Celebrating women is a part of what we do at Tomy. That’s why we’re dedicated to featuring and supporting successful women entrepreneurs and sharing their success stories. We have had the privilege of showcasing several remarkable businesses founded by women, and we are thrilled to introduce our next business spotlight; Yococo, a local and fun-loving, dairy-free ice cream brand. If you’re ready to taste Yococo ice cream, prepare to be whisked away to your blissful happy place with every scoop – it’s an extraordinary frozen treat that will leave you craving for more.
Where It All Started
In 2016, the founder of this dairy-free brand, Sinenhlanhla Ndlela, started making delicious treats in her apartment at the age of twenty-three. Tired of limited dessert options for vegans, the lactose-intolerant and the health-conscious, Sine set out to craft something special, summoning the help of adventurous strangers from her building’s elevator to test-taste the product in its early stages.
Sine’s sheer determination led her to become a self-taught ice cream ninja in the culinary industry. The Yococo ice cream empire stretches across South Africa, further bolstered by a smart leap into e-commerce in 2020. Today, Sine’s team is comprised of six culinary experts adept at multitasking and spreading laughter, delightfully pairing people with their perfect flavour experiences.
Sine’s Secret Ingredient
Yococo’s ingredients draw inspiration from the seven chakras and colour therapy, aiming to guide you towards your inner glow and encourage self-love. Think eco-friendly packaging, mindful ingredients, and a community of ice cream enthusiasts called the Yococo Cocos.
“What makes Yococo so unique is that all products are made with a holistic approach, considering the importance of people’s energy centre. It’s more than ice cream. It’s teaching people about following their bliss with every serving,” says Sine.
Sine’s Successes From Her Business Endeavour
At the early age of twenty-six, Sine made a remarkable achievement by securing a coveted spot on the Mail & Guardian Top 200 Young South Africans list in 2019. Her journey of success continued as she emerged as one of the five exceptional women in the Momentum Budget Speech competition in 2021, earning her a well-deserved share of R1 million. Sine’s remarkable talents then caught the attention of YFM’s Youth Month initiative, The Put On. As a local entrepreneur, Sine truly stands as a beacon of inspiration to women everywhere, proving that dreams can turn into reality.
Next stop? World domination!
In the next few years, Sine hopes to see her ice cream conquering international hearts and chilling in major retail stores. This “seeker, mother, wife, and business owner extraordinaire” has proven that anything’s possible with a scoop of passion and a dollop of dreams.
Don’t forget to support Yococo and follow them on Instagram and Facebook so you never miss out on Sine’s new delicious treats.
Do you know any women-founded or-led businesses that you think are doing the most? Let us know on our socials and they could be featured next!
