“At home, we always planted vegetables for our own use, and over time I developed a love for working with plants, soil, and creating beautiful, productive spaces. I chose a career in agriculture because it is something I grew up and connected with deeply. Agriculture, especially through horticulture and landscaping, allows me to contribute to food security while also transforming outdoor environments in a sustainable way,” she shares.
Today she still runs the business, Beauro Landscapes, which she started in 2016.
She is not only managing a business, but is also studying. She obtained a National Diploma in Horticulture through Unisa and is currently studying Human Resource Management. In addition, she is also producing seasonal vegetables like spinach, green peppers, tomatoes, carrots, and herbs.
“The main focus of my business is sustainable landscaping and horticulture. We aim to create beautiful outdoor spaces while promoting food security through vegetable gardening. But I also work with turf grass for landscaping projects and am gradually expanding into sustainable gardening kits and indigenous plants,” she explains. 
The services her business provides include landscaping, fresh produce supply, and garden consultations. In the future, Ndlovu has plans to expand even more into turf grass maintenance and the control of alien invasive plants.
Her customers include homeowners looking to transform their outdoor spaces through landscaping and garden consultations.
“As we grow, we also aim to partner with local municipalities and sports facilities that require long-term turf management and eco-conscious outdoor maintenance.”
Some of her current clients include:
- Community members within the area who value access to fresh, homegrown produce and are interested in food gardens for personal or household use.
- Property developers, lodges, and schools seeking sustainable landscaping and lawn maintenance solutions, especially in areas needing turf grass or sports field upkeep.
- Environmentally conscious clients interested in removing alien invasive plants and restoring natural biodiversity.
Marketing
At Beauro Landscapes, products and services are marketed through various channels, including:
- Word of mouth and referrals from satisfied clients;
- Social media, especially on Instagram where gardening tips, before-and-after transformations, and photographs of seasonal produce are shared under the hashtag #growyours;
- Local networking and relationships by collaborating with nurseries, street vendors, and community spaces to create visibility;
- They also rely on face-to-face marketing and consultations, especially when doing garden consultations or when engaging with people who show interest in their work.
“We are still growing our business, so although our marketing is mostly on a grassroots-level, we understand that it is important and therefore we try to keep it intentional and personal. As the business grows, we hope to invest more into broader digital marketing, branding, and signage,” Ndlovu says.
The fact that her business allows her to connect both with people and nature is one of the drivers that make her persevere.
“Beauro Landscapes gives me the opportunity to transform spaces, restore the environment, and help people grow their own food, [which is] something that brings both beauty and purpose.”
She adds that it also allows her to be creative while solving real problems like food insecurity and lack of green spaces in the community.
“Seeing a garden come to life or a client smile after a successful consultation reminds me of why I started. To me it is more than just business; it is my passion, and I know what I do has an impact in people’s lives and in the community.”
Challenges
Small businesses often struggle to overcome challenges and Beauro Landscapes is no exception. One of the main challenges include the limited space from where the business operates, as well as a lack of proper infrastructure, such as fencing to protect crops from predators.
“Although we do a great deal of marketing, reaching a wider audience for my landscaping services is also a challenge, especially without enough storage space and transport to take on bigger projects,” she adds.
Another challenge the business faces is financial constraints.
These challenges, however, do not prevent Ndlovu from dreaming about expanding her business.
“My dream is to grow Beauro Landscapes into a trusted name in sustainable landscaping and horticulture, known for helping communities improve their food security and outdoor environments.”
She also wishes to create jobs and opportunities in the community, which will only be possible if she expands her operation.
The Metropolitan Collective Shapers Programme
Ndlovu learnt about the Metropolitan Collective Shapers Programme through a close friend who recommended it to her. After researching the initiative, she realised that her business could benefit from participation, and she decided to apply.
“The programme’s focus on youth entrepreneurship and support for agriculture in KwaZulu-Natal resonated with my goals and values. [I was also interested] because I wanted to grow my business with the right support and guidance,” she says.
She says that the programme offered valuable training, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
“I am confident that the things I was exposed to will help me develop my business into a sustainable and impactful enterprise.
“Taking part in the Metropolitan Collective Shapers programme was a game-changer for me. It helped me to look at my business from a more strategic and structured perspective. I learned how to refine my business model, think critically about my market, and communicate my values clearly.”
She adds that the programme pushed her out of her comfort zone.
“Taking part helped me grow in confidence as a business owner. I also made valuable connections with mentors and other like-minded entrepreneurs who share the same passion for making a difference in our communities.
“But, most importantly, it reignited my belief in the impact my business can make, [and] and gave me tools I can keep applying even after the programme ends.”
According to her, she enjoyed the information on business models most, as these gave her a better understanding and insight into her own business.
“It showed me how to align my vision with practical steps and challenged me to analyse my customers, our value proposition, and formulate long-term goals.”
She further says that the programme helped her with planning, strategy, and the positioning of her business on the market.
“The support and mentorship boosted my confidence, and I now have clearer direction and tools to run my business more professionally.
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have been part of the Metropolitan Collective Shapers programme. It came at a time when I needed guidance and structure, and the insights I gained is extremely valuable. I am leaving the programme more confident in myself, more focused business-wise, and hopeful about the future.”
