Victor Machaba, Founder and Director of IMD Upholstery, at work.
By Simon Makgoga
As we celebrate Men’s Month, let’s take our hats off to real men who live by the law and empower youth with skills and jobs.
Victor Machaba is one of them.
He champions humanity daily and strengthens our economy with his craft.
Raphelani Mathegu of IMD Upholstery knits belts at his machine.
Known fondly as Tatane International, Victor is an upholsterer of note.
He masters home and car interiors, turning them into well-appointed, eye-catching spaces.
For over two incredible decades, Tatane has been at the top of his game.
Makhosazana Nkosi, Senior Manager at IMD Upholstery, processes orders.
Like many boys, he loved taking things apart and fixing what was torn.
He says his love for upholstery grew gradually, like a tree planted by the water.
Today this skilled craftsman runs IMD Upholstery and Motor Trim from Block IA, Soshanguve.
With creativity oozing from his pores, Tatane specializes in sofas, dining chairs, headboards and more.
He’s also a skilled carpenter, building and installing custom furniture.
Tatane earned his Upholstery Diploma at FET College in Venda in 2001, then spent five years honing his craft at a furniture company.
Now his business employs 10 locals and offers free 3-month training to upholstery students.
Rapelani Mathegu, Tatane’s nephew, is one of his most energetic employees trained by his hardworking, visionary uncle 15 years ago. Makhosazana Nkosi serves as senior manager.
Many of Tatane’s trainees have gone on to open their own workshops, continuing to transfer practical skills to youth from vocational institutions.
IMD services cover Gauteng, North West and Mpumalanga. Tatane lives by this: “To succeed in life, demonstrate unyielding passion and hard work.
These are the pillars of prosperity.”
*Tatane International proves it Tatane rebuilds homes restores dignity raises the next generation*
Transform your space with Tatane’s expert touch Contact 079 576 0515
IMD Upholstery and Motor Trim — Crafting excellence one seat at a time.
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