When Sandra 
Ramaite left the security of a stable job to pursue entrepreneurship full-time, she took a calculated risk that has since created jobs, supported households and contributed to a cleaner environment.
The Lichtenburg entrepreneur is the founder of CalSan Enviro Solutions, a waste management and recycling company that helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill sites while strengthening the local recycling economy.
Her journey demonstrates how innovative waste management solutions can create jobs, promote responsible environmental practices and support local economic growth.
Before establishing CalSan Enviro Solutions, Ramaite worked in the cement and environmental sectors, where she gained valuable experience in waste management, recycling and alternative fuels. While she remained employed, her husband and co-founder, Calton Ramaite, managed the business full-time.
For two years, Ramaite balanced her professional career while helping to build CalSan. As the business grew, she left formal employment to join the company full-time.
“It was a significant step because I was leaving the security of employment, but by then I had seen the potential of the business and the impact we could create together,” she said.
Waste management
The decision was driven by a shared vision of providing sustainable waste management solutions while creating economic opportunities for local communities.
One of the company’s biggest milestones was the establishment of a Recycling Buy-Back Centre in Lichtenburg in the North West. The facility provides a reliable market where waste reclaimers can sell recyclable materials such as plastic and paper, helping to improve recycling rates while generating income for many households.
“Behind every kilogram collected is a person, a household and an opportunity,” said Ramaite.
Today, CalSan employs 30 people, 60% of whom are young people. The Recycling Buy-Back Centre also enables about 150 waste reclaimers to earn an income by supplying recyclable materials.
“For us, this shows that waste management is not only about protecting the environment; it can also be a tool for economic participation, dignity and opportunity,” she said.
Like many entrepreneurs, Ramaite’s journey has not been without challenges. Limited access to funding, equipment and other resources tested her resilience and determination to grow the business.
Government support boosts growth
The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) has played an important role in supporting the growth of CalSan Enviro Solutions.
Through its Environment Services Unit, the department assisted the company with the registration of its waste management facilities in accordance with applicable norms and standards, ensuring compliance with environmental legislation and strengthening its operational credibility.
The department has also created market access opportunities through initiatives such as #MatlakalaKeZaka and other programmes. These platforms have enabled the business to increase its visibility, establish strategic partnerships and connect with potential clients and stakeholders.
For Ramaite, this support demonstrates the important role government can play in empowering small businesses to grow sustainably while contributing to environmental protection, job creation and local economic development.
As the company grows, she hopes to create even more employment opportunities, particularly for young people, while increasing the number of waste reclaimers able to earn an income through the recycling value chain.
“Ultimately, we want CalSan to demonstrate that environmental sustainability can also drive job creation, youth development and local economic growth,” she said.
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Ramaite encourages aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, to embrace every opportunity, no matter how small.
“Start with what you have and do not despise small beginnings. Be willing to learn, build relationships and keep showing up, even when you face challenges or rejection. Believe in what you are building and remember that your journey can open doors for other women too,” she said.
Seloane Seleka is an Assistant Director: Media Relations at the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism.
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