Johannita Eksteen

Funky Ouma

What does your company do?

The story of "Funky Ouma" is a heartwarming tale of culinary passion that transcends generations. It's a brand that has its roots in the love of a grandmother's kitchen, where the art of flavor blending meets the demands of modern living. With a focus on convenience without compromising on taste, "Funky Ouma" offers a variety of seasonings that promise to bring a touch of home-cooked goodness to meals, even in the hustle and bustle of today's fast-paced world. From the African Braai & Cooking Rub to the unique Black Garlic Pink Salt, each product is crafted to enhance the cooking experience, making it easier for families to enjoy flavorful dishes with a sprinkle of tradition. We manufacture natural, junk free, braai and cooking spice. Our brand is Proudly South African and we are selling our range from the Table Mountain shop to the Deli in Netherlands.

What is your biggest success?

Starting with a vision to bring a unique twist to traditional South African flavors, the journey of Funky Ouma has been nothing short of remarkable. From its humble beginnings, the brand has grown exponentially, now gracing the shelves of 1600 independent South African stores and expanding the range into 9 countries. It's a testament to the vibrant and flavorful Braai and cooking salt that has captured the hearts of many. Funky Ouma stands as a beacon of success, not only in the culinary world but also as a force for good, providing employment to 30 individuals, predominantly women, and supporting their families. This brand transcends its role as a spice provider; it's a symbol of opportunity and growth, a well-oiled machine that empowers its team to flourish. Funky Ouma is more than just a name on a product—it's a story of passion, innovation, and community impact, a true inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

The journey of entrepreneurship is indeed a tapestry woven with threads of challenges and triumphs. The surge in demand for a product is a testament to its value in the market, and the swift action to upscale operations reflects a commitment to customer satisfaction. It's a balancing act of monumental proportions, especially when personal sacrifices are made to ensure the business thrives. Yet, it's in these moments of stretching beyond one's limits that true growth occurs. Just like a seed requires both the darkness of the soil and the light of the sun to blossom, so too does an entrepreneur need the trials and victories to mature. The resilience shown in facing financial strain, the dedication to family, and the courage to self-reflect and push forward are the hallmarks of not just a successful businessperson, but a formidable individual. This period of growth, though dark, is indeed part of a larger journey towards a brighter future. It's a narrative of personal and professional evolution, where every setback is a setup for a comeback, and every sacrifice paves the way for success.