Refilwe Letsholo's culinary journey of excellence
Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:24
This is true for Yoli Café, a distinguished name in the local food catering industry, which has carved a niche for itself in the competitive world of catering, offering a diverse range of culinary delights that cater to various events and occasions. Established in 2023 by Refilwe Letsholo, an entrepreneur with a passion for excellence, the café has grown from a small startup to a well-known brand, synonymous with quality and innovation in food catering. “Running a catering business is no easy feat, and I have faced my share of challenges. One of the primary hurdles is the unpredictability of the market. Catering businesses often experience fluctuating demand, making it challenging to maintain a steady cash flow,” she explains in an interview. “Additionally, the industry is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for the same clientele. This necessitates constant innovation and exceptional service to stay ahead.”
The seasoned caterer notes that when the business was started, she envisioned creating something that would not only satisfy the palates of her clients but also provide an unforgettable dining experience. Her culinary journey began with a simple yet profound belief that food has the power to bring people together. With deep love for cooking, she then embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, establishing Yoli Café in the heart of Gaborone. She told BusinessMonitor Letsholo that her business specialises in a wide range of catering services, including corporate events, weddings, private parties and community gatherings.
The menu is a delightful blend of traditional Tswana cuisine and contemporary dishes, reflecting Letsholo’s creativity and commitment to using locally-sourced fresh ingredients. From elaborate multi-course meals to elegant finger foods, the café offers customised catering solutions that meet the unique needs and preferences of each client. Yoli Café’s target market is diverse, encompassing corporate clients, couples planning their weddings, and individuals hosting private events. The corporate sector forms a substantial part of clientele, with companies frequently seeking catering services for meetings, conferences, and corporate luncheons. The café’s ability to provide professional and reliable services makes them a preferred choice in this segment. “Weddings and private parties also constitute a significant portion of their business. Couples looking to make their special day memorable appreciate the bespoke menus and personalised service that Yoli Café offers.
“Additionally, individuals hosting birthday parties, anniversaries, and other celebrations often turn to Yoli Café for their exceptional culinary offerings,” she explains. Apart from having to deal with the challenge of managing logistics and operations, coupled with meticulous planning and coordination to ensure timely delivery and setup at events, Letsholo is also wary of competition. She says any lapse in logistics can lead to unsatisfied clients and potential damage to the business’ reputation, moreover, maintaining quality and consistency in food preparation while catering to large groups requires skilled staff and efficient processes, which can be demanding.
Catering industry in Botswana traditionally is fiercely competitive, with numerous catering businesses offering a wide range of services. However, Yoli Café distinguishes itself through commitment to quality, creativity and customer satisfaction. Letsholo emphasises on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and her ability to create customised menus that cater for diverse tastes, give Yoli Café a competitive edge.
However, staying ahead in the industry requires continuous innovation and maintaining high standards. As a result, Letsholo keeps a close eye on market trends and client preferences, ensuring that Yoli Café remains relevant and appealing to its target market. The business’ strong relationships with clients and providing exceptional service are also key strategies that have helped Yoli Café thrive amidst competition. Looking ahead, Letsholo envisions Yoli Café becoming a household name in the catering industry, not just in Botswana but across the Southern African region. She aims to expand the business by opening additional branches and venturing into new markets. ‘Enhancing their online presence and leveraging technology for efficient operations and customer engagement are also part of the long-term strategy.’