Young Entrepreneurs Are Inspiring a Love of Reading in Fordsburg |
What started as a passion for books has grown into a small business that is encouraging literacy, entrepreneurship, and community spirit. |
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In an age where screens compete for almost everyone's attention, two young entrepreneurs from South Johannesburg are proving that books still have the power to bring people together.
Habiba Yousuf and Zainab Asif run Bookaholics, a bookstore at Oriental Plaza in Fordsburg that offers a wide range of titles for readers of all ages. From self-care books and children's stories to novels and puzzles, their goal is simple: help more people discover the joy of reading.
A Passion That Became a Business
The pair developed a love for books from an early age after growing up in homes where reading was encouraged. Instead of letting that passion remain a hobby, they decided to turn it into a business. Today, they balance their studies with running the bookstore, opening after school and on weekends, while continuing to grow their customer base.
Their journey shows that entrepreneurship can begin with something as simple as sharing what you love.
Building a Community Around Books
Bookaholics is more than a place to buy books. The young owners also accept book donations and purchase pre-loved books from people looking to pass on their collections.
By giving books a second life, they help make reading more accessible while keeping a diverse selection on their shelves. It is a model that supports both sustainability and a culture of reading within the community.
More Than a Bookshop
South Africa continues to face significant literacy challenges, with many children struggling to read for meaning by the time they reach primary school. Every initiative that places more books into the hands of readers contributes to building stronger communities and lifelong learning.
Habiba and Zainab's story is also a reminder that entrepreneurship has no age limit. Small businesses often begin with an idea, dedication, and the willingness to start.
In a city built on ambition and resilience, their bookstore is creating more than customers, it is helping create future readers.
Before You Go
Bookstore: Bookaholics Location: Oriental Plaza, Fordsburg, Johannesburg What you'll find: Self-care books, children's books, novels, and puzzles Book donations and enquiries: 084 461 7845 Trading: Weekends and after school hours
Sometimes the biggest difference begins with a single book. Habiba and Zainab are showing that a love of reading can also become a way of investing in their community and inspiring others to do the same.
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