From Small Beginnings to Big Success

When Telisha Johnstone, founder of The Wishing Tree, decided to exhibit at The Rand Show 2024, she took a leap of faith. Having just launched her business and with only a few small market appearances under her belt, Telisha saw the opportunity to showcase her brand on a larger stage. Reflecting on the experience, she says, “It really was a wonderful experience—it helped me understand my target market and my brand impact, and the experience was incredible.”

A Breakthrough Moment

The Wishing Tree’s debut at The Rand Show proved to be a tremendous success. Telisha's stand captivated visitors and even earned the SME prize for Best Stand, a remarkable achievement for a new business. “The biggest highlight, of course, was being awarded the prize for the best stand!” Telisha shares. “It was such a humbling and proud moment, and I’m so grateful to both The Rand Show and ABSA!”

Transformative Exposure

Beyond the award, The Rand Show provided Telisha with invaluable exposure, fuelling her brand's growth. Engaging directly with visitors allowed her to gather essential feedback that refined The Wishing Tree’s products and packaging. “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,” she explains. The insights led to strategic updates in branding and the addition of new product offerings.

The experience also opened new opportunities for The Wishing Tree. Invitations to exclusive markets and the successful launch of her online shop were direct results of the connections made at the show. Telisha adds, “The experience and success at The Rand Show also opened other doors for me.”

A Platform for Dreams

Winning the SME award and the overall experience of The Rand Show gave Telisha the confidence to realise her vision. “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,” she says. With this momentum, she is focused on expanding her brand and turning small beginnings into big success.

Impact on SME Growth

Iyathile Events, organisers of SME markets, also found success at The Rand Show. Sibusiso Mlilo, founder of Iyathile Events, highlights the event's role in connecting SMEs with diverse customers and corporate partners like ABSA. “The Rand Show has assisted us in connecting SMEs with customers from different parts of the province, as well as corporates who have provided the tools to advance their businesses even after the show,” Sibusiso shares.

Collaborative Success

Iyathile Events facilitated a shared pavilion space for SMEs in Hall 7, earning them the Best Pavilion Award for two consecutive years. “By helping different SMEs book and share the space at our pavilion, we’ve fostered collaboration and growth,” says Sibusiso. The show’s most rewarding aspect, he adds, is the lasting relationships it helps create: “The Rand Show is a stage for local small businesses looking to network and grow. You’re part of it, and you make relationships that go beyond the show, helping scale your business.”

About The Rand Show

The Rand Show has been a vital part of South Africa’s expo landscape for 130 years, providing businesses with a unique platform to showcase their products to a diverse audience, from industry professionals to everyday consumers. The 2025 edition promises to be even more spectacular, celebrating South African enterprise with entertainment, innovation, and business opportunities.

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Company Name: The Rand ShowWebsite: www.randshow.co.za

Total Words: 617

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From Small Beginnings to Big SuccessDiscover how The Rand Show helps small businesses like The Wishing Tree and Iyathile Events achieve their dreams and connect with new opportunities!

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