By Neo Kolane
Sixty-seven-year old ‘Mamokonyana Tṧiu of Teyateyaneng has started a business of recycling paper to make jewellery, thanks to the rigorous training she received.
Tṧiu uses calendar papers which she collects from offices to make jewellery. She boils, dries and gives it shape in a design that sweets her.
Speaking with theReporter, the entrepreneur explained that the business started in 2012 after she was trained.
She said that the trainees would work together but she was eventually left alone when others called it a day.
Now, following the training which she undertook in the past 10 years, she is now on her own.
Tṧiu says she uses paper, a threat and wire when she makes earrings. She uses beads she buys from other shops.
She works from the comfort of her own home where she also rears chickens and sells green leafy vegetables.
“I started my business with M400 and it costs my jewelleries prices range from M40 to M150.
“I showcase my products at exhibitions if ever I am invited,” Tṧiu added.
The Ha Motjoka resident said the lady who trained her used to tell the team that paper causes pollution and therefore it should be recycled.
Known for helping old people by cooking and selling them vegetables, Tṧiu said that her paper is not visible; most people cannot see that she uses paper and that is what stands out about her jewellery.
She revealed that is what stands out mostly about her business; but will not reveal how she makes that possible.
What stresses the old lady is the fact that foreigners sell necklaces from M20 and that in most cases Basotho decide to buy from them instead of buying from other Lesotho nationals.
Tṧiu was one of the 12 women during this year’s International Women’s Day who to be recognised by United Nations (UN) and the ministry of gender, youth, sports and recreation as an outstanding woman.
She was happy that she got such recognition from the world body and the ministry.
She explained that she wants to grow her business further.
The delighted Tṧiu said such recognition has boosted his morale to do better by working hard to advance to higher levels.
She can be contacted on 58430026.
