In the vibrant city of Tshwane, known for its purple Jacaranda blooms, Lufuno Rasoesoe once directed traffic with precision and authority. Today, she leads from a different lane — as the Founder and Managing Director of TOSH Detergents, a brand dedicated to tackling hygiene poverty, empowering women and youth, and preserving indigenous knowledge.

Her journey into entrepreneurship was not linear. After working as a traffic officer, Lufuno transitioned into construction as a Building Surveyor. Yet, her deeper calling emerged as she witnessed the growing crises of unemployment and lack of access to affordable hygiene products in South Africa’s townships and rural communities.

“I wanted to create a business that didn’t just make products, but changed lives and opened opportunities.”

Roots of a Leader

From childhood, Lufuno was intentional about growth. As the eldest child, leadership came naturally — whether serving as a school prefect, leading church youth initiatives, or immersing herself in educational competitions. Her passion for creating with her hands and her strong work ethic laid the foundation for the innovative entrepreneur she is today.

The Birth of TOSH Detergents

What began in her garage has grown into a recognized brand. TOSH Detergents produces a range of eco-friendly cleaning products, made gentle for both consumers and the environment. The formulations are unique, infused with indigenous knowledge passed down from her mother, using a plant rich in natural saponins (natural foaming agents).

This isn’t just about clean clothes or tidy homes. TOSH Detergents is also a social mission. By sourcing raw materials through rural women harvesters, creating jobs for women, youth, and people with disabilities, and introducing refill stations in townships, the business is tackling hygiene poverty, unemployment, and plastic waste all at once.

Products and Services

• Eco-friendly detergents made with indigenous ingredients
• Professional cleaning services powered by their own products
• Affordable refill stations in townships (reducing single-use plastic)

Overcoming Fear, Building Purpose

Starting a business was not without challenges. For Lufuno, the greatest barrier was fear. Fear of whether her products would be accepted, fear of stepping away from formal employment, fear of failure.

“Fear is the gatekeeper of growth. When you confront and overcome it, you unlock your true potential and discover your purpose.”

One bold decision that shaped TOSH’s future was moving from her garage to a professional manufacturing space — a leap that seemed risky at the time but ultimately accelerated the company’s growth and credibility.

Staying Relevant in a Changing Market

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many businesses to rethink their models. For TOSH Detergents, it was an opportunity to pivot. Recognizing shifts towards bulk purchasing and online shopping, Lufuno quickly adapted — offering bulk packaging, partnering with e-commerce platforms, and enabling township distributors to resell products in smaller quantities.

This strategy not only sustained the business during uncertainty but unlocked new opportunities for scale.

A Vision Beyond Borders

Looking ahead, Lufuno envisions TOSH Detergents expanding into the export market with a large-scale manufacturing plant. This growth would amplify job creation, extend their reach across national and international retail chains, and cement their role as an African brand with global impact.

Her motivation remains rooted in purpose. “If not me, then who? If not now, then when?”

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Lufuno’s message to anyone considering business is clear:

• Start where you are — use the resources you already have.
• Pursue excellence, even in small beginnings.
• Don’t wait for perfection — growth and refinement come along the way.
• Take action — the first step opens the path to greater opportunities.

Connect with TOSH Detergents

• 🌍 Website: www.toshdetergents.co.za
• 📞 Call/WhatsApp: 064 509 0109
• 📧 Email: admin@toshdetergents.co.za

TOSH Detergents — cleaning homes, creating jobs, and changing lives.