From small beginnings to big success
When Telisha Johnstone, the founder of The Wishing Tree, applied to exhibit at The Rand Show 2024, she took a leap of faith. Having just launched her business and with only a handful of small market appearances, she was eager to showcase at the show.
Reflecting on her experience, Telisha shares, "It really was a wonderful experience—it helped me understand my target market and my brand impact, and the experience was incredible."
The Wishing Tree's presence at The Rand Show was nothing short of a triumph. Telisha's stand not only garnered attention from visitors but also earned the SME prize for Best Stand, a significant achievement for a new business. "The biggest highlight, of course, was being awarded the prize for the best stand! It was such a humbling and proud moment, and I'm so grateful to both The Rand Show and ABSA!" says Telisha.
Beyond the award, the exposure Telisha gained from the expo was instrumental in kickstarting her brand's growth. With direct interaction with visitors, she gathered valuable feedback that helped refine her products and packaging. She explains, "The feedback from clients and fellow exhibitors helped me refine The Wishing Tree's look and feel, and better understand the target market for my products." This insight led to updates in branding and the addition of new products to her line.
The Rand Show not only boosted The Wishing Tree's visibility but also opened new opportunities for the business. Telisha was invited to participate in a series of exclusive markets and successfully launched her online shop. "The experience and success at the Rand Show also opened other doors for me.”
"The experience and the award showed me that I could make my dream a reality and that my little business had massive potential to grow." With a vision for expansion, Telisha continues to build on the momentum created, a testament to this iconic expo's power in helping small to big business businesses grow.
The show was also successful for Iyathile Events, which organises SME markets. Sibusiso Mlilo, founder of Iyathile Events, reflects on the impact the event had on his business: "The Rand Show has assisted us in connecting SMEs with customers from different parts of the province, as well as corporates such as Absa, who have engaged with them and equipped them with the necessary skills and tools to advance their businesses even after the show."
Iyathile Events facilitated a shared space for SMEs in Hall 7, a move that resulted in them winning the Best Pavilion Award for two consecutive years. Sibusiso proudly shares, "By helping different SMEs book and share the space at our pavilion, we've been able to foster collaboration and growth."
For Sibusiso, the most rewarding aspect of the Rand Show is the opportunity for small businesses to build relationships that extend beyond the event: "The Rand Show is a stage that all local small businesses who are looking to network and grow should use. You're part of it, and you make relationships that go beyond the show and help scale your business."
About the Rand Show:
The Rand Show has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s expo scene for 130 years. It offers businesses the perfect platform to showcase their products and services to a wide audience, from industry professionals to everyday consumers. The 2025 edition promises to be even bigger and better, featuring entertainment, innovation, and a celebration of South African enterprise.
