Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
8 September 2023 | 23:00 SAST
2-min read

Picture; Twitter

In just three years, Loyiso Manga has transformed his life from working in a call centre to becoming the founder of the award-winning extra virgin olive oil brand, Ubuntu. This South African entrepreneur is now making waves as his brand gains prominence on the shelves of Woolworths and beyond. In a recent radio interview, Loyiso shared his remarkable journey, insights, and plans for the future.

Loyiso, originally from the Eastern Cape, had a strong upbringing influenced by hardworking grandparents who instilled the values of discipline and physical labour. Growing up around agriculture, tending to sheep and cattle, he learned the importance of planting and nurturing.

After completing an undergraduate and honours degree in business management, Loyiso faced the harsh reality of unemployment, which eventually led him to work in a call centre. However, he soon realised that his potential was underutilised, and he made the brave decision to resign and pursue a career in business.

Loyiso’s entrepreneurial journey took a significant turn when he decided to enter the agriculture space. He noticed a gap in the market for a health-focused product that could be used daily. Olive oil became his chosen venture, as it was a relatively quiet industry at the time, with room for innovation.

The name “Ubuntu” was carefully selected for its resonance with South Africans from various backgrounds. It reflects qualities such as compassion, empathy, and neighbourliness, making it a unifying and meaningful choice.

Getting Ubuntu Olive Oil onto the shelves of major retailers like Woolworths was no small feat. Loyiso’s journey was marked by hard work, persistence, and building relationships. He started by knocking on doors and convincing people to try his product. Gradually, he gained traction, including securing a spot in Woolworths, known for its stringent quality standards.

If Loyiso faced a moment of doubt at any time during his journey, he would returned to his core purpose. He aimed to inspire people of colour in South Africa, especially those facing unemployment or job frustration, to believe that they could change their lives for the better. He emphasised the importance of generational wealth and breaking the cycle of poverty within communities.

As of now, Ubuntu Olive Oil is available in the 100 Woolworths stores countrywide, and the brand harvested an impressive 50,000 tons of olive oil in the last harvest. Loyiso’s aspirations include expanding into new markets, including Ghana, and introducing innovative products like lemon-infused, garlic-infused, and biltong-infused olive oils, as well as balsamic vinegar.

Ubuntu Olive Oil’s quality has been recognised globally, winning gold awards in prestigious competitions such as the New York and London olive oil competitions. Loyiso takes pride in producing an award-winning South African olive oil that competes with the best from Italy, Spain, France, and Portugal.

Loyiso is passionate not only about the health benefits of olive oil but also about educating South Africans on the intricacies and complexities of olive oil tasting. He aims to foster a deeper appreciation for this beautiful and diverse culinary ingredient.

Loyiso Manga shared the lessons he has learnt on his journey, which include patience and persistence. He said he’d learnt that building something significant takes time and persistence, and recommended setting ambitious goals and working smartly to achieve them.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat here.