We have all lusted to pursue a dream that can turn us into the next Jeff Bezos or Bill Gates, but for Bathu founder Thabo Baloyi, his fantasies of starting a sneaker business quickly turned him into a millionaire.
Bathu, which has become one of the most sought-after sneakers in SA, worn by the likes of Lerato Kganyago, Khanyi Mbau and Somizi Mhlongo, has brought about the entrepreneurs’ latest range of sneakers titled Moja.
Bathu, which means shoe in township slang, is Baloyi’s inspiration for the Moja range, which borrows its name from the lingo meaning “something is good”.
The sneakers are available in a number of colours, including bold options such as cherry red and modern multicoloured versions such as the berry blaze. The sneaker also takes a bold new step excluding the signature Bathu tricolour stripes found at the bottom of the shoe as part of evolving the brand.
“We want to embrace everyone who is on a great journey of making an impact. We wanted something that would be funky, audacious and still comfortable,” says Baloyi.
Taking aim at building a business with a greener carbon footprint, Baloyi has set his sights on more sustainable methods of designing sneakers. Other than biofriendly mesh and rubber, which are much greener options for the brand that produces in larger quantities, Baloyi has also looked to sustainable options in terms of leather.
“We make sure all of our grades of leather are approved by the right authorities,” he says.
With the business growing to newer heights, Baloyi will be opening their latest store in East London, their 16th flagship store in five years.
