Prudence Lebogang Mohlamonyane, a resident from various areas in Johannesburg due to her business demands, originally hails from the township of Tsakane in the Eastrand, Johannesburg. She embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by establishing Lebo M Jewellery, a business she registered in November 2019. Prudence's decision to venture into the jewellery industry was influenced by her acquisition of a Goldsmith Trade Certificate, which laid the foundation for her career.
What sets Lebo M Jewellery apart is their commitment to crafting Freeform pieces with an aesthetic and design interpretation that is ambiguous. Inspired by creative nature, their art jewellery showcases unique and distinctive qualities. Prudence and her team create these pieces using responsibly sourced precious metals and diamonds, ensuring both beauty and ethical standards are met.
Challenges and solutions: While starting the implementation of the business idea for Lebo M Jewellery, Prudence faced her fair share of challenges. One of the major hurdles was obtaining manufacturing capital. To sustain the business during the initial two years of operation, they diversified into watchmaking services such as repairs, resizing, and maintenance. This strategic move allowed them to generate income while they pursued avenues for accessing raw materials. Eventually, they were accepted into the Rand Refinery Enterprise Development Programme, which provided them with access to silver, a crucial resource for their jewellery production.
Highlights of the business thus far: Since its inception, Lebo M Jewellery has celebrated several notable milestones. Two highlights that stand out in particular. The first was the exhilarating moment when they made their first sale of a Freeform Art Jewellery piece. This marked a significant achievement, confirming the market's appreciation for their unique designs. “The second highlight occurred when we seized our first opportunity to expand our reach into international markets. Germany became the first of the eight regional countries where Lebo M Jewellery established a presence, opening doors to new opportunities and customers abroad”, added Lebogang.
Lebogang’s message to Youth during Youth month: Youth month holds a special meaning for Prudence, as she constantly operates with a mindset aligned with the spirit of this month. To her, Youth month serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience that young individuals possess when they are passionate about sustainable livelihoods and striving for a better tomorrow. Prudence acknowledges the challenges faced by the youth, particularly in South Africa, and seeks to address them through her business. “The mission of Lebo M Jewellery is to create and sustain an absorption system for skilled and qualified individuals who are beneficiaries of the South African Free Education System, primarily within the jewellery manufacturing industry. By providing employment opportunities to the qualified youth, the business aims to contribute to solving the issue of youth unemployment and empower young individuals to build successful careers”, said Lebogang.
Lastly, to keep when you’re not physically involved in the business, what do you sane? “When I am not engrossed in the world of Lebo M Jewellery, my attention is devoted to my close family and friends”, she said. Lebogang recognizes the importance of maintaining strong personal relationships and cherishes the time spent with loved ones outside of her business endeavours.