Bonolo Scents
What does your company do?
Bonolo Scents is a South African brand that produces eco-friendly laundry products, including fabric softeners, washing powders, and detergents. Founded by Tebello Jeanette Khanya, the company emphasizes sustainability by using plant-based, hypoallergenic ingredients and biodegradable packaging. Their products are safe for sensitive skin and children, offering effective cleaning while minimizing environmental impact. Bonolo Scents also engages in community initiatives, educating locals on eco-conscious practices like gardening and water reuse.  
What is your biggest success?
Bonolo Scents’ biggest success has been securing a listing with Food Lover’s Market through their Seeds of Change program, where the brand was a Top 10 finalist. This milestone opened doors to large-scale retail distribution and affirmed the demand for eco-friendly laundry solutions in mainstream markets. Additionally, being named one of the Top 100 Youth Unsung Heroes by Sunday World and featured on SABC News for Youth Day significantly boosted the brand’s credibility and national recognition.
What has been your biggest hurdle?
Bonolo Scents’ biggest hurdle has been dealing with the clogging of drains caused by traditional laundry detergents when the business first started as a laundromat. This challenge led to unexpected maintenance costs and operational delays. However, it also inspired the shift toward creating eco-friendly, bio-based laundry products—turning a major problem into the foundation of the brand’s mission.
