Meet Bontle Tshole, an inspiring entrepreneur from Johannesburg, South Africa, who is reshaping how people think about health and wellness through her business, Baaa Health. Born and raised in Johannesburg, Bontle earned a BA in Psychology from the University of Johannesburg, where she developed a strong understanding of human behaviour and wellness. Combining this knowledge with her passion for health, she founded Baaa Health in 2017 with a mission to provide accessible, nutritious food alternatives to help combat lifestyle diseases like diabetes and hypertension, which are prevalent in South Africa. Her goal is simple yet powerful: to make healthy eating easy and accessible through delicious, nutritious options that improve well-being.
Bontle’s work with Baaa Health is deeply connected to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Currently, she sells a bespoke range of nutritious meals and beverages that includes healthy juices, alkaline water and energy balls, a healthy alternative to chocolate. Her business promotes healthier living and supports the local economy, creating job opportunities and fostering a positive impact in her community by working with local farmers to secure fresh produce. Based in Boksburg, Johannesburg, Baaa Health has grown steadily. Bontle is now exploring opportunities to expand into retail, with plans to open multiple outlets across South Africa within the next five years.
Beyond her work in the health and nutrition industry, Bontle is also the founder of The Luminary, a business incubator focused on empowering young women entrepreneurs. Through The Luminary, she provides a supportive environment where young women can develop their business skills, gain financial independence, and grow as leaders. This initiative ties closely to SDG 5, as Bontle’s commitment to gender equality is evident in her efforts to uplift and mentor the next generation of female entrepreneurs.
Bontle’s achievements speak to her dedication and impact. In 2021, she was named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and recognised as one of Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans. Her leadership and entrepreneurial spirit earned her the title of brand ambassador for Unilever and Sunlight as a female-owned business, further amplifying her influence. In 2022, she was awarded the prestigious Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Goalkeeper award, honouring her contributions to advancing the SDGs.
Bontle’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In the early stages of her entrepreneurial path, she faced financial hurdles and struggled to scale her business. However, her participation in the SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme proved a turning point, equipping her with the tools needed to strengthen Baaa Health and plan for long-term growth.
At the heart of everything she does, Bontle is committed to changing the narrative. Through Baaa Health, she addresses the health crisis in South Africa and promotes economic empowerment through The Luminary. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and purpose, inspiring those around her.
In her spare time, Bontle focuses on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. As her businesses continue to grow, she remains dedicated to making health and wellness a reality for all South Africans.
LinkedIn: Bontle Tshole
Email: goalkeepers@sun.ac.za