In a recent interview, Lerato Chabalala shared her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming the founder of SA Moqhaka Foods PTY (ltd), home to the Activ LivingSA brand. Lerato's story is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to healthy living.
"I was born in Botshabelo in the Free State and grew up in Kroonstad. Now, I reside in Pretoria," she begins, painting a picture of her early life. Growing up, Lerato understood the importance of health. "The way we live and eat directly impacts our health in the long run. I firmly believe that if you can eat yourself into trouble, you can also eat yourself out of it," she asserts. This belief laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial journey.
In 2020, during the global pandemic, Lerato found herself feeling restless at home. "I decided to turn my business mindset into reality," she recalls. Joining online communities focused on nutrition, gym exercises, and health tips, Lerato recognized a significant gap in the market for natural, high-quality products for fitness enthusiasts. This realization led to the birth of her natural peanut butter brand, initially catering to her gym community.
SA Moqhaka Foods PTY (ltd) has since grown significantly, now entering its fourth year of operation. Lerato proudly states, "Our product line has expanded to include natural peanut butter, Bambara high energy and high protein instant porridge, Bambara nutritious flour, and Bambara protein bars. Each product is chemical-free, gluten-free, and naturally friendly. We take immense pride in producing foods that not only nourish but also matter."
However, the path to growth has not been easy. Lerato candidly shares the challenges she faced: "Industry penetration, acquiring suitable machinery, and ensuring compliance with industry standards have been challenging. This journey has taught me that building a sustainable business requires time, dedication, and patience." Despite these obstacles, Lerato sees them as stepping stones toward creating a legacy that will endure for generations.
Networking has been a crucial element in Lerato's journey. "It opens doors to new information, learning opportunities, and potential partnerships. By putting ourselves out there, we reach our target market and make people aware of our existence," she emphasizes. The mantra "network, network, network" has been instrumental in her success.
One of the highlights of Lerato's journey has been moving to an industrial site, enabling her to scale operations. "Testing our products rigorously, hiring the unemployed, and receiving grants have all been significant milestones," she notes. Watching her idea grow from a solitary vision to a product embraced by many is incredibly rewarding for Lerato. "It reminds me of how far we have come and inspires me to keep pushing forward," she reflects.
Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Lerato is deeply connected to nature. "Whenever possible, I indulge in outdoor activities and enjoy meeting new people. I am also a devoted churchgoer, finding solace and strength in my faith," she shares, offering a glimpse into her personal life.
In her quest for health, Lerato often turns to simple DIY remedies. Her favourite? Ginger tea. "It's easy to make just mix some ginger with honey and hot water, and you're good to go at any time of the day," she advises.
Reflecting on her journey from Botshabelo to Pretoria, Lerato is filled with gratitude and determination. "SA Moqhaka Foods PTY (ltd) is more than just a business; it is a testament to the power of healthy living and the impact of perseverance," she declares. As she continues to create products that build and matter, Lerato remains steadfast in her belief that health is the most asset we possess.