Refiloe Rantekoa, the founder of Borotho Bakery Enterprise, has a story that truly exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience needed to navigate South Africa’s challenging business landscape. Born in Lesotho and raised in Soweto, Refiloe’s journey into business was shaped by his upbringing in both urban and rural environments, learning the value of hard work and entrepreneurship from a young age.
In 2016, prompted by soaring bread prices, Refiloe launched Borotho Bakery. Using a bank loan, he bought equipment and converted his bedroom into a bakery. Starting with just 20 loaves a day, he scaled up to producing 2,000 loaves daily, supplying restaurants and bulk buyers. The business has faced tough hurdles including load shedding and a downsized workforce from 80 to 15 but Refiloe remains committed. He currently offers white and brown bread, rolls, and sponge cakes, with plans to expand and create more jobs.
The role of the JBS Centre for Entrepreneurship
A significant part of Refiloe’s success story can be attributed to the support he received from the Centre for Entrepreneurship at the Johannesburg Business School within the University of Johannesburg. As a student of the center, Refiloe found not only the skills to run his business but also a valuable reputation as a reputable business leader.
“The Centre for Entrepreneurship has helped me quite a lot by giving me a reputation as a reputable business leader,” says Refiloe. “It provided me with opportunities, and the exposure that helped me take my business to the next level.”
Through his time at JBS, Refiloe participated in multiple learnerships and short courses in marketing and sales, further enhancing his skills and growing his network. This foundation helped him turn his small bakery into an enterprise that now serves as a community pillar, and it gave him access to a network of people from different walks of life, who have been instrumental in his journey.
Overcoming challenges and celebrating success
Refiloe’s path hasn’t been easy, but it’s marked by success. Borotho Bakery has won several awards, including recognition as one of Gauteng’s top SMMEs. He was also named to the Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans list in 2019 and featured in major media like Metro FM and SAFM.
A standout achievement: scaling from a handful of loaves to 2,000 per day. His broader mission is to empower youth and women, with dreams of franchising across provinces and beyond.
A message to aspiring entrepreneurs
Refiloe emphasises knowing your motivations and abilities before starting a business. “Whether your goal is money or legacy, resilience and heart are essential,” he advises.
His message resonates with the difficult economic conditions and social challenges that many young people in South Africa face today. His story is a beacon of hope, showing that with determination, support, and vision, young South Africans can overcome challenges and create real impact.
In conclusion, Borotho Bakery Enterprise is not just a bakery; it is a testament to what can be achieved with the right mix of determination, mentorship, and opportunity. Thanks to the support from the JBS Centre for Entrepreneurship, Refiloe Rantekoa’s business journey continues to inspire and set an example for aspiring entrepreneurs across South Africa.
