Seeing families enjoy the resort and knowing that employees are able to provide for their families are among the aspects of entrepreneurship she finds most rewarding.
Her efforts have also received recognition. In 2024, Silver Park Resort received the Best in Tourism Award at the Sunrise Excellence Awards, an achievement she says affirmed the hard work and dedication invested in developing the business.
Mbokane believes tourism and hospitality offer significant opportunities for women, particularly in entrepreneurship, accommodation, catering, event management and other tourism-related services.
She believes women have an important role to play in the growth of the sector through creativity, innovation and strong leadership.
Mbokane’s journey has not been without challenges. As a woman in business, she has had to prove her capabilities while dealing with financial difficulties and construction-related obstacles.
Running several businesses while balancing family and community responsibilities has also required considerable commitment. Rather than allowing these challenges to discourage her, Mbokane says they have strengthened her resilience.
She credits her faith, prayer, determination and hard work for helping her navigate difficult periods.
“Challenges have taught me patience, perseverance and strength,” she says.
Mbokane believes entrepreneurs must remain willing to learn, adapt and reassess when circumstances change. For her, setbacks are not a reason to abandon a vision, but an opportunity to grow and become better equipped to deal with future challenges.
As a woman entrepreneur, Mbokane believes success should create opportunities for others and inspire those who are following behind.
She encourages young women who want to enter business to start with what they have rather than waiting for perfect conditions.
“Start with what you have and where you are,” she advises.
She also encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to work hard, continue learning, build strong networks and remain focused on their goals. According to Mbokane, success requires patience and perseverance because building a sustainable business takes time.
For Mbokane, Women’s Month is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while remembering those who fought for equality and greater opportunities. She believes the month should also be used to encourage the next generation of women leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs to pursue their ambitions with confidence.
Being a woman entrepreneur, she says, means having the courage to follow one’s dreams, overcome barriers and create opportunities for others.
Her motivation comes from seeing the impact of her work – from employees supporting their families to visitors enjoying a space created with the community in mind.
Ultimately, Mbokane’s journey is about turning a vision into something that creates lasting value. Her message to women across South Africa is simple:
“Never give up on your dreams. Believe in yourself, trust your abilities and keep moving forward despite challenges.”
For Mbokane, the journey continues, not only to grow her businesses, but to build a legacy that extends beyond her own success.
