Itumeleng Mothibeli, Managing Director Vukile Southern Africa
Vukile Property Fund is transforming South Africa’s retail property sector by prioritising community engagement. Through initiatives like the Vukile Retail Academy and transparent community forums, Vukile integrates social responsibility with sustainable growth.
Community-centric model
By hiring locally and reflecting local culture in its management teams, Vukile ensures its retail centres resonate with the communities they serve. Managing Director Itumeleng Mothibeli states, “At Vukile, we focus on being part of the places we serve. This isn’t just business; it’s about engaging authentically with people to understand their needs.”
Aligned vision and mission
Vukile’s success is driven by a clear mission to understand and serve shoppers. By tailoring tenant mixes to local needs, Vukile fosters customer loyalty, ensuring sustainable growth for tenants and investors. Mothibeli emphasizes, “Our people-first approach ensures that tenants provide what communities need.”
Community forums and CSI
Vukile engages local Community Forums, empowering residents to shape corporate social investment (CSI) projects. In Dobsonville, forums address drug-related issues, while Phoenix supports education through bursaries. Mothibeli notes, “These forums build trust and long-term partnerships, enhancing the community fabric.”
Supporting local entrepreneurs
Vukile promotes local entrepreneurship through an innovative kiosk model. These kiosks feature diverse services and offer secure spaces for informal traders to transition to formal retail, contributing to community vibrancy. Mothibeli explains, “This model allows informal traders to thrive and cater to local preferences.”
The Retail Academy
The Vukile Retail Academy connects informal traders with formal retail, providing mentorship and rent-free trading for the first year. Mothibeli states, “We lower barriers for small businesses, ensuring a mutually beneficial relationship as they grow.”
Reflecting heritage through design
Vukile’s commitment to community heritage extends to mall design. For instance, the Basotho hat is featured in Maluti Crescent’s lighting, while another centre honours local boxing champions. These design elements ensure retail spaces reflect the history and culture of their communities.
Driving sustainable change
Through initiatives like a women’s empowerment campaign with Action Breaks Silence and the Retail Academy, Vukile drives social change in underserved communities. Mothibeli highlights the importance of community feedback: “When members feel acknowledged and supported, that’s what truly matters.”
Building trust through authenticity
“Vukile’s essence is about people and communities,” Mothibeli concludes. “By listening and delivering transparently, we build trust, forming the foundation of our success and legacy.”