Local business woman scoops coveted award at prestigious competition

Shortlisted from over 320 applicants, Lethiwe was placed second overall, walking away with a cash prize of R70 000 and her share of R100 000 in airtime.

Lethiwe first became aware of the awards on Facebook a year ago. Unfortunately, at the time, the awards were only open to businesses in Mpumalanga. Nevertheless, she waited patiently and was delighted to discover that this year; KZN candidates could enter the competition. She applied, and much to her surprise, she was invited to pitch.

Given that she was the only business in the Amajuba District, she felt compelled to represent and give it her all. Following a gala dinner in Durban where 20 small businesses were recognised, she was ecstatic when they called her name as a second prizewinner.

The Bambelela Awards, under the slogan ‘hold on to your dreams’ perfectly encapsulates Lethiwe’s work ethic and ‘never give up attitude.’

The Newcastle Advertiser met with Lethiwe who was still on a high from her win to talk about her business, her childhood and what motivates her to keep on going.

1. What has been the inspiration behind your business?

I was inspired by my grandmother’s resourcefulness. Her farming and gardening skills helped to support our family when I was growing up, and as I looked around, I saw many other women using their skills to support their families. It was from these observations that I got the idea to launch the non-profit Isithebe Skills and Entrepreneurship Programme. This was a programme designed to empower women by helping them develop their abilities in knitting, sewing, and other crafts and by supporting the launch of their own NPOs and enterprises

Five years ago, I founded Makoti Life and Style, a local company that provides a platform for women to directly sell their bridal goods and services to soon-to-be brides for wedding-related services. The business has expanded to include an aesthetics clinic and has given local women and youth jobs.

2. What challenges have you faced as a young woman in business?

Running a business with extremely limited resources and no financial backing is one of the hardest challenges, and it can occasionally dampen motivation and determination. Due to financial constraints, I am unable to hire as many employees as I require and must handle every aspect of my business, including administration, sales and marketing.

3. How do you keep going despite the challenges?

I am fortunate to have a loving family that has supported me through good times and bad. My husband has been my rock, supporting me every step of the way in this business. I also have several family members who have been so supportive and have given their time to help me with the business without the expectations of any compensation.

4. Who is your role model?

My mother is my role model. Despite lacking a formal education, her passion, determination and drive to succeed are truly admirable. She has devoted her entire life to trying to provide me with greater opportunities, making enormous sacrifices in the process. She has shaped me into the confident, strong woman I am today.

5. How do you feel about your win? How do you hope your win will affect your career?

I am extremely humbled to have won considering the calibre of other deserving candidates that were in the running. It is incredibly gratifying to realise my work and this recognition represents a significant milestone in my business journey. This win has also inspired me to aim further, and hopefully one day I’ll see my company established and flourish globally.

Our current goal is to introduce an online app store that will serve as both a hub for wedding products and the company. To increase efficiency, expand with our own manufacturing hub, and eventually open retail locations across the country, we also intend to invest in new machinery

We hope in the next five years, Makoti Life and Style will become a prominent household brand.

6. Do you have any advice for emerging young businesswomen?

As a woman, you possess an inner light that can shine despite challenges in life and business. It is up to us to tap into that strength. There will be obstacles like financial constraints, limited resources or lack of support – but you have the power to radiate positivity and push through. Embrace your innate brilliance and refuse to let setbacks dim your spirit. Your unwavering determination will pave the way for a bright future.

Find Makoti Life and Style on Facebook

Makotizlyfstyle on Instagram

Makoti Life Style on TikTok

Call Lethiwe on 0785799921

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