BRANDS ON THE RISE: READY CHOPPED VEGGIES, HERE TO BRING CONVENIENCE AND FRESHNESS TO YOUR KITCHEN

Botshelo Mahlangu, Founder of Ready Chopped Veggies

Ready Chopped Veggies, established in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, has swiftly carved out a niche in Pretoria. Situated at Van Heerden and Paul Kruger Street in Capital Park, Ready Chopped Veggies caters to individuals seeking convenience without compromising on freshness and quality.

Founded by Botshelo Mahlangu, her vision was sparked by a desire to support busy individuals pursuing a healthy lifestyle while minimizing kitchen efforts. Her business addresses the gap in the market for pre-prepared, fresh vegetables that modernize meal preparation without sacrificing nutritional value.

ready Chopped Veggies

Signature Products

Botshelo says among their range of offerings, some products stand out as customer favourites.

“Our cooked not seasoned beetroot has been a hit with our clients. The fact that they can put whatever dressing they wish to add, has been a highlight and it remains one of our most bought and loved product,” she shares.

Botshelo adds that the product’s appeal lies in the versatility it offers, allowing customers to personalize their meals.

Ensuring Freshness and Quality

To guarantee utmost freshness, Ready Chopped Veggies adheres to a strict policy of chopping vegetables on the day of delivery. This commitment highlights their dedication to providing customers with produce that is not only convenient but also at its peak in terms of taste and nutrition.

Botshelo says that by chopping only what is ordered each day, they minimize food waste, embodying their commitment to sustainability. Moreover, they actively seek and value customer feedback, viewing it as instrumental in their pursuit of continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

“We always want to hear from our customers because we believe that’s how a small business like ours will thrive. We do correct and rectify when we receive feedback and we make sure in the end the client is satisfied. However, we try from the onset to do everything correctly to avoid mistakes that will cost us”.

Ready Chopped Veggies

Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Milestones

As a small brand aiming for success, Ready Chopped Veggies did come across some challenges, like any other business would.

“One of the challenges we came across was not being successful in accessing government funding. Also, having to stop people from using our images and logo to advertise their businesses has led to a big confusion for our clients. Overall, just trying to sustain the business from one’s pocket”.

However, despite all the challenges they faced, Ready Chopped Veggies still celebrated a few milestones.

“Being able to open a physical store remains our greatest achievement to date. Having clients in Dubai, Botswana Chicago, China and India continuously supporting us will always remain a highlight as well,” adds Botshelo.

At Ready Chopped Veggies they are one brand that adheres to hygiene protocols. Botshelo says they do daily cleaning routines to ensure that Ready Chopped Veggies maintains impeccable food safety standards. They also adjust their product offerings seasonally, aligning availability with market demands and pricing sensibilities.

“We always try to be aware of what is in season and what’s not and we price our products accordingly. Because we are still developing, if something is too expensive for us to have in that season, we stop selling it, unless the client insists on having it even if it’s at a higher price”.

Growth Opportunities and Innovation

With promising growth and the potential to expand into underserved markets like townships, Ready Chopped Veggies is still accessible to many.  Through their physical store in Pretoria or efficient delivery service covering certain areas, Ready Chopped Veggies is reachable through their active presence on various social media platforms and direct contact channels.

“We have a physical shop located at 325 Evans Center Cnr Van Heerden and Pau Kruger Street –  Shop No.4. We also deliver in Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Rustenburg. People can find us on all social media platforms as Ready Chopped Veggies. They can also email us at enquiries@readychoppedveggies.co.za, alternatively, call 0670567273,” shares Botshelo.

Future Plans and Expansion

Looking ahead, Botshelo says they aim to expand nationally, to establish franchises across South Africa. They also plan to diversify their product range and contribute to youth employment by creating more job opportunities.

BRANDS ON THE RISE: ONLY1CUISINE JOURNEY TO REDEFINING CATERING EXCELLENCE

Only1Cuisine’s growing catering excellence emerged from the culinary dreams of Lerato Mashinini in 2015. With a rich background in traditional cooking, Lerato’s journey from the corporate world to the culinary realm was fuelled by a passion for creating soulful dining experiences. The 30-year-old speaks about the evolution of Only1Cuisine and its mission to revolutionize the catering and event planning industry.

