Ikhala 24th Anniversary

From Overalls to Ownership: How Titus Cetywayo Built a Fleet Business in Komani

In the heart of KwaMlungisi, Komani, a young man who once spent just nine months at Ikhala TVET College is today building a name for himself in the transport and automotive industry.

Titus Cetywayo, the youngest of three boys, began his journey at Ikhala’s Ezibeleni Engineering Campus, where he completed his N3 in Mechanical Engineering. Although his time at the College was brief, it laid the technical foundation that would shape his future.

Like many TVET graduates, Titus faced a major hurdle after completing his studies, the challenge of securing workplace placement. After persistent effort, he secured an apprenticeship with Public Works, where he qualified as a diesel mechanic. Determined to grow beyond the workshop floor, he went on to obtain additional qualifications in Occupational Health and Safety and Business Management, and later became a registered facilitator, assessor, and moderator.

This combination of technical expertise and business acumen became the launchpad for his entrepreneurial journey.

Today, Titus leads a growing group of interconnected businesses operating between Komani and Germiston. His flagship company, Komani Automotive, specialises in fleet management and has secured contracts with major clients including Twizza, AfriSam, and WesBank, as well as government work. The business has also come full circle, now serving as an official workplace partner for Ikhala TVET College, providing practical training opportunities for mechanical engineering students.

Building on this foundation, Titus expanded into logistics through Street Vibes Logistics, offering haulage and tautliner services, supported by Street Vibes Garage, which focuses on heavy-duty truck and trailer repairs. A warehouse operation in Germiston further strengthens the logistics arm of the business.

While his business footprint continues to grow, Titus remains grounded in a simple but powerful belief:

“Money isn’t always in wearing suits; in most instances, there’s more in overalls.”

This philosophy reflects not only his personal journey but also the broader value of technical and vocational skills in driving economic participation and self-reliance.

Titus openly acknowledges the role that industry partnerships have played in his growth, particularly the support from Twizza, which he credits with elevating his business to new levels.

Beyond business success, he is committed to giving back. Through corporate social responsibility initiatives and a formal partnership with Ikhala TVET College, he is helping to bridge the gap he once faced by creating pathways for students to gain workplace experience and build sustainable careers.

For Titus Cetywayo, success is not just measured in contracts or expansion, it is reflected in the opportunities he creates for others.

From overalls to ownership, his journey stands as a powerful reminder that skills, persistence, and purpose can transform not only individual lives, but entire communities.