Startup Story
Coffee lovers in South Africa can now enjoy their favourite brew whilst making a difference to the lives of young deaf people, thanks to Maeshibe Coffee, founded by entrepreneur Maeshibe Marema.
LoA found out more about this impact driven entrepreneur with a passion for coffee.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Maeshibe Marema and I am the founder of Maeshibe Coffee. We are based in Pretoria East, South Africa. I am also a Captain in the South African National Defence Force, a philanthropist, academic and an entrepreneur.
“My business, Maeshibe Coffee, roasts, packages and distributes our coffee on e-commerce.”
What does your company do?
My business, Maeshibe Coffee, roasts, packages and distributes our coffee on e-commerce. We offer hot beverage solutions (coffee bars) to corporate and government offices. We work with deaf people as baristas, this is our social innovation program. We employ and empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. This project was self-funded in August 2019.
What inspired you to start your company?
I wanted to create employment. I was born and bred in a small village called Zebediela in Limpopo. I know poverty and I wanted to create something that can give back in the form of employment.
“We work with deaf people as baristas, this is our social innovation program. We employ and empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.“
Why should anyone use your service or product?
What makes our brand special is that we work with deaf baristas which gives our clients a chance to learn sign language.
Tell us a little about your team
We have a personal assistant who does PR and manages our books. Also, a graphic designer and a barista.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
I started selling tomatoes door to door at a very young age. My mom is an entrepreneur at heart. At the age of 70 she still sells from her garden and sells food at our nearby primary school. I went into business with a little informal knowledge on business leant from my mother. The journey is not easy. It requires dedication and discipline, which is something I have learnt with my 10 years of experience in the military.
“Creating employment and contributing to the GDP of our economy. That’s patriotism for me.”
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
We wish to own a coffee factory with specialist roasting and printing equipment.
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
Creating employment and contributing to the GDP of our economy. That’s patriotism for me.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
Start now. Do your research and network with the people in the same industry.
Contact or follow Maeshibe Coffee
WEBSITE | EMAIL eunicesaritah@gmail.com
Why LoA loves it….
There is always something inspirational about seeing women entrepreneurs not only building successful businesses but also positively impacting the lives of others through their efforts. Maeshibe Marema is one such entrepreneur, building a successful coffee business that also creates opportunities for those who are deaf and from disadvantaged backgrounds. She leverages her passion for business in order to make a difference in the community, and young people’s lives are changed for the better as a result. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo of Lionesses of Africa