A Parklands teenager, and budding entrepreneur hopes to launch his own T-shirt business in a bid to end the mental health stigma.

While 18-year-old Eric Nkole waits for an angel investor to fund his dream enterprise, he’s washing cars to raise money, and support himself.

He’s been battling with anxiety and depression for the past decade, and now wants to run a T-shirt line with his slogan “Let me Smile”.

To raise money for his business, he runs a mobile car cleaning service called Future Wash, which is based in Table View.

Now, he is hoping an angel investor comes on board to help him find his t-shirt business. In the meantime, he will continue cleaning vehicles to raise more cash, which also sustains him. #smile904fmnews pic.twitter.com/uWVFYgYBkd

— Smile90.4 FM (@Smile904FM) February 24, 2023

He is 1 of 13 siblings, and has been residing in South Africa for the past 6 years.

Nkole says all he wants to do is inspire those battling with mental health:

“The ‘Let me Smile’ slogan helps me when I am facing anxiety and depression. I am hoping my t-shirt business will spread the word, ” says Nkole.

He’s hoping that a good Samaritan will hear his story, and help fund his dream.

“I started this car wash service, so that I can invest into my clothing line. Since I started, I’ve been looking for angel investors and I couldn’t get one so I just decided to do something and it has helped me a lot. It’s helped my family. I don’t really make that much but it’s helping, ” says the teen.

Those who are able to assist, or would like to support Eric’s mobile car wash, can contact him at 069 912 8838.

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