Lerato Mashinini, Only1Cusine Founder and Chief Chef

From Inspiration to Inception

“When I reflect on the inception of Only1Cuisine, it’s deeply rooted in my up bringing,” Lerato explained. “Watching my mother craft flavourful dishes instilled in me a love for cooking. Despite my time in the corporate world, I yearned for something more fulfilling. It was in 2017 that I realized my true calling lay in sharing my culinary heritage with others.”

Since its humble beginnings, Only1Cuisine has undergone significant growth and transformation. Only1Cuisine’s growing catering and Lerato’s journey has been characterized by a commitment to innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

“Over the years, I’ve become more confident in my abilities and more attuned to the needs of our clients. We strive to create unforgettable experiences that go beyond traditional catering. Whether it’s through culinary innovation or personalized service, our goal is to exceed expectations every time,” she says.

Image: Supplied

Emphasis on Creativity and Customer-centricity

Right in the middle of Only1Cuisine’s success, is Lerato’s emphasis on creativity and the ability to put their clients first.

“We’re not just a catering company; we’re a service business. Our clients are our top priority, and we go above and beyond to make them feel valued. From personalized menus to observant service, we tailor every aspect of our offerings to meet their needs,” she emphasized.

Lerato says what sets Only1Cuisine apart from its competitors is a combination of quality, affordability, and a deep understanding of consumer preferences.

“We believe that fine dining should be accessible to everyone. By prioritizing quality and affordability, we’re able to cater to a diverse range of clients while delivering exceptional experiences”.

Image: Supplied

Community Empowerment

Only1Cuisine’s commitment to redefining the culinary landscape extends beyond its client base. Lerato shared her vision of empowering the community and promoting a culture of culinary excellence.

“Meadowlands in Soweto holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I grew up, and it’s where I’ve chosen to build my business. By employing local talent and investing in culinary education, we’re not just serving food; we’re nurturing future generations of chefs,” she shares.

Looking ahead, Lerato drew ambitious plans for Only1Cuisine’s future. From launching a homeware collection to opening a culinary studio, her vision is to solidify Only1Cuisine’s position as a leader in the industry.

“We’re not content with just being a catering company. We also want excellence in hospitality, and we’ll stop at nothing to make that happen,” she affirms.

To experience Only1Cuisine’s culinary treat, you can visit their website https://only1cuisine.co.za/ or @0nly1Cuisine on all social media platforms. For direct contact, you can email info@only1cuisine.co.za or WhatsApp 078 669 8069.

BRAND ON THE RISE: THE EMPOWERING JOURNEY OF AZOSULE FEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS

Azosule’s commitment to women’s health emerges from the personal journey of Tamara Magwashu, a woman of many dimensions. She is an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, an enthusiast, and an alpha female who is breaking barriers. Tamara’s upbringing in the Eastern Cape painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by women due to poverty. Instead of accepting these circumstances as immutable, Tamara was driven to redefine them with her femininity.

Azosule Sanitary Products

The Birth of Azosule

“The motivation behind starting Azosule comes from my own experiences of sanitary pads being a luxury in my household. Witnessing women like myself forced to choose between purchasing pads or basic necessities hit a nerve within me,” shares Tamara, founder of Azosule Feminine Hygiene Products.

Established in 2021, Azosule Feminine Hygiene Products has achieved significant milestones and gathered recognition for its commitment to women’s health. The brand was featured on BBC News, bringing national attention to the issue of menstrual hygiene. This exposure on Menstrual Hygiene Day catalyzed further investment in women’s health from companies like Siemens Energy, pushing Azosule’s mission forward.

Azosule Pantyliners

Azosule’s Impact on Breaking Barriers and Creating Change

What sets Azosule apart in the market is dedication to affordability, accessibility, and inclusivity. Their products are affordable and free from added scents. This is to ensure safety and comfort for women across all socio-economic backgrounds, particularly those in side-lined communities.

Tamara highlights that at Azosule’s commitment to women’s health is pivotal. At Azosule, they pay attention to safety and effectiveness. They guarantee that quality control measures are implemented. This is to ensure that their products are manufactured in certified facilities that undergo thorough audits. By prioritizing safety and well-being, Azosule instills confidence in its customers.

Challenges Faced

Tamara also adds that the building of her brand was a not walk in the park.

“Despite the success, building, and scaling Azosule has not been without its challenges. A lack of funding has hindered growth. However, my team and I remain steadfast in our dedication to overcoming obstacles and expanding our reach,” she says.

Azosule Sanitary Pads

Azosule’s Positive Impact and Future Plans

However, the positive impact of Azosule’s efforts is evident in the stories of those who have benefited from their initiatives. To date, over five hundred thousand pads have been distributed for free to schools across South Africa. Their aim is to positively impacting countless lives. The ripple effect of Azosule’s work has even reached beyond borders. They have inspired individuals like Caity Cutter, a 12-year-old girl from Germany, to donate generously to the cause.

“Looking to the future, I aim to establish a manufacturing facility in my hometown. I want to create employment opportunities for young people and furthering the brand’s impact on women’s health and well-being”.

Through their initiatives to donate to schools, Azosule is committed to ensuring that every girl has access to hygiene products.

Azosule products can be purchased through their website www.afhp.co.za and at Makro.

Brand on The Rise – Katso Lux Curtains

#BrandOnTheRise @KatsoLuxCurtains

In this edition of Brands on the Rise, we’re shining a spotlight on an exciting brand called Katso Lux Curtains. Founded by Dimakatso Dlamini, a talented public relations practitioner, this brand is on a mission to transform the world of home décor with its stunning curtain designs. Understanding the impact that curtains have on the overall atmosphere of a space, Dlamini set out to create her own luxury curtain brand. Unimpressed with the quality of curtains available on the market, she aimed to provide customers with top-notch furnishing fabrics at competitive prices.

Dimakatso Dlamini, CEO of Katso Lux Curtains

In a previous interview with True Love magazine, Dlamini shared that the idea had always been on her mind, but she hesitated to launch it for several years. However, with a little help from fate, she finally took the leap of faith in 2021. Dlamini’s love for window treatments has been evident throughout her life, from admiring people’s curtains during her visits to purchasing curtains on behalf of her family.

Katso Lux Curtains boasts an impressive collection of custom-made luxury curtains, offering a wide variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns, including the incorporation of African prints. The brand has even introduced a Heritage collection, featuring fabrics like Basotho Seshweshwe, Isindebele, Isizulu, and Isixhosa. In an interview, Dlamini stressed the importance of embracing our own cultural heritage, just as we readily embrace fabrics from other nations like India, Egypt, and Turkey. She envisions sharing our unique cultures with other countries, allowing them to appreciate and enjoy the richness of our diverse cultures.

“I am in business not only to better myself, but I am also passionate about contributing positively towards the growth of our country’s economy. Most people might believe that our government is solely responsible for creating job opportunities. But I don’t believe that. With such significant unemployment rates in the country right now, entrepreneurs also have the power to change that truth for our unemployed South African citizens.”.

Dimakatso Dlamini, CEO of Katso Lux Curtains

Katso Lux Curtains has set its sights on growth and expansion, envisioning the establishment of retail stores across South Africa. Alongside this ambition, the company is committed to creating job opportunities for South African citizens and placing a strong emphasis on empowering women through various events and educational workshops. Dlamini, the driving force behind the business, not only seeks personal success but also strives to make a positive contribution to the country’s economy. Recognizing the pressing issue of high unemployment rates, she firmly believes that job creation is not solely the responsibility of the government but also lies in the hands of entrepreneurs like herself.

Find them on social media.

Instagram – @Katsoluxcurtains

Facebook – Katso Lux Curtains

TikTok – @katsoluxcurtains

X – @katsolux

Brand on The Rise – Positive Pants

#BrandOnTheRise

This week’s edition of Brands on the rise introduces us to Positive Pants, a brand that truly stands out with its impressive impact. Founded in 2018 by inseparable sisters Monie and Roxie, this business was born from Monie’s brilliant idea to create a passive income stream. Recognizing Roxie as the perfect partner, their unbreakable bond and shared vision have paved the way for their remarkable success.

Positive Pants Founders, Roxie and Monie

Initially, Roxie had doubts because she often used the excuse of being too busy to join. It made sense since she already had her own work and finding time for fun, exercise, family, and friends was challenging. However, with some persistence and motivation from her sister, Roxie was convinced to take part in the venture.

The exciting part was deciding on the specific business they wanted to pursue. They considered various options, like a baby clothing boutique or an online stationery store. However, their exposure to the fitness industry and their passion for health and wellness led them to create the brand and business now known and loved as Positive Pants.

” FINALLY we found a supplier that seemed to tick all of our boxes – prioritizing quality and affordability at all times. We decided to place a small order for a few select items to sell at a variety of pop-up shops to truly test the waters. We were blown away – our first bulk order sold out in only a few days. When this happened, we realized the untapped potential that this beautiful little business had and made the decision to invest a bit more money into bringing in larger orders”.

Positive Pants has a wide range of clothing choices, such as leisurewear sets and their one-of-a-kind poppets leggings. These leggings are perfect for both kids and parents, as they are designed to be flexible and versatile to accommodate growth. They consists of soft fabric and come in vibrant prints, making them an essential addition to any Little Poppet’s wardrobe. Whether it’s for high-energy activities or cute matching outfits for moms and kids, these leggings are a must-have.

Their aim was to create a brand that prioritized inclusivity and catered to the needs of women of all body types. They wanted to offer functional, attractive, and high-quality activewear, rather than solely focusing on runway supermodels. Positive Pants is a fully operational ecommerce store that has achieved remarkable milestones since its establishment. The initial campaign, #WeAreShe, gained significant traction and support.

Brands on The Rise – Ubuntu Rugz

Ubuntu Rugz, founded by Starret Maphosa, has an interesting origin story. While studying in China, Maphosa attended a rug tufting workshop that sparked his love for rugmaking. After returning to South Africa, he started creating rugs as a side project while searching for employment. However, his passion for rugmaking quickly took over, and Ubuntu Rugz became his full-time job. It’s a testament to Maphosa’s dedication and creativity that the brand has flourished, offering custom rugs to customers.

Starret Maphosa in his element

Maphosa states that the unique experience he offers his customers sets him apart from the rest. He gives customers an opportunity to witness the live creation of their rug or receive daily updates on its progress. This level of transparency and involvement creates a special connection between the brand and its customers, making the rug-buying experience even more meaningful.

Based in Boksburg, east of Johannesburg, Starret crafts his exquisite custom rugs in his parent’s garage. Despite the humble beginnings, Ubuntu Rugz has gained recognition and popularity. Ubuntu Rugz’s TikTok videos showcasing its rugmaking process have gained a strong following of over 29k, expanding his reach beyond South Africa. Now, it creates tufted rugs for clients in Israel, Nigeria, Poland, and Botswana, showcasing the global appeal of his creations.

The Rug he made for DSTV content creator awards

Ubuntu Rugz is really making a name for itself! Not only did they have the privilege of working for the DSTV content creator awards, but they also got the chance to be interviewed by SABC news. It’s clear that their work is worth giving a pat.

Watch the SABC interview here

Courtesy of SABC News

Brands on The Rise – Embedded

Kagiso Marokana founded Embedded, a streetwear fashion brand, in 2013 in Brits, North West. Since its establishment, the brand has experienced significant growth and has become highly popular in South Africa. It has gained recognition not only in Pretoria but also in Johannesburg and other parts of the country. The brand’s success can be attributed to its unique vision and commitment to offering comfortable clothing choices to its customers.

Kagiso Marokana, Founder of Embedded
The Vision

The brand’s growth can be attributed to its unique vision and commitment to making people feel comfortable in their clothing choices. Embedded’s core vision revolves around showcasing South Africa’s potential to make a lasting impact on the global fashion scene. By offering trendy and flamboyant items that reflect the current fashion trends, Embedded has managed to resonate with its target market consistently.

Relevancy and Consistency

Despite the fierce competition in the fashion industry, Embedded has successfully maintained its distinctive signature style. This dedication to their aesthetic has allowed the brand to stay relevant and retain a loyal customer base. Throughout the years, Embedded has consistently delivered on their customers’ desires, ensuring their offerings remain in line with their expectations.

Embedded clothing
Popularity

Additionally, the success of Embedded can be attributed to its strong online presence, with both its online store and Instagram account contributing to its impressive following of over 70k.

Not only has the brand gained admiration and fascination from social media enthusiasts, but it has also sparked conversations and captured the attention of individuals from diverse backgrounds.

The combination of these factors has played a significant role in the brand’s achievements. Keep an eye out for what Embedded has in store for us in 2024! We might just be in for some exciting surprises. Who knows, they might be unveiling new additions to their collection. It’s a waiting game now, but definitely worth the anticipation.