South Africa : Mutlwaneng Lydia Seotsa

Mutlwaneng Lydia Seotsa, an established entrepreneur from Sol Plaatjie Municipality and owner of The Eatery (Classical Innovation), highlighting how participation in the Sunrise Campaign strengthened her resilience, discipline, and business management skills. Through life skills and entrepreneurship training, she gained practical knowledge in time and financial management, which improved her confidence, empowerment as a woman in business, and financial stability at household level. Her enterprise operates as a fast‑food business while also selling hair, homeware, and accessories, with growth driven by marketing, word of mouth, and a clear focus on her target market. The business has expanded its product range, improved delivery systems, hired full‑time and part‑time staff, and built a strong brand with consistent quality that attracts new clients daily.

Despite challenges such as supplier delays and fluctuating demand, Mutlwaneng manages her business through careful record‑keeping, savings, active marketing, and clear growth plans, including securing catering contracts and expanding her media and social‑media presence over the next six months.