#WIB with Sarah Makoko, Managing Director of EMPRUV -

Entrepreneurship often begins with recognising potential where others see routine. For the Empruv owner, taking over the business in 2022 was more than a change in ownership; it was an opportunity to transform an established cleaning company into a purpose-driven brand focused on creating cleaner, healthier spaces while delivering exceptional service and lasting value to clients.

1. What inspired you to start your business, and what opportunity did you see in the market?

Although Empruv was established in 2008, I took ownership of the business in 2022 after working closely with the previous owners and helping manage their bookkeeping. I saw more than just a cleaning company; I saw the potential to build a brand that improves people’s lives through cleaner, healthier environments.

The opportunity was clear. Many cleaning companies competed on price, but few focused on professionalism, customer experience, innovation, and long-term relationships. My vision was to reposition Empruv as a trusted service provider that delivers quality while creating employment and empowering people through meaningful work.

2. What were the biggest hurdles you faced during your early growth journey?

One of the greatest challenges was rebuilding the business after losing its only client. Operations came to a standstill, and I had to make the difficult decision to pause the business while I developed a sustainable strategy.

Access to funding has also been one of the biggest obstacles. Growing a service-based business requires investment in equipment, marketing, technology, and people. Despite these challenges, I remained committed to rebuilding Empruv from the ground up, proving that resilience and consistency can overcome setbacks.

3. Which business decision has had the greatest impact on your company’s success?

The most impactful decision was choosing to transform Empruv from a traditional cleaning company into a modern brand focused on innovation, education, and customer value. We have invested in building a stronger digital presence, strengthening our internal systems, and creating a company culture centred around continuous improvement. Our philosophy, “Emproving to Empower,” influences everything we do, from how we serve clients to how we develop our team.

4. How have you navigated periods of uncertainty or economic pressure?

I’ve learned that uncertainty is part of entrepreneurship. During difficult periods, I focused on controlling what I could, improving our service quality, building stronger client relationships, managing costs responsibly, and remaining adaptable.

Instead of seeing challenges as failures, I viewed them as opportunities to refine the business. Every setback has strengthened my leadership and reinforced the importance of resilience, patience, and long-term thinking.

5. What role has innovation played in helping your business remain competitive?

Innovation has become one of Empruv’s greatest strengths. We’ve embraced eco-friendly cleaning solutions, improved our operational systems, and expanded our focus beyond cleaning to wellness, education, and digital engagement.

Our long-term vision is to become a digitally driven facilities and lifestyle brand that not only provides exceptional cleaning services but also educates and empowers communities through valuable content and innovative solutions.

6. Looking back, what would you do differently if you were starting again?

I would invest earlier in marketing, branding, and technology. I also would have built stronger systems from the beginning rather than trying to manage everything. Another lesson has been the importance of surrounding yourself with mentors, strategic partners, and people who challenge you to think bigger. Entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be a journey you walk alone.

7. What qualities do you believe every successful entrepreneur needs today?

Resilience is essential because every business will face challenges. Adaptability is equally as important in a rapidly changing business environment. Beyond that, entrepreneurs need integrity, emotional intelligence, financial discipline, and a willingness to keep learning. Success isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about remaining curious, listening to your customers, and continually improving.

8. What advice would you offer women considering launching or growing their own businesses?

Start before you feel completely ready. There will never be a perfect time, and confidence often comes through taking action rather than waiting for certainty. Believe in your vision, invest in learning, build genuine relationships, and don’t allow fear to define your future.

Every successful entrepreneur starts somewhere. Your journey may not be easy, but your resilience, authenticity, and determination can create opportunities not only for yourself but also for others. When women succeed in business, they don’t just build companies; they build stronger communities and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Short Bio

Sarah Makoko is the Founder and Managing Director of Empruv (Pty) Ltd, a Johannesburg-based cleaning and facilities services company committed to delivering professional, sustainable, and customer-focused solutions. Guided by the philosophy “Emproving to Empower,” Sarah is passionate about building businesses that create employment, promote healthier environments, and inspire innovation. Through resilience, purpose-driven leadership, and a vision for digital transformation, she continues to position Empruv as a trusted partner in improving homes, workplaces, and communities.