By Kefiloe Kajane
‘Mataaso Mapuru is the owner of Well Lit Candles a company that manufactures candles for an assortment of occasions and is now able to make a living out of it.
Well Lit Candles produce different types like pillar candles and container candles which are made from soy wax and jell wax. The products are customised according to the client’s needs.
In an interview with theReporter this week, she was motivated to venture into the trade when she visited a local restaurant in 2018 and saw candles lit and was told that such were mosquito repellants.
She said the idea just came to her that she can also make all different types of candles for different occasions.
She then started researching and learning more online about candle making and also watching videos or different online platforms. She eventually started her own business from her kitchen.
“I am an engineer by profession but this is where I found my talent and I am now making a living out of the production. It was not that difficult to start because I started with whatever I had at the time. I researched if I can find the products to use in the country but I realised that I could not, So I get my material from outside the country.
“The support has been great because I also sell to local shops and individuals. Some of the challenges are that people are more interested in copying what you are doing than supporting your business. Others just want to buy on credit, go sell, and then pay you afterwards. In that way, it becomes difficult for the business to grow.
She observed that it is hard for a small business to penetrate big markets or to be recognised by big markets. She indicated that she is motivated to work hard on her business so that her it can one day reach international markets and represent Lesotho.
For her being an engineer graduate did not guarantee her to be employed. For that reason she opted to start her running business which she intends to grow more.
Well Lit Candles can be found at Pioneer Mall and also on Instagram under ‘Well_Lit_Candles’ or on the number 58521305.
