Khutlang’s journey to culinary fame
By Lerato Mutlanyane
Armed with nothing but a dream and a love for authentic flavours, Mantwa Khutlang transformed her life and the city’s tastebubs. This is the story of Bokamoso’s unstoppable rise.
From the white dust of the chalkboard to being celebrated as one of Bloemfontein’s mostsought-after culinary masters, Mantwa Khutlang’s journey is a story of grit, reinvention,and unwavering vision. Today, the founderand Chief Executive Officer of BokamosoCatering & Events Management stands asa multi-award-winning entrepreneurwho continues to build her empire oneplate, one event, and one bold stepat a time. As the creative force behindBokamoso Catering & EventsManagement—an elegant,state-of-the-art catering andevents company nestled inthe heart of Westdene— Mantwa has crafted abrand known for its richAfrican cuisine servedwith a luxurious modern twist. More than just a dine-in stop,Bokamoso offers a sensoryexperience. “We aspire to bean eatery of first choice for anyone with an appetite for our scrumptious menu,” she says. “Our meals include lamb, beef and chicken stew, mogodu, chicken feet, wings, sheep head, trotters, and more— served with dumpling, pap, and sides.” Targeting consumers who crave authentic African flavours with contemporary flair, Mantwa believes her food reconnects people with their roots while giving them a break from the fast-paced world. “In our meals, they connect with the essence of who they are,” she shares. A mother and a teacher by profession, Mantwa left the classroom to pursue her lifelong passion for culinary arts—one that began with catering weddings and high-profile events. Her family, she says, has been her backbone throughout this transition. “My family is very helpful in the running of the business, and that makes life easier for me… I don’t have to do this alone. The support structure is my strength,” she says. Beyond the kitchen, Mantwa serves as chairperson of Women in Tourism for the Mangaung Region. Her leadership, discipline, business acumen, and dynamic personality have earned her recognition across the province. Starting with zero capital—armed only with determination and creativity—she has built Bokamoso into a thriving five-figure enterprise. “Our story is proof that with resilience, hard work, and creativity, nothing in the business world is impossible,” she says. Bokamoso’s customer base spans young professionals, corporate clients, government officials, travellers, and families seeking authentic South African flavours. But Mantwa’s vision extends beyond catering. She rents out luxury garments, offers curated lunchbox packages, owns a men’s grooming studio, and provides massage and retreat services. She is also a skilled hair and nail specialist—an embodiment of multi-dimensional entrepreneurship. Over the years, Bokamoso Catering & Events has earned widespread acclaim, including being crowned the winner of the 2018 Coca-Cola DStv Food Festival and receiving nominations at prestigious culinary events across the province. Underpinned by values of teamwork, continuous learning, creativity, innovation, and active community engagement, Mantwa leads with intention and excellence. Watching Bokamoso grow is witnessing the tangible expression of Khutlang’s journey—constructed piece by piece with courage, skill, and an unshakeable belief in her dreams. She is not only reshaping the city’s culinary landscape but also inspiring a generation of young women to dream audaciously and build boldly.
