By: Mpho Shelile
MASERU
Instead of sitting back when faced with lack of job opportunities, Ntlotliseng Ramoruti emerges as an aspiring entrepreneur in Lesotho. Faced with the realities of economic challenges, Ntlotliseng chose to pave her own path, driven by a passion that took root in her childhood.
It was late 2018 when the seeds of her entrepreneurial journey began, and by 2019, she had legally registered her business, BRACE MANUFACTURING.
BRACE MANUFACTURING, situated in Maputsoe, exemplifies Ntlotliseng’s versatility and dedication. Specialising in canning Atchar and chillies, producing Chinese cuisine, and packaging a variety of spices, the company delivers a rich assortment of flavours to its consumers.
Ntlotliseng’s fond memories of her family preserving food sparked her love for this craft. “Watching food last for years without rotting inspired me to bring this practice to a commercial scale, combining tradition with entrepreneurship,” said Ntlotliseng.
She highlighted that like many start-ups, BRACE MANUFACTURING faced numerous challenges in its initial phases. Adding that she encountered significant obstacles including lack of capital, work disputes, and the constant struggle to attract customers and access markets. However, her resilience shone through as she employed various strategies to advertise her business.
However, Ntlotliseng states that she began using social media platforms and word-of-mouth referrals and also participating in every relevant expo and connecting with platforms like Finite Magazine Lifestyle Club, and her efforts began to bear fruit.
She also shared that her hard work did not go unrewarded. BRACE MANUFACTURING won the BEDCO business plan competition in 2019, a testament to the company’s innovative approach and potential. Since then, she has managed to expand her market reach to South Africa and has proudly hired five employees, herself included.
With dreams as expansive as her achievements, Ntlotliseng aspires to see BRACE MANUFACTURING grow beyond its current boundaries. Her vision involves not just exporting to South Africa but extending to other SADC countries.
Ntlotliseng also stated that for valued members of the Finite Magazine Lifestyle Club, she has an exclusive 5% discount on all products at Brace Manufacture for them to enjoy.
To Aspiring Entrepreneurs Ntlotliseng’s journey is a powerful narrative of starting with little and growing through passion and focus. She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to begin with what they have, emphasising the importance of doing what they love without distractions. “With no second option,” she advises, “focus on your business. This is where your true potential lies.”
Ntlotliseng Ramoruti’s journey from a dream to a thriving business is an inspiration to many, proving that with determination and focus, anything is possible.