This venture (e-Kasi Bucks) introduces a new form of currency and is taking the South African township business scene by storm. Used by local independent businesses, traders and their customers, the e-Kasi Bucks card allows communities and small businesses to actively work together to boost their business and economy.
It is fair to say that together with business partner Lucky Kgwadi, the duo is revolutionising the loyalty card concept and tapping into a previously overlooked market.
Student life on the banks of the Vaal River
Born and raised in Pretoria, where he matriculated from Mabopane Secondary School, young Edgar always knew that dedication would be his key to success. With a grant from the Old Mutual Educational Trust, he enrolled at the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus for a BCom Accounting degree while staying at the Vergelen men’s residence.
Edgar Lebelo: an entrepreneur with vision
Edgar’s accounting degree opened up a world of new possibilities. From 2013 to 2015 he worked for Barclays London as a fixed income cash commodities analyst before starting a venture that saw him reach national media exposure: e-Kasi Bucks.
e-Kasi Bucks is a consumer loyalty card with a difference since the cards are only used in townships within the Gauteng province. From salons to tuck shops and car washes, about 700 small businesses are already part of the business that launched a year ago.
A bright future awaits
The Midrand-based enterprise has already attracted a number of high-profile partners eager to join what promises to be a lucrative venture. According to Edgar all he does is guided by a sense of philanthropy and he is passionate about making life better as well as easier for those around him.
Edgar Lebelo, alumnus from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus, is the co-founder of the business venture, e-Kasi Bucks.
