Yakgona: How Lerato Mashabela Built a South African Cleaning Brand

Yakgona: How Lerato Mashabela Built a South African Cleaning Brand. In 2018, at just 27 years old, Lerato Mashabela from Burgersfort, Limpopo, founded Yakgona Chemicals. Operating from Boksburg, Gauteng, Yakgona has grown into a trusted name in South Africa’s cleaning industry, offering a range of household and industrial products. Beyond cleaning, the brand embodies a mission to combat poverty and foster economic empowerment.

From Vision to Reality

Lerato’s journey began with a vision to create effective cleaning solutions while addressing unemployment. Yakgona’s flagship product, the multipurpose cleaner, gained popularity for its versatility on surfaces like wood, tiles, glass, fabric, and mattresses. This success paved the way for a broader product line, including stainless steel cleaners, leather care sprays, and body washes.

Strategic Marketing and Community Engagement

Yakgona leveraged social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube to showcase product effectiveness and engage with customers. The brand’s online presence not only boosted sales but also built a community around shared values of cleanliness and empowerment.

Overcoming Challenges

Starting a manufacturing business came with hurdles, including establishing a production facility and navigating regulatory requirements. Lerato’s commitment to quality and innovation helped Yakgona overcome these challenges, positioning the brand as a leader in the cleaning industry.

Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

1. Align Business with Purpose: Yakgona’s success underscores the power of combining commercial goals with social impact.
2. Utilize Digital Platforms: Effective use of social media can amplify brand reach and foster customer loyalty.
3. Adapt and Innovate: Continuously evolving product offerings to meet customer needs is key to staying relevant.
4. Community Involvement: Engaging with and giving back to the community can strengthen brand reputation and support.

Conclusion

Lerato Mashabela’s journey with Yakgona illustrates how entrepreneurship, when driven by purpose and resilience, can lead to meaningful change. Her story serves as an inspiration for those looking to make a difference through business.