Sheldon Tatchell, Founder of Legends Barber, and Nompumelelo Madubedube, Director at The San Hair, have trimmed away the competition in the 36th annual Business Partners Limited Entrepreneur of the Year® awards –edging out over 600 entrants to claim their spot among the 16 finalists. Now, they are on the brink of securing one of South Africa’s most prestigious entrepreneurial accolades.
Tatchell is competing in the Small Business Entrepreneur category, which honours individuals managing businesses with an annual turnover of up to R30 million. Founded in 2011, Legends Barbershop started as a single-chair operation in Eldorado Park, Johannesburg. Tatchell, a self-taught barber, initially offered haircuts on a stoep. The barbershop’s precision cuts, and personalised experiences have quickly earned it a loyal and growing client base. The business has expanded rapidly via a franchising model and there are now over 60 stores across the African continent with Tatchell ensuring that each location upholds the brand’s reputation for excellence.
Madubedube has earned a place in the Medium Business Entrepreneur category, reserved for those steering businesses generating over R30 million in revenue. Under her leadership, The San Hair has evolved into a nationwide brand with 15 stores across the country, specialising in human hair products such as wigs, weaves, and extensions. The company has further expanded into the haircare market, launching a weave care. With Clicks now stocking The San Hair’s products, this marks a major milestone for the South African beauty industry.
“Sheldon and Nompumelelo’s achievements highlight the importance of entrepreneurship in transforming industries. We’re excited to see how their pioneering efforts will continue to shape the beauty sector and contribute to the broader economy,” says David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited.
On Thursday, 7 November 2024, the winners in each category—including the coveted Job Creator of the Year—will be unveiled at an awards ceremony in Gauteng. One standout business owner will also claim the title of South Africa’s overall Entrepreneur of the Year®.