Phumzile Khoza

Phumzile Khoza is the pioneering founder and CEO of Lathitha Biodiesel, a South African green energy company launched in 2021 with a mission to create sustainable, eco-friendly energy solutions. Driven by a deep-rooted commitment to environmental sustainability, Phumzile established Lathitha Biodiesel to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address pollution in waterways caused by waste cooking oil. Her innovative approach recycles waste cooking oil to produce biodiesel, preventing harmful environmental contamination and creating an impactful solution for sustainable fuel in South Africa.

From a young age, Phumzile demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit, launching her first business at 13 by making and selling wrapped skirts, and later, at 16, establishing a successful beauty business that thrived until the COVID-19 pandemic. During the lockdown, her interest in climate issues and passion for sustainability grew, inspiring her to launch Lathitha Biodiesel. In founding the company, she sought not only to protect the environment but also to generate employment opportunities for youth in underserved township communities.

Phumzile’s visionary leadership and dedication to ecological innovation quickly garnered recognition. In 2024, she earned the prestigious BRICS Women’s Startups Contest award in the Ecology category, a testament to her contributions to environmental conservation and sustainable development. She is also a member of the BRICS Women’s Alliance, which supports female entrepreneurs in emerging markets. Additionally, she is part of the Startup School Alumni network and was a participant in the Startup School Alumni Annual Prize Funding Competition 2024, further underscoring her commitment to excellence in entrepreneurship.

Currently a student at GIBS (Gordon Institute of Business Science), Phumzile is continually expanding her knowledge and skills, actively participating in projects like the CSIR Capacity Building Training to enhance her company’s growth and impact. Her recent collaboration with La Cité Bordeaux reflects her interest in global partnerships to amplify sustainable practices across borders.

Phumzile envisions a future where Lathitha Biodiesel not only contributes to environmental protection but also establishes a model of luxury sustainable living, achieving a lifestyle marked by overseas travel, a rewarding income, and a positive social impact. Residing in Bryanston, she proudly drives her Jaguar Pace, a symbol of her success and dedication to her goals.