By: Thoboloko Ntšonyane
MAFETENG – In a district of Mafeteng, a woman with an unstoppable spirit turned her love for cooking into a flourishing business. What started as a humble venture in 2017 has grown into a thriving catering and deco company that serves events ranging from weddings and graduations to corporate conferences and birthday parties.
The woman behind Malivos Catering, ‘Mamolefi Khomari, is a determined caterer who faced challenges on her path but never gave up.
“I’ve always loved cooking,” she beamed.
“I grew up watching my mother cook at the market, and it inspired me from a young age. There was something about the way she would prepare meals.” Khomari said this made her realise that cooking wasn’t just about feeding people it was about making them feel happy.
Her journey into the world of catering came after completing her studies. She then enrolled at the Lesotho Agriculture College (LAC) where she studied Home Economics and that, laid foundation for the business she runs today. “That’s when my passion for food truly ignited,” she recalled.
But starting a business from scratch, especially in a competitive industry like catering, was no easy feat. She faced challenges, including the responsibility of paying rent for her workspace, covering wages for her staff, and managing food supplies.
“The business had just started, and there were no customers yet. Month end would come, and I still had to pay my workers and rent. Sometimes, I’d have food left over that would rot, and that was another cost I had to bear.”
The first two years, 2017 and 2018, were particularly difficult. Despite her efforts, she struggled to secure clientele, which was at the time anticipated to contribute the steady income she needed. Then, just as she began to find her footing in 2019, the world was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, causing widespread disruptions in business.
Even now as the economy is still struggling, she said, “things have not fully bounced back.”
“When we raise our prices to match rising costs, some customers complain,” she pointed.
Yet through it all, she remains resilient. She said tendering jobs have been a lifesaver as they bring a better income to the establishment, keeping the business afloat.
When asked how she manages to stand out from the competition in such a challenging industry, her answer was: “Cleanliness is key. In the food business, you have to make sure everything is spotless, from the kitchen to the cooks. Our cooks are always neat and presentable.”
But good hygiene is only part of the secret to her success as she banks on building strong relationships with her clients. “The love you give your customers goes a long way. A simple smile can make them feel appreciated, and that makes all the difference.”
She has also learned the importance of understanding her clients’ preferences when it comes to portion sizes and dietary needs. This attention to detail can set one apart.
Khomari sources most of her products locally, particularly vegetables and chicken from local farmers. They also work closely with butchers to get the meat.
Reflecting on what has kept her going through the ups and downs, she said: “I cook as though I am cooking for dignitaries every time. That’s the level of care I put into every meal I prepare.”
She draws great inspiration from the positive feedback she receives from her clients. Knowing that her clients are happy with her work gives her the energy and inspiration to keep going.
For other women who wish to venture into business, her advice is that they need to “love and give attention to whatever they do”.
“Know your customers, and know your workers,” she said these are sure to determine success. Currently, she employs three staff members.
“I treat my business like a job, so I have a schedule. That way, I make sure I still have time for my family,” this she said when asked how she juggles her business and family.
Looking into the future, she dreams of one day owning her own hotel. “Even if it starts small, with a bed and breakfast or a guest house, I know it will grow,” she said as she lit up with hope. “And one day, I’ll be able to look back and say I started from a catering business.”