Debbie Mdlongwa

Debbie Mdlongwa - Entrepreneur, Youth Advocate & Business Consultant

Debbie Mdlongwa is a dynamic 32-year-old entrepreneur and a passionate advocate for youth entrepreneurship and social impact. She is currently a student at the University of Johannesburg Business School, furthering her knowledge in business and leadership.

Debbie began her career in customer service before venturing into the food business in 2017, discovering her passion for baking and the culinary arts. She is the co-founder of Bana Ba Thari, trading as Dee's Kitchen, a food trailer business specializing in event catering for funerals, weddings, office functions, and private celebrations. Dee’s Kitchen also manufactures atchaar, with future expansion plans into sauces and ice cream manufacturing.

In addition to her entrepreneurial journey, Debbie works as a Business Consultant at the Mamelodi Business Hub under the EMS faculty at The University of Pretoria. She plays a vital role in supporting and mentoring entrepreneurs in the Mamelodi community, equipping them with the skills needed to transition from learning to earning. Managed the campus food garden where we planted different types of crops all year round.

Her business achievements include:

Catering for the Netball World Cup Fan Park in 2023 during the Netball World Cup in Cullinan, Pretoria.

Attending an Entrepreneurship Masterclass in Catering, cooking alongside renowned chefs Lebogang Tlokana (the Funny Chef) and Chef Mbombi at Kushinda Academy.

Being shortlisted for an interview for the Advancing Young Women Agribusiness Entrepreneurs and Innovators: Professional Fellows Program at Michigan State University.

Participating in the Youth Alliance in Leadership and Development in Africa (YALDA) I-Bootcamp.

Attended the Global Entrepreneurship Congress in 2024.

Beyond business, Debbie is deeply committed to social initiatives. She is an active member of the Labron Foundation, where she leads the Pad A Girl campaign—an initiative that collects sanitary pads and toiletries for underprivileged schoolgirls, ensuring they have access to essential hygiene products. Her dedication to community development reflects her belief in paying it forward and making a meaningful impact.

Debbie is also involved in sports development, coaching netball and managing teams at both regional and provincial levels. She previously managed the Spar Provincial Senior Team and catered for the Netball World Cup Fan Park. Her diverse skill set includes marketing, operations, strategic thinking, and leadership, all of which she applies to her entrepreneurial and mentorship efforts.

As she continues her journey, Debbie remains focused on growing her business, uplifting her community, and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.