At 36, Lutho Hute from Witsand, is proving that passion and perseverance can transform small beginnings into meaningful impact. Recently awarded at the inaugural Youth Entrepreneur Awards, her journey blends entrepreneurship, community service, and faith into a powerful story of resilience.
She describes herself as someone who enjoys simple pleasures. “I spend most of my time at church. I’ve also started running, and my favourite way to relax is either sleeping or going out with friends.” Her entrepreneurial spark was lit by the strong women in her family. “My grandparents and mother inspired me. Even though they had jobs, they always had something on the side, whether a spaza shop or some other business. That spirit runs in our family,” she says proudly. Today, Lutho runs a dynamic events company offering décor, catering, and event planning services. She also hosts several of her own community-focused events, from teen development sessions and career expos to Women’s Day celebrations. Her business journey began modestly while she was living in Mfuleni, hiring out plates and glasses to locals who struggled to find such items nearby. “Because I was a little creative and loved cooking, people started asking me to cook for them or do their decorations,” she says. To showcase her skills, she began hosting her own events — a move that proved pivotal for her brand.
What sets her apart, she says, is the foundation of faith her business rests on. “My business is Godly-driven. People know when they choose me, they get someone trustworthy and honest. My work speaks for itself, and my prices are fair.”Winning the Youth Entrepreneur Award, co-sponsored by Impact News and organised by Atlantis Creative Hub, came at a crucial time for her. “I had wanted to quit and leave it all, but I pressed on, and being recognised showed me that I was doing something right.” Running a business, however, hasn’t been without its struggles. Competition is fierce, and clients sometimes hesitate to pay for full services. Still, Lutho chooses perseverance and prayer over frustration. “I’ve learned to press on and believe that God will bring me the right clients.” For her, the publicity and marketing support represents an exciting new chapter. “Because I’m based in Witsand and most of Atlantis doesn’t know about my business, this will open new doors.” She hopes it will not only grow her customer base, but also inspire collaborations with other local entrepreneurs. Balancing her business, motherhood, and full-time studies is no easy task, but Lutho believes faith and discipline make it possible. Her advice to aspiring young entrepreneurs reflects that belief: “Pray for your business, your clients, and your suppliers. Ask for help; attend workshops; and never be shy to learn. Running a business is no child’s play, but when you really want it to work, it will,” she says.
