Babalwa Nqunqa

What does your company do?

Cleaning Consulting (Pty) Ltd is a South African-based commercial cleaning company committed to delivering professional, eco-friendly cleaning solutions to businesses and institutions. We specialise in high-quality, sustainable cleaning services while empowering and mentoring female founders in the cleaning industry. Through innovation, mentorship, and green practices, we aim to redefine the commercial cleaning landscape across Africa. Our vision is to be Africa’s leading force in eco-conscious commercial cleaning and a catalyst for women-led entrepreneurship in the cleaning industry. Mission: • To provide reliable, sustainable, and effective cleaning services that meet the highest industry standards. • To mentor and support women entrepreneurs through our Green Cleaning Startup program. • To innovate and promote the use of locally manufactured, eco-friendly cleaning products. • The To contribute to environmental protection and economic empowerment through sustainable practices and inclusive business models.

What is your biggest success?

Cleaning Consulting (Pty) Ltd’s biggest success has been the development and launch of the Green Cleaning Startup mentorship program — a first-of-its-kind initiative in South Africa focused on empowering female founders in the commercial cleaning industry. This program not only bridges the gap between sustainable cleaning practices and business ownership, but also fosters a new generation of eco-conscious entrepreneurs. The upcoming Green Cleaning Startup Imbizo 2025 is a direct result of this success, bringing together women leaders, funders, and industry experts to shape the future of green cleaning in Africa. Being recognised by the NYDA and granted the grant funding for our stock and equipment, and job creation.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

Our biggest hurdle has been access to funding and resources to scale the manufacturing of eco-friendly cleaning products and expand our mentorship initiatives. As a female-led, sustainability-focused business, navigating traditional funding channels has presented challenges—especially when advocating for green innovation in a sector often driven by cost over conscience. Despite this, we’ve remained resilient by building strong community partnerships, bootstrapping our programs, and staying committed to our mission of eco-conscious impact and female empowerment.