South African entrepreneurs are driving the nation forward, creating jobs and uplifting communities, and Refilwe Sebothoma is no exception. Rising above hardship, she has become an inspiring force of change, using her company, Hakem Energies, to bring affordable, sustainable energy solutions to those in need while empowering countless lives along the way.
Johannesburg, South Africa (01 October 2024) – South African entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of our nation’s economy. They are not only catalysts for growth but are also creating much-needed jobs, shaping a brighter future for many. Among these dynamic changemakers is Refilwe Sebothoma, a remarkable woman whose resilience and innovation have inspired communities and touched lives in ways that will leave a lasting impact.
Refilwe’s story is one of perseverance, vision, and grit. Growing up in challenging circumstances, Refilwe faced the harsh realities of poverty and the many obstacles that come with it. Born and raised in the mining community of Marikana, in the North West, Sebothoma, with limited resources at her disposal, she still managed to dream big. Instead of allowing adversity to define her, she chose to rise above it.
But her journey wasn’t easy. She had to navigate through financial difficulties, family responsibilities, and the complexities of gaining access to education. Despite all these hurdles, Refilwe refused to give up. Her story is one of those that reminds us that greatness can emerge from the most unlikely places.
“I was raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly with the support of my grandmother to see us through school,” Refilwe shared in a recent interview.
“From an early age, I understood that my path out of poverty would require determination and hard work. I was taught that your background does not determine your future. It’s your choices that matter.”
Refilwe’s dream was to create something that would make a difference—not just for herself but for her community as well.
That’s when Hakem Energies was born. Recognising the need for affordable, sustainable energy solutions in underprivileged areas, Refilwe founded her company with a vision of lighting up homes while alleviating financial burdens.
Hakem Energies provides energy-efficient solutions to communities where resources are scarce and electricity is often unreliable. By offering cost-effective products like solar-powered lights and energy-efficient appliances, Refilwe’s business makes it easier for families to manage their electricity expenses without compromising on their needs.
“It produces LPG in small portable 5kg cylinders while offering ‘pay-as-you-use’ refills. We have partnered with local businesses as part of their business model. Through Hakem Energies, I am determined to change the world, one life, one family, and one community at a time,” she said.
What’s more, Hakem Energies isn’t just about affordable energy—it’s about job creation. Refilwe is passionate about empowering others, especially the youth, by creating employment opportunities in the renewable energy sector. Her company hires and trains local talent, giving them the skills they need to thrive in a growing industry.
“We’re not just bringing light into homes; we’re bringing hope into people’s lives,” Refilwe says proudly.
Refilwe’s incredible work has not gone unnoticed. In recognition of her dedication to uplifting communities and driving positive change through Hakem Energies, she was recently named the winner of the prestigious 2024 Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award. This accolade celebrates her innovation, resilience, and unwavering commitment to empowering others.
“Entrepreneurship is a tool to change the lives of others. I have seen first-hand that when women are positively impacted in their careers, they return to their communities to replicate that impact,” she said at the awards.
Refilwe’s work is not just an entrepreneurial success story—it’s a win for South Africa as a whole. In a country where unemployment remains a pressing challenge, particularly among the youth, Hakem Energies offers a real solution. And by focusing on renewable energy, Refilwe is also contributing to the country’s shift towards more sustainable practices, aligning with global environmental goals. Her work addresses two key areas that are crucial for the country’s future: job creation and energy sustainability. By providing affordable energy solutions to underserved communities, she’s helping families save money while also reducing their reliance on traditional electricity sources, which can be both expensive and unreliable.
More jobs, more skills, and more sustainable energy—what’s not to celebrate?
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