Boitumelo Setuke’s journey to becoming the founder of Goapele Organic Essentials is a testament to her resilience and determination. As an electrician by profession, she never imagined becoming an entrepreneur. But her struggles with skin issues and her son’s allergies led her to create a range of luxurious hair and skin wellness products that has transformed their lives.
“I suffer from scalp issues due to the hairstyles I used to do that damaged my scalp. My son has eczema and sometimes gets insect bites, and what he eats contributes to his skin problems, which is why I started investing in organic oils and shea butter to treat our problems. I avoided anything with chemicals. Within a week, I could see and feel the difference,” says Boitumelo, affectionately known as Tumi in her community in Rustenburg.
As Tumi’s passion for natural remedies grew, she began experimenting with new mixtures, revelling in the varied textures and scents. Her workspace is not just a place of work, but a sensory experience, filled with the sweet, earthy aromas of her products. “When you walk into my working space, you are hit with the smell of everything sweet and yummy. Sometimes the smell is strong and earthy, and other times it’s sweet and rosy. It’s an experience that engages all your senses.”
Her workspace is not just a place of work, but a sensory experience.
Tumi’s entrepreneurial journey began in September 2023, and she has since learned valuable skills through the Nedbank-funded Ranyaka Building Business (RBB) programme. “I found out about the programme through social media, applied, and got accepted. It was the best decision I ever made. Our appointed mentor, Dr Tebogo Sediane, really helped us a lot. Through him, we can now draft business plans, and I’m familiar with a lot of business jargon that I didn’t know about.”
Working with the Ranyaka team was a highlight for Tumi. “They made me feel comfortable, and I loved how they were impressed with my products during the photoshoot. They really care about us not only as entrepreneurs but as people, which is rare these days.” Collaborating with fellow RBB entrepreneurs at their first market showcase has also been a joy, and she looks forward to showcasing her products in more markets.
As you explore Goapele Organic Essentials, you’ll discover products that nourish your hair and skin and embody Tumi’s dedication to natural wellness.
“Advice to fellow entrepreneurs is to listen to that little voice that tells you to start. Giving up is not an option. Believe in your product. Even when people are not responding to your product as fast as you wish, keep pushing,” she concludes.
For more information
www.earthorganics.co.za
boitumelosetuke.bs@gmail.com
Facebook: earth.organics.2023
Instagram: @earth.organics1
Boitekong is one of 31 communities in 8 provinces across South Africa where Ranyaka is implementing the Nedbank Proud of my Town programme. Building Business is one of 10 programmes that forms part of the Ranyaka and PoMT framework.
Images by Nathalie Boucry Photography