By Leari Lifestyles is proud to feature the inspiring journey of Naledi Tsiane the visionary founder of Bottles and Co. As a young woman carving her path in the business world, Naledi shares her story of passion, resilience and determination. From her early days immersed in arts and crafts to building a bespoke brand recognised by household names like MTN, she exemplifies how perseverance and creativity can turn a side project into a thriving enterprise. In this interview, Naledi offers valuable insights into navigating challenges as a young woman entrepreneur, balancing personal well-being with business demands and staying motivated against all odds. Her empowering advice encourages aspiring leaders to pursue their dreams with authenticity, resilience and unwavering confidence.
Leari Lifestyles: Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to start Bottles and Co?
NT: The seed and idea of decorating bottles was planted 2 years before the business came into fruition. I’ve always excelled in arts and crafts; it was always a passion project that was supposed to just be something light. however, as always, we plan and God laughs.
Leari Lifestyles: As a young entrepreneur, what inspired you to start Bottles and Co during a time when many young individuals are still exploring career options?
NT: As an accounting and finance student, the pressure of school and all the responsibilities thereof was very draining; I needed something that would alleviate that stress. So, channelling my artistic side was the perfect way to distress. In doing so, I became hyper independent and what was meant to be a side hustle became a bespoke brand
Leari Lifestyles: What challenges did you face as a young woman in the business landscape, and how did you overcome them?
NT: Rejection has been at the forefront of the many challenges I have faced. Especially as a young woman in business, it takes a lot of hard work and convincing for certain brands to collaborate with me. Another challenge is the replication of our brand by others, hence why I strive to constantly reinvent myself and my brand, because I know that my work and creativity remain unmatched.
Leari Lifestyles: What has been the most rewarding part of your entrepreneurial journey?
NT: Constantly setting a new standard for myself and achieving it has been the biggest reward for me. Being recognised by household brands such as MTN has been one of the peaks of my valleys as a young businesswoman. I see an improvement in any and everything my hands touch.
Leari Lifestyles: How do you balance your personal life with the demands of running a business?
NT: My well-being always comes first because if the core(myself) of the business isn’t well, then it trickles down to everything that I am involved in, whether it is work commitments, family life and everything in between. Reminding myself that with great heights comes great responsibility and even if I am not feeling my best, I always need to do my best.
Leari Lifestyles: What motivates you to keep pushing forward?
NT: My mother keeps me going, she is the light that illuminates the path and journey that I walk. If I am not doing it for myself, then I am doing it for her and the little girl in me. My mother and the little girl in me want to see me succeed against all odds.
Leari Lifestyles: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, young leaders?
NT: Business and the journey of entrepreneurship aren’t always linear; some days are better than others but always remember that even baby steps are still progress. Do it happy, do it sad, do it tired…it is a privilege to be exhausted by something that you love. Also, what is for you will always be for you. limitation is the greatest form of flattery, but nobody can execute the fruits of your brain and labour LIKE YOU! Remember to knock on all the doors because even if a door doesn’t open, a window will. I promise.