Constantia Curtains founder weaves a legacy of hope

As he nears his 50th birthday, Saleh Abrahams, founder of Constantia Curtains, reflects on a journey woven with perseverance, faith, and purpose.

Over the years, he has built more than a thriving curtain business - he has crafted a story of resilience and hope, he said.  

Growing up amid his family’s struggles in Grassy Park, Mr Abrahams learned early the value of hard work and determination, lessons that continue to shape his life and impact the community.

Mr Abrahams’ story began in Retreat, where his family ran a small fabric business while living in Grassy Park. They operated a shop in Retreat and vendor stands in Mitchell’s Plain and sometimes at the Grand Parade in the city. 

“Every afternoon after school, I would go to my parents’ fabric store,” he recalled. “Even from the age of nine or ten, I saw their constant stress - managing stock, theft, and working seven days a week. Despite everything, they were great parents, and I deeply respect that.”

When the family’s businesses were liquidated, they lost factories, homes, and stock.

“It took about a year to recover from the shock,” he said. “Around 2009, I started again with leftover fabric from my mother and applied for a hawker stand outside High Constantia - my first step to rebuilding.”

Working from his flat, sewing curtains in his lounge, Mr Abrahams began anew. “By faith and persistence, I built connections with people in Constantia who appreciated my work,” he said. “Over time, my business grew entirely by word of mouth.” 

He said: “Advertising in the Constantia Bulletin helped spread awareness of my business, further establishing my presence in the community.”

Mr Abrahams said he never let social or racial barriers define him.

“I didn’t fully understand those divisions at the time; I just approached people with enthusiasm and authenticity. People trusted me and wanted me to succeed. Even though I knew I was different, I worked harder and turned that difference into strength.”

His biggest lesson is simple but profound: “Be nimble. Life brings pandemics, riots, and change. You might lose your team or have to start over. Stay true to your values - service, integrity, and compassion - and you’ll always reinvent yourself. It’s not about money; it’s about love for humanity and service.”

For Mr Abrahams, failure is not the end but a teacher. “As long as there’s breath in your lungs, there’s hope,” he said. “My stutter once felt like a limitation, but I turned it into a strength that connects me with others. It became a blessing from God.”

Now a proud “non-white” entrepreneur, Mr Abrahams hopes his story inspires young people to rise above hardship. “Our new heroes are creators and builders who uplift others. I want to be part of that movement.”

Approaching his 50th birthday, Mr Abrahams finds joy in family life with his partner and two young children.

“I want to teach them resilience - that even when times are hard, suffering is optional,” he said.

“Through faith, community, and courage, there’s always a way forward.”