Its evident that nowadays, our young moguls are doing what they are passionate about, rather than what the status quo dictates to them.
After completing her BA in Humanities, with a major in sociology and environmental science, Lebogang Motlalekgosi struggled to find a job, but that did not break her spirit as she decided to use her crocheting skills and follow her passion.
She became a mogul at 27 years old when she started a crocheting business, and she seems to be doing quite well. “Being able to crochet things people can use in their daily lives is what gets me falling in love with it every day”, she confesses.
Ms. Motlalekgosi states that she does not limit herself when it comes to her crocheting business. She makes a variety of product that suit a wide range of audience, from baby booties, blankets, as well as wearables for kids and adults.
Motlalekgosi says she draws inspiration from everywhere, but she started this business because of her sister who is one of the people who believe in her.
Which four qualities does one need, in order to venture into this unusual business?
1. Patience: Crochet is about math which may mean counting tons of stitches and it can be quiet exhausting especially when numbers are not your friend like me.
2. Creativity: Possibilities are endless with crochet. There is so much one can make from clothing to décor items. You just have to be willing to keep re-inventing and learning.
3. Determination: Like with any other business, you need to be determined to make it a success through research, investing your time, and energy.
4. Love: I believe by pouring your heart into everything, fall in love with your craft and others
eventually will.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Inspiration is everywhere but I started this business because of my sister Johannah, who is one
of the people who really believed in me sometimes more than I believed in myself.
I am also inspired every time I finish a product because it not only boosts my confidence but it inspires me to want to learn more and make more products.
What are the four tips you can give to someone who wants to venture into the crocheting business?
Research: Buy books and find other resources that will help you improve your craft.
Experiment: don’t limit yourself to just one product, try other things as well, it will do wonders for your confidence.
Don’t give up even when you feel like it: Especially when the math doesn’t add up, as it usually does when making a new product.
Work hard and work some more: Believe in your craft more than anyone else.
How do you overcome challenges?
Some of the materials are not easily accessible, but I overcome that by working with what I have and making the most of it.
What is your most outstanding achievement so far?
For me, every single order is an outstanding achievement. Nothing is more fulfilling to me than
Describe your typical Monday morning.
Haha, my Monday mornings are random in terms of activities. On one Monday I could wake up
and head straight to the couch and start crocheting while others begin with a little workout.
My evenings are usually characterized by preparing supper for my family, watching my favorite
series while crocheting.
Do you know of any entrepreneur with an unusual business idea?
Share their story here.