Tebello Jeanette Khanya
Agriculture, mining, sustainability, and the environment
Nominee's Province:
Free State
Age:
33
Project Name/Description:
Founder – Bonolo Scents
Tebello Khanya is living proof that the best inspiration for innovation is frustration. When her washing machines frequently got blocked by the detergents she was using at her garage laundromat, Khanya started investigating how to create eco-friendly products. She is now the founder of Bonolo Scents, which manufactures an eco-friendly detergent and fabric softener. According to Khanya, the products eliminate undesired odours from clothes, leaving them feeling soft and smelling fresh. They are also mild on the most sensitive skin, safe for babies and kids, cruelty-free and bio-based. Bonolo Scents brands can be found at Makro and other local retailers. Khanya was incubated by the South African Chemical Technology Incubator, which trained her and approved her formulations. She also credits the Small Enterprise Development Agency, the Innovation Hub, the Free State government as well as the National Youth Development Agency for preparing her for the world of business. The market reacted positively to her products, and she found herself trending on social media when Kasi Economy, an entrepreneurship page dedicated to connecting township brands to new markets, advertised her business. “I am a determined, hardworking, driven and passionate businesswoman who cares for the environment,” she says, adding that the government needs to be intentional about inclusivity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). “Providing women and girls with equal opportunities in science education will open doors to various career paths and economic opportunities. Women will become equipped and be better positioned to enter high-demand sectors, contribute to innovation and challenge the gap in entrepreneurship.”
