From selling cassettes and CDs to selling properties, that's how DJ Sbu has been building Brick by Brick.
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Rosebank, Johannesburg - Last night, we made our way to Rosebank's Exclusive Books, where ambition, curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit filled the room as renowned businessman, author and media personality Sbusiso Leope, better known as DJ Sbu, engaged readers and aspiring entrepreneurs in an insightful conversation centred around his latest book, Brick By Brick.
The engagement forms part of Exclusive Books' ongoing commitment to giving South African authors a platform to share their stories directly with readers. It is a partnership that continues to strengthen the country's reading culture while inspiring meaningful conversations around business, leadership and personal growth.
The evening attracted a diverse audience, from young entrepreneurs eager to learn to experienced property professionals, including several of DJ Sbu's associates in the real estate sector. From the moment the discussion began, it was evident that the event was more than a traditional book launch, it was a masterclass in entrepreneurship, reinvention and building generational wealth.
Reflecting on his journey, DJ Sbu shared how selling has always been part of who he is. Raised in an entrepreneurial family, he began selling from a young age before becoming one of South Africa's most recognized music personalities, selling cassettes and CDs long before the digital era transformed the entertainment industry.
Today, his entrepreneurial focus has shifted towards property.
From selling cassettes and CDs to selling properties, that's how DJ Sbu has been building Brick by Brick.
His latest book unpacks the experiences that led him into the property industry and why he believes real estate remains one of the most powerful vehicles for creating long-term wealth. Rather than presenting property as a quick-money opportunity, he encouraged aspiring investors to understand the business thoroughly before entering the market.
One of the strongest messages of the evening centred on family. DJ Sbu emphasized that entrepreneurship should never be an individual pursuit but something that is intentionally passed down through generations. He encouraged parents to involve their children in business conversations, meetings and networking opportunities from an early age so that entrepreneurship becomes part of their everyday thinking.
Speaking candidly about entering the property industry, DJ Sbu admitted that success did not come from trying to know everything himself. Instead, he intentionally surrounded himself with experienced professionals who helped him understand the industry's language, legal framework and investment strategies. Learning from experts, he explained, enabled him and his team to confidently navigate the property market.
He also reflected on his early experiences of buying houses simply for the prestige of ownership. "As a youngster, I wanted to own multiple properties just because I could," he explained. "I didn't fully understand the business side of property."
It was only around 2019, he shared, that he truly recognized the monetization opportunities within property investment and began viewing it as a strategic wealth-building asset rather than just an impressive purchase.
For those looking to enter the industry, his advice was practical: conduct thorough research before investing, understand the location, identify future growth areas and carefully evaluate the "what, where and how" before making any purchasing decisions.
Knowing DJ Sbu, the evening was never going to be only about promoting a book.
His entrepreneurial ecosystem was on full display. His well-known energy drink brand was available throughout the event, while Mzakes Kitchen also formed part of the experience, showcasing how one entrepreneur can build multiple businesses that complement one another. Every opportunity became a chance to market, collaborate and expose other entrepreneurs to potential customers.
The audience responded enthusiastically throughout the evening, with some already operating within the property sector while others attended to take their first steps into the industry. Questions, discussions and networking continued well after the formal conversation ended, reflecting the appetite among South Africa's youth to build sustainable businesses and create wealth through property.
If you were unable to attend the Rosebank engagement, another opportunity awaits. DJ Sbu's next Brick By Brick conversation will take place at Exclusive Books Mall of Africa on 12 August 2026, where another audience will have the chance to hear firsthand how one of South Africa's most recognized entrepreneurs continues to reinvent himself - Brick By Brick.
For more events near you, visit: Exclusive Books
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