Near the bottom of Russell Road, opposite the historic graveyard, is a car wash. We have noticed that whatever the time of day, they always seem to be busy. 
They handwash the cars, and do a very thorough and reasonably priced job, which probably explains their popularity. 
An enterprising gentleman, clearly an immigrant from the North, has set up a coffee shop in the top room over the waiting room, to serve those waiting for their cars to be done. He does everything himself, he was washing tablecloths when I went in (you can see them hanging on the fence to the right.) He made my coffee (instant coffee with creamer, not milk), and went off to buy a loaf of bread when I ordered a toasted tomato sandwich. It is pretty rustic, but I quite enjoyed the out of Africa ambience as I waited for my car to be transformed.
these are such interesting scenes and i like very much the description of the owner and his business style (i also liked the sound of a toasted tomato sandwich!
ReplyDeleteIt still looks the same as the last time that I saw it! Is Aberdeens still next door?
ReplyDeleteSakiwi, Yes, that's the one! How long ago were you here?
ReplyDeleteHi Sam! I left PE for NZ in May 2007!
ReplyDeletei have been fortunate enough to know the owner of the car wash since he opened business. yes, he is from nigeria. he came to S.A. about 20 years ago with nothing but the clothes on his back and determination to make a success. started out as a security guard (for which he had to go to the gym - to build muscle as his physique was too small for security work).He is only employing unemployed south african citizens and has recently secured many big contracts in and around the city. An excellent role model for many of our own.
ReplyDeletethanks for the input, office et al.... an inspiring story! I'll be back there because they really go the extra mile, and I like to support these kind of enterprising people. (That is why I make a point of buying from the Zim craftsmen when possible too, they are so creative and positive despite their circumstances, I really think they deserve a break!)
ReplyDeleteI have never been it, but it always catches my eye. It seems especially busy and festive early Sunday mornings.
ReplyDeleteGotta love the African spirit of enterprise... but as one previous commenter said it's a lesson in the virtue of hard work that's lost on some of our OWN people!
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