SUPPORT FOR BOCHUM ENTREPRENEUR

A small but growing organic hair and beauty business in Bochum is proving that targeted support can turn an idea into a sustainable livelihood.

Shi Organics, founded by Khomotso Mosebodi Beauty Moko, is one of four current beneficiaries of the Soutpan Solar Power Youth Entrepreneurship Programme now entering its third and final year of support with graduation scheduled for late March 2027.

Her business, which manufactures and sells organic hair and beauty products while also offering on-site beauty and wellness services, started when Khomotso noticed people admiring her well-kept natural afro hair and wanted the same results. Recognising the gap in the market for quality organic hair care, she decided to create her own products to meet that need.

For more than three years after graduating with a bachelor’s degree, Khomotso struggled to find work. “Starting the business gave me hope,” she says. “Instead of waiting for a job, I woke up every day for my own business. It brought relief not only for me but for my family who saw I was doing something meaningful.”
The Soutpan Solar Power Youth Entrepreneurship Programme has played a key role in Shi Organics’ growth. Through its Enterprise Development Programme, Soutpan Solar has spent more than seven years co-ordinating a business partnership model with public and private partners to support local SMMEs and stimulate local empowerment.

Shi Organics has used programme funding to purchase production equipment, secure raw materials, and invest in training and marketing, which has boosted production capacity and improved product quality.

“This is exactly the kind of impact we want to see,” says Harrisinah Theka, Economic Development Manager at Soutpan Solar Power. “At least 80% of SMMEs that have graduated from our Youth Entrepreneurship Programme are still sustaining their businesses today. Shi Organics is a great example of how young entrepreneurs can create jobs – for themselves and others, when they receive the right support.”

Operating from its own premises, Shi Organics has created four local jobs, serving customers beyond Bochum with interest emerging as far as Polokwane and while the business still faces challenges, ongoing mentorship and business support are helping to stabilise growth. Khomotso hopes to expand across the province and eventually nationally, with ambitions to grow Shi Organics into one of the region’s leading organic beauty brands.

“There is nothing more satisfying than seeing your hard work pay off,” she says. “The support we’ve received from the Soutpan Solar Power Youth Entrepreneurship Programme has opened my mind to new ways of managing and growing the business. I believe this will become the legacy business I’ve always wanted it to be.”