Elias de Franca from Standerton put in the hours and got the t-shirt
Elias has been in the restaurant business longer than he can remember, with Marco helping from time to time, but Elias shoulders the responsibility.
Mr Elias de Franca emigrated from Madeira in January 1988, established himself in Vereeniging and only made Standerton his home in 1992.
He left Vereeniging after six months and then began working for another uncle in Welkom.
“During those two years I got my residency,” Mr De Franca said.
His three children Marco (26), Julio (24) and Kelly (21) were all born in South Africa.
Elias has been in the restaurant business longer than he can remember, with Marco helping from time to time, but Elias shoulders the responsibility.
His work ethic prevented him to form an impression of Standerton upon arrival.
“I was too focused on work to form an impression because I used to work from 7:00 to 23:00 at a café in Meyerville all those years ago,” he said.
The gruelling work hours are easily taking up 12 to 13 hours and time for hobbies, is not on the cards.
“I mostly rest when I arrive at home and climb into bed,” he also said.
“I do like to watch television to relax.
“Once in a blue moon, I will take my bike out for a ride.”
Music-wise the 80s and 90s are right up his alley.
His advice to emerging entrepreneurs was coupled with his philosophy on life.
“Life is not easy for anybody, but you have to be very careful when opening a business.
He made that old adage of location, location, location his own.
“You need to make sure you have a good spot.
“Make sure you know what you are doing, be responsible and keep it clean.”
He tries, however, to visit Portugal and Madeira regularly, should the opportunity presents itself.
Elias seems to eat, sleep and dream business since he believes in remaining focused on the enterprise itself.