Mahlatse Mamaila is a visionary entrepreneur who is reshaping South Africa’s energy landscape. As the founder of INO-Biodiesel, she converts waste cooking oil into biodiesel, a clean and renewable energy source. Her innovative approach addresses fuel shortages while contributing to environmental sustainability. Through this work, she empowers communities, particularly women and youth in rural areas.
Biography
Mahlatse Mamaila was born and raised in Bolobedu, Limpopo, South Africa. She transitioned from a career as a financial advisor to becoming a renewable energy entrepreneur. In 2020, she founded INO-Biodiesel, a company that turns waste cooking oil into biodiesel. Her vision was to provide affordable, sustainable fuel and create economic opportunities in underserved communities.
Early Life and Background
Mahlatse grew up in a rural community in Limpopo, South Africa, where she witnessed many local challenges. From an early age, she was aware of the hardships faced by farmers, especially in sourcing clean fuel. Her early exposure to these issues would later inspire her to pivot her career and work towards solutions that address both energy and environmental needs.
Challenges Faced Growing Up
Growing up in a rural area, Mahlatse faced several barriers, including limited access to resources. Her community lacked reliable infrastructure, making it difficult for farmers to access affordable fuel. Despite these challenges, Mahlatse’s resilience and determination drove her to pursue education and, ultimately, a career in financial advising before switching paths to green energy.
The Role of Faith in Her Journey
Faith has been a cornerstone of Mahlatse’s journey. She believes that a higher calling drives her purpose to improve her community and the world. During the toughest times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, her faith gave her the strength to transition from financial advising to renewable energy. It helped her focus on her mission to create positive change through sustainable energy.
Career Path
Before founding INO-Biodiesel, Mahlatse worked as a financial advisor. However, the challenges faced by farmers during the COVID-19 lockdown led her to explore renewable energy. In 2020, she pivoted to biofuels, learning how to convert waste cooking oil into biodiesel. Her company has since gained recognition for its role in addressing fuel shortages and reducing environmental waste.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
Beyond her business, Mahlatse is deeply committed to social impact. She works with women in rural areas to grow agricultural produce, which can be processed into oil or used to address food insecurity. Her company also provides biodiesel-powered generators to schools and medical clinics during load-shedding, ensuring these institutions have the energy they need to function.
Personal Life and Family
Mahlatse is deeply connected to her roots in Limpopo. Although she is now based in Pretoria, she remains dedicated to empowering her rural community. She works closely with local women and youth, helping them to participate in the green energy sector. Her family’s support has been crucial in her journey, motivating her to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams despite numerous obstacles.
Net Worth and Financial Success
INO-Biodiesel has grown significantly under Mahlatse’s leadership. The company currently produces 40,000 liters of biodiesel per month. It has gained recognition in South Africa and beyond, securing partnerships and funding to scale its operations. In 2024, the company won a R400,000 grant from the She’s Next South Africa competition. Mahlatse’s innovative work continues to attract support from various sectors.
Conclusion
Mahlatse Mamaila’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and determination. She has created a sustainable, affordable alternative to traditional fuels by converting waste cooking oil into biodiesel. Her work addresses environmental challenges and creates economic opportunities for rural communities. Mahlatse continues to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs to think green and act boldly.
FAQs
1. What inspired Mahlatse Mamaila to start INO-Biodiesel?
Mahlatse was inspired by the challenge of farmers in Gauteng struggling to source clean fuel. During the COVID-19 lockdown, she realized that waste cooking oil could be used to produce biodiesel, solving both fuel shortages and environmental issues.
2. How much biodiesel does INO-Biodiesel produce?
INO-Biodiesel currently produces 40,000 liters of biodiesel per month, converting waste cooking oil into a renewable energy source.
3. What are the primary industries that use INO-Biodiesel?
INO-Biodiesel primarily serves the construction and mining industries, where there is a significant demand for clean fuel.
4. How does Mahlatse Mamaila support local communities?
Mahlatse works with women and youth in rural communities to cultivate agricultural produce. She also provides biodiesel-powered generators to schools and medical clinics during load-shedding.
5. What recognition has Mahlatse Mamaila received for her work?
Mahlatse has won several awards, including the She’s Next South Africa competition (R400,000 grant) and the IWISA No. 1 Community Champion of Gauteng award.
