POLOKWANE – What started as a partnership between two cousins in Dendron, has grown into a catering and event décor business serving clients across Limpopo while creating opportunities for young people.

A family affair

Vexabi was co-founded in 2014 by Abigail Tauyatsoala (mother of three) and her cousin Vex, with the name combining their two names.

To empower women and mothers, Tauyatsoala has also attended attended programs that empower, develop, while mentoring entrepreneurs and women to be strong in their businesses.

“We launched the business together because we’re stronger as a team. My cousin focuses on administration, while I handle operations. That teamwork inspired the creation of Vexabi,” she said.

Services that go beyond food

The business received its initial boost from Tauyatsoala’s mother, who provided start-up capital after recognising their potential. She told Polokwane Observer that Vexabi offers full catering and décor services.

The catering division provides hot, fresh and balanced meals, with menus covering breakfast, lunch and dinner for private and corporate events.

The décor division delivers styling for weddings, funerals, parties and corporate functions.

“People think catering is just about food, but for us it’s about the full experience – the taste, the look and the feeling. We focus on quality, attention to detail and creating memorable moments,” she said.

Rooted in community

Although the company primarily serves Limpopo and surrounding areas, it also caters nationally depending on client needs. Tauyatsoala said remaining based in Dendron is intentional.

“It keeps us connected to the community we serve,” she said, adding that many of their clients are families going through difficult times, such as funerals.

“Creating meaningful moments during those times is important to us,” she said.

Driven by clients and teamwork

Client feedback remains their biggest motivation.

“My cousin and I push each other, but our clients keep us going. Seeing people enjoy our food and celebrate with our décor is what drives us,” she added.

Creating jobs and empowering youth

Vexabi currently employs one permanent staff member and three casual workers.

“Job creation and youth empowerment are central to our mission. We aim to equip young people with skills and confidence to build a better future,” Tauyatsoala said.

She added that growth happens step by step: “We finish an elephant by eating it little by little.”

The business also invests in training initiatives for young people.

“We believe business should serve the community that supports it,” she said.

Focus on future growth

The focus of the business is on purposeful growth.

“Our goal is to expand our team and décor range so we can serve more of Limpopo,” Tauyatsoala said.

From humble beginnings, Vexabi has grown into a business that feeds people, styles events and creates opportunities – one plate at a time.