By: Mpho Shelile
MASERU
In a world where post-retirement employment remains a challenge for many, Masenate Qhobela founder of Masela stands as an inspiring example of resilience and purpose. A retired BEDCO Secretary and dedicated farmer with an enduring passion for agriculture, she chose to embrace entrepreneurship as a way to redefine her journey.
After retiring in 2013, Masenate felt compelled to step beyond the comforts of home and channel her entrepreneurial spirit into a meaningful venture, one that perfectly intertwined her love for farming with her drive for self-reliance and growth.
Officially registering her business earlier this year, Masenate’s journey has been anything but conventional. With a background in growing potatoes, beans, tomatoes, and peaches, she transitioned from selling produce to creating value-added products for consumption. “This year, I officially registered my company and expanded it to include the production of spices and sauces,” she proudly shared.
Inspired by Mrs. Makhoboso Shale, another entrepreneur, Masenate discovered innovative ways to utilize her farm’s produce. Her sauces, made from fresh potatoes and tomatoes, are complemented by dried peaches (mangangajane) originally crafted for her family but now scaled for customers. “I did research on how to produce mangangajane in bulk so I could meet market demand,” Masenate explained.
What truly sets Masenate’s products apart is her commitment to nutrition. She emphasises the importance of consuming nutrient-rich food to enhance overall health and immunity. Her sauces and spices are carefully curated to not only flavour meals but also nourish the body. “For a human being to avoid getting sick easily, they need to consume nutrients required by the body,” she states.
Starting a new business comes with hurdles, and for Masenate, sourcing machinery to dry peaches and acquiring a blender for sauces has been a challenge.
However, she remains hopeful as her products are gaining recognition. Her achievement of showcasing goods in various stores is a step towards establishing herself in the competitive market.
Branding, she believes, plays a critical role in the success of any product. “I am currently working on developing a strong brand for my products to enhance their visibility and appeal,” Masenate asserts.
Masenate’s journey offers valuable lessons for upcoming entrepreneurs. “Stop saying there are no jobs,” she advises. “Instead, create your own opportunities. There is a market out there we can end poverty, make a living, and contribute to the economic growth of this country.”
Masenate Qhobela’s story is one of innovation and perseverance, underscoring the importance of self-reliance and creativity in shaping one’s future. Her advice is a beacon of hope for many, proving that passion coupled with dedication can lead to success, even in the face of challenges. Her entrepreneurial venture not only fulfills her personal goals but also contributes to the broader economy, paving the way for others to follow.
Masenate’s business is still young, but her determination and vision guarantee that her journey is far from over. With her focus on nutritious products and plans for growth, she stands as an inspiring example of turning retirement into a fruitful new chapter.