This SA entrepreneur went from selling toothpaste to making millions, here’s how she did it

At a young age, Vivian Mokome knew she wanted to become an entrepreneur. Her entrepreneurial drive led her to engage in several trades to make money, including selling toothpaste. 

At the age of 35, she made her first million but not without leaving her comfort zone. She left her lucrative corporate job and took the gamble of starting her own business.  

Mokome was occupying the role of Senior Business Analyst and IT Portfolio Manager in one of the top Banks in South Africa before quitting in 2018. She sold sanitary pads and also ventured into network entrepreneurship. Within three years, she made her first million from the two businesses. Not only that, but she also became one of the top leaders in the Multi-Level Marketing industry.

She successfully used MLM as a tool to create job opportunities not only in South Africa but across the continent of Africa. She has impacted the lives of over 500,000 people and created millionaires within her organization.

Mokome has managed to expand her business empire to include real estate and farming among other businesses, according to The Star. She reportedly has 14 properties in her name as well as farmlands managed by her business partner and husband.

Reflecting on her humble beginnings, Mokome said she is proud of what she has been able to achieve at her age. She never imagined making the kind of impact she has made in people’s lives. In addition to creating jobs, she has a foundation called Mokome Foundation. The foundation has supported hundreds through school. Not only that, the foundation has distributed over 1,000 sanitary pads to students in these disadvantaged schools. 

Mokome, 39, grew up in a family where schooling and discipline were emphasized. Her father, a military officer, ensured she had the best education. 

“I had the opportunity of going to the best schools and that was the language that he would preach at home – that I can’t give you your fancy stuff but all I can give you is the best education because that is what you need as a black girl,” said Mokome.

She continued to the University of Wits where she obtained a Masters in Information Systems & Business Applications.