While many South Africans leave home in search of opportunities abroad, Nomzamo Steven chose a different route.
Based in Germany for work, she kept her ties to South Africa alive by starting Mzansi Bread, a bakery in Motherwell, Gqeberha, which she co-runs with her cousin, Zameka Beauty Mqokeli.
“At Mzansi Bread, we celebrate tradition, bread, and community. Each loaf tells its own story. Amagwinya represent resilience and comfort, dombolo speaks of family and stretching meals so everyone can eat, while isonka sombhako symbolises patience, love, and nourishment. Ujeqe brings togetherness at gatherings, and rostile connects us to braai culture, unity, and sharing around the fire,” said Steven.
For her, bread is heritage and nostalgia.
“No matter where I live, South Africa is home. Our breads remind us of family, ubuntu, and resilience. I didn’t want those traditions to fade. Through Mzansi Bread, we can preserve culture, create opportunities, and keep my connection to home alive.”
Launched in 2025, the bakery supplies local shisa nyamas and food outlets, and has already created jobs — including one for Mqokeli. “Many people with relatives abroad receive money.
Steven gave me something bigger: the chance to build a future. It shows the power of sisterhood, because across borders she lifted me up and trusted me to carry her dream,” said Mqokeli, who manages day-to-day operations.
Steven oversees bookkeeping and marketing from Germany.
The business began modestly in their aunt’s kitchen, with small equipment and limited space.
“It hasn’t been easy, but step by step we are building something meaningful,” Steven said.
Mzansi Bread also gives back through its Morning Fix programme, which provides sandwiches to children in need.
Heritage Month in September resonates strongly with Steven, as South Africans celebrate diverse traditions and collective identity.
“Even though I am far away, my heart remains South African. Through business, culture, and family, we can make a difference at home.”
Looking ahead, Steven hopes to grow Mzansi Bread into a household name across the country, and eventually abroad.
“I want our breads available at airports, restaurants, shisa nyamas, retail shops, and in communities, so both South Africans and tourists can experience them. I’ve already introduced our bread to my German friends.”
Description: Mzansi Bread, a bakery in Motherwell co-founded by cousins Nomzamo Steven and Zameka Beauty Mqokeli, is reviving South African traditions while creating jobs and giving back to the community.
Editor’s Note: Mzansi Bread is more than a bakery — it is a bridge between South Africans at home and those abroad. At a time when many skilled workers leave the country, this story shows how heritage, culture, and entrepreneurship can sustain communities and create opportunities. It highlights the role of small businesses in job creation, the power of sisterhood across borders, and the importance of preserving traditions for future generations.
Editor: Thato Mahlangu
Project Manager: Do4SA
