by: Shai Ramadimetja
Moselakgomo Evelyn Tebogo (22) from Ga-Matlala Madietane, marches to the beat of her own drum, As a student at the University of Limpopo, Evelyn had planned to launch her first business while still studying.
Evelyn, now a proud graduate with a degree in Development Planning and Management, is making waves in the business world, earning accolades and inspiring students to dream big. But her journey isn’t just about entrepreneurial success, it’s a JOURNEY of perseverance, self-discovery, and the power of believing in oneself.
Reflecting on her path from student to entrepreneur, Evelyn shares, “My passion for leadership started in primary school and only grew stronger when I was elected circuit president in high school. Being productive is something I’ve always strived for.” However, university life wasn’t as stimulating as she had hoped. “When I got to the University of Limpopo, attending classes and lounging around campus felt boring,” she explains. This restlessness pushed her to start exploring side business ideas.
A proud owner of OX-Tailor Designs. Photo: Supplied
Growing up in a poverty-stricken home fueled her determination. “I may have tried over ten different business ideas—some succeeded, some didn’t. But I found running a business easy because of my leadership qualities,” she says. “Every day, I wake up motivated by my background. I keep thinking of ways to rescue myself and my family from poverty. Being born poor isn’t your fault, but dying poor is.”.
Evelyn’s entrepreneurial journey wasn’t without its challenges. The most difficult part was multitasking, juggling her studies and business ventures. “Balancing everything was tough, and my academic performance suffered. I even thought about dropping out to focus on my business, but I knew the value of having a degree, so I kept going until my final year,” she recalls.
Moselakgomo Evelyn Tebogo, sewing her own path. Photo: Supplied
Despite the struggles, Evelyn persevered. By embracing her creativity and hard work, she overcame obstacles and steadily moved toward success. One of her greatest achievements is registering her business, OX-Tailor Designs. “I’m incredibly proud of saving up my NSFAS funds to buy sewing machines, even though I had to sacrifice a lot. I was working from my room, but now, I’ve opened my own store. It’s always been my dream to have my own space for work,” she beams.
With unemployment rates high, Evelyn saw entrepreneurship as the best option to create opportunities for herself. Her journey from poverty to prosperity shows that with determination and a clear vision, anyone can rise above their circumstances!
“To achieve your goals, avoid distractions like casual relationships. Stay persistent, connect with people aligned with your business, and always uphold strong ethics, and do your research to ensure growth and success.”
Evelyn cut ties with friendships that distracted her from her faith and goals, allowing her to focus on her business, OX-Tailor Designs. Inspired by the Bible verse “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33), she dedicated her time to learning from other fashion designers, leading to the success she enjoys today.
EMAIL: tebogoevelyn25@gmail.com
FACEBOOK: OX-Tailor Designs
CONTACTS: 079 980 0933
