The Cape Argus, in partnership with Cape Town Tourism, has introduced some of the fascinating characters of tourism every week, in their own voices. This is the last in the series.
Sabu Siyaka is the director of Ubizo Events & Tours. He calls himself a ‘Jack of all trades’ but he’s a master at many! He’s an energetic, enterprising man. His tourism business in Langa was built from scratch.
Cape Town - I am Sabu Siyaka. Only one person uses my full name – Siyabulela Siyaka – my mom, when I’m in trouble!
I have always been passionate about events and wanted to make that my career. In 2008 I was with some Student Representative Council members from UCT, when I was inspired to create a tour for students, introducing them to the richness in culture and heritage of Langa and Gugulethu.
I also do event staging as part of my business. When I started I didn’t even have a brochure or website, but did lots of research about tours to find out what visitors were looking for.
I wrote an essay on my business concept and sent it to the course directors at the International Education of Students organisation. I spent my own money on networking in the tourism industry.
I studied short courses so I could create a solid product.
What we do is take the students around the neighbourhoods and highlight places of cultural and historical significance as well as showcasing the area as a busy commercial hub.
The oldest township in South Africa, Langa, is full of stories about the people who have lived here and how the township has been part of the history of Cape Town. The students who come on tours often say that the experience goes way beyond their expectations.
The tour benefits eight other local businesses, such as a refreshments business, crafts business and the sangoma. I am always looking for authentic ways to improve what we have to offer and how this can benefit the community.
I like to show the relationship between religion and tradition, as these play a major role.
Most of us are Xhosa, and, like me, many of my friends went to the local Catholic primary school, but just next to the Catholic church is the veld area set aside for initiation, so you can see the contrast.
My mum and dad run Mzansi Restaurant in Langa where we either finish or start our tours with lunch. We’re partners, but we have to make it clear when we meet: is this a family meeting or a business meeting? If my mom asks me to do something for her and it’s actually not family time, I have to remind her, “Mom, this is the time for business”.
I have thousands of friends, so .when I’m not working we go to the traditional ceremonies on Saturdays and we go out together. I don’t compromise on time for friends and family.
Sports is big in our community.
There have been well-known soccer, cricket and rugby players associated with Langa, such as local cricketer Temba Bavuma and soccer player Thabo Mngomeni. It inspires young people to achieve.
There’s music, too: we have live entertainment when we have lunch together; music is part of life and it creates a great vibe when we’re sharing food and drinks. Having a refreshment helps connect us with the spirit of Ubuntu.
Cape Argus