Businesswoman Tshegofatso Molefi is a trailblazer in the field of waste management, and is thriving despite the challenges that come with having penetrated a male-dominated industry. She is part owner of the 100% female and black-run Moli & Mela Group.

Molefi, co-founder and director of Moli & Mela, born and bred in a village called Ledig near Rustenburg, is a former journalist who decided to quit her 9-5 job and become an entrepreneur with her best friend Ofentse Melato, whom she met when she was just a young kid.

They registered a cleaning services company with the hopes of making a good living and did not reach immediate success until five years later.

Moli & Mela provides eco-friendly and sustainable waste management solutions to households and businesses and was born one day when, according to Molefi, a few days after dropping off their company profile at a shopping complex, the manager called them because his waste contractor had let him down.

He asked if they could take over the job, to which they agreed. With just a vision, no staff, only Melato’s father who helped by driving their bakkie and trailer to collect waste, they seized the opportunity.

After seeing the potential in this field, they conducted research on compliance and licensing for their company, then started attending workshops by PETCO and joined affiliations like the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA) to learn more about the industry and how to handle waste, and refined their business model.

When asked by IOL how her background in journalism influenced her approach to starting a business, Molefi said that she always knew that she wanted to start a business, and her job as a writer at an entrepreneurial magazine is what truly ignited that passion.

“This role exposed me to entrepreneurs from various industries. As I interviewed them and learned about their journeys, I realised I shared many of their characteristics and backgrounds. Their stories motivated and inspired me to take the leap and start my own venture,” said Molefi.

Tshegofatso Molefi - co-founder and director of Moli & Mela Group. Picture: Supplied

On how they balance the business side of things with the social and environmental impact of their company’s mission, Molefi said that all their staff undergo intensive training to understand the processes and the impact of waste on society and the environment.

She is also extremely passionate about making a positive impact in people’s lives.

“Our number one goal is creating jobs and opportunities for our marginalised community,” Molefi said.

Molefi is one step closer to adding another accolade to her impressive résumé as a finalist for the 2024 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award. The award is esteemed for honouring female founders who embody the spirit of excellence in business and the ceremony will be taking place in Johannesburg on July 17.

IOL