Koketso Mothusi | Silvercon

Programme sponsor: DSV

“DSV haven’t just paid for my place on the programme – they’ve funded my future, and the future of my family.”

In 2004, Although I’m a qualified accountant, I realised early on that I didn’t want to be confined to a desk job. I started various businesses before launching my catering company, but I think the reason this business has worked is that it’s my passion – not just a way to make money.

In my 20s, I discovered how much I enjoyed cooking for friends – watching their faces light up when they saw the food, then the ‘wow’ when they tasted it. That took me back to watching my grandmother, a nurse, come home and cook for our family. When people enjoy my food, it transports me back to that sense of soul comfort and togetherness in her kitchen.

In 2016, I took the leap and turned my passion into a full-time business. It started with a serendipitous call from a friend looking for a caterer. Without hesitation, I jumped at the opportunity and quickly bought the necessary equipment. Since then, we’ve expanded to offer a range of services, evolving into a comprehensive catering and event management company. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional food and unforgettable experiences that keep clients coming back.

A programme with a difference

After COVID, my confidence was shaken. The market had changed and I needed to sit with like-minded people to redefine my dreams and plans. I’ve never been keen on entrepreneurial programmes, but Raizcorp’s one-on-one mentorship appealed to me. A friend had completed a programme, and I’d seen its impact. When I saw a Facebook ad looking for caterers, I applied.

I was accepted onto the Initial Market Access programme, sponsored by DSV. I had applied for a more advanced prgramme, but the interviewers were brutally honest. They told me I needed to build a stronger foundation first. It was humbling, but they were right.

The programme helped me realise I had become the business. I was doing the cooking, accounts, admin – everything. My business couldn’t run without me. I needed processes in place. I advise others on this in my consulting work, yet I had neglected to do it myself!

Since then, we’ve redefined our vision and blueprint. We’ve identified gaps and how to close them.

We’ve secured three major new clients (a multinational, a medical institute and a regulatory body) – all through referrals. Recently, we turned down a job for the regulatory body because we were fully booked. The client insisted we take it. When I asked why, I discovered the board had specifically requested us. That made me incredibly proud.

I’ve always been a dreamer. My ultimate goal is to retire at a luxury holiday resort I own, with a five-star restaurant serving delectable memories to guests from around the world.

Don’t wait, start now

My advice is: start where you are, no matter how limited your resources may seem. Don’t wait until you’ve reached a certain level. For example, my business partner and I tell the women that my business partner and I train on food hygiene that if they’ve got a stove, pot, oil, flour and yeast, they can sell vetkoek. They shouldn’t wait until they’ve saved up for the equipment to run a bakery. Start now. Then stick with it. Nobody tells you about all the challenges you’ll face, but the ability to stick them out is the real test.

A message for my sponsor

Raizcorp has travelled the road – they know how to support entrepreneurs. My mentors have helped me to deal with personal issues beyond my business. Sorting through those has removed stumbling blocks for business growth. The programme itself was challenging, humbling and lots of work, but it’s been invaluable. Raizcorp has been a friend that will hold your hand, but also push you forward when you’re scared.

To DSV, I am grateful for this opportunity. I hope they know this goes far beyond the monetary cost. They haven’t paid for my place on the programme – they’ve funded my future, and the future of my family. I’m eternally thankful for that.

I come from a family of entrepreneurs – my grandparents ran a business, my dad is a serial entrepreneur and even though my mom was a teacher, she also ran her own business after retiring. I am also fortunate to be surrounded by friends and mentors who are business owners. From them, I’ve learned the importance of discipline and of creating your own opportunities. That’s why Silvercon is not just a business to me – it’s a legacy I’m building for my children, teaching them the same values while creating something tangible I can pass down.