Wandile's Story: An Entrepreneur Changing Lives in Soweto

Wandile Solombela is a fashion student-turned-entrepreneur who is using business to transform people's lives in Soweto, South Africa.

Wandile runs a business called Shwe Shwe Poppi Dolls (http://www.shweshwepoppis.com). The dolls are based on a series of original children's drawings produced by children at the African Children's Feeding Scheme in Soweto. They are made by women from the community.

South Africa's largest township still faces challenges including poverty, poor infrastructure, crime, and a mixed education system that means many Soweto residents struggle to achieve their potential.

Wandile started the Shwe Shwe Poppi business because he was asked to teach women sewing skills. As well as teaching a new skill, he wanted to help create sustainable employment for the community and boost self esteem. The dolls are now sold in the US, Europe and Africa.

Wandile is supported by the Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship in Johannesburg which gives budding young entrepreneurs the skills, opportunities and inspiration they need to launch and grow their businesses.

Find out more about Wandile's story and Virgin Unite: http://virg.in/wns

Find out more about the Branson Centre in South Africa: http://www.bransoncentre.org/SouthAfrica/home.html

Tell us your entrepreneurship story? Tell us at Virgin Unite: https://twitter.com/VirginUnite