This week, our grade 9 entrepreneurs traded textbooks for the aroma of fresh bread and the realities of running a business when they visited Da Buka Di Baka Bakery in an inspiring entrepreneurial outing. The group was warmly welcomed by owner Justin Maharaj, who founded the popular bakery in 2022. With more than 15 years of professional experience in South Africa’s top kitchens – including his former role as Executive Chef at the prestigious Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa – Justin gave the students an insider’s view of what it truly takes to build and sustain a successful culinary enterprise.
In a candid and engaging session held outside the working bakery, Justin shared his personal journey from humble beginnings to bakery owner. Growing up with limited resources, he credited hard work, unwavering dedication and a refusal to give up as the driving forces behind his achievements. He spoke openly about the tough realities of entrepreneurship: the challenges of accurate costing, managing debt, attracting loyal customers and keeping a business afloat in a competitive industry.
The visit was as delicious as it was educational. Our entrepreneurs were treated to fresh rolls (straight from the oven!) with boerewors, topped with homemade chakalaka, followed by irresistible snowballs for dessert – all produced on site by the very business they were learning about. The outing perfectly embodied Radley’s commitment to weaving entrepreneurship through every aspect of school life. By connecting entrepreneurs directly with local business owners who have turned passion into thriving enterprises.
Radley continues to show its young entrepreneurs that success is possible with resilience, creativity and determination. Moments like these bring our entrepreneurship programme to life and remind everyone why we love supporting local business heroes like Justin Maharaj. Radley School extends a heartfelt thank you to Justin and the entire team at Da Buka Di Baka for opening their doors and sharing their journey so generously. These real-world experiences continue to inspire the next generation of South African entrepreneurs.