One of the hardest working female DJs in the country, Lerato Kganyango, also affectionately known as LKG, is a multi-faceted and talented businesswoman. She’s not only a hit on the decks but also a force to be reckoned with in business.
Since we last spoke to her in March 2019, Lerato’s schedule has been super busy and she’s making some huge career strides outside of the DJ decks. Her strong entrepreneurial skills and big boss moves have moved her up and placed her as a strong contender in the beauty business space. She does it so effortlessly with poise and elegance and we can’t help but fan out! Her latest success has firmly placed her as a celeb with a cause, helping to make South Africa a better place for young girls and teaching youngsters how to be daring and create their own vision. She has also recently landed a new beauty venture with international franchise Tammy Taylor Nails and her FlutterByLKG brand continues to grow, with placements at SA’s retail giants.
Lerato calls herself ‘Mother’ on social media which is quite endearing because of the kind of role she plays with young girls and her Period Poverty Campaign and initiative. Lerato’s mission is to donate sanitary towels and tampons to public schools and work with the government to change the lives of young girls in communities that are in need. Her passion is to assist young girls in becoming independent entrepreneurs and to continuously grow and build her empire.
Related article: Lerato Kganyago: Chasing her dreams
WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE PERIOD POVERTY CAMPAIGN AND CONCERT?
Countries such as Australia have launched a trial of free sanitary pads and tampons in public schools. When communicating with various stakeholders we realised that for South Africa to get to that point there is an awareness job that needs to be done. Period Poverty is a worldwide concern but the change starts with one community at a time. With the concert we were able to donate sanitary towels and, with the support of various stakeholders and our government, we were able to create awareness.
WHICH ORGANISATIONS HAVE YOU COLLABORATED WITH FOR THE PERIOD POVERTY CONCERT?
This was a FlutterByLKG initiative and with the support of industry colleagues, we were able to get the attention of Foschini, MEC Gadija Brown, Minister Lindiwe Zulu (Department of Social Development), and President Cyril Ramaphosa. We are so grateful to them for giving their time to the Virtual Concert.
WHAT ARE YOU HOPING YOUNG SOUTH AFRICAN GIRLS RECEIVE FROM THE BENEFIT CONCERT?
Period poverty does not just end after a young girl ends school. This concert was us standing up for every woman, young and older, in support of their needs. We aim to make a difference, one female, one family, and one community at a time because their wellbeing matters.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO WORK TOWARDS THE UPLIFTMENT OF YOUNG GIRLS?
They are the future CEOs and leaders of our country and we have to invest in them as much as we can. Period poverty is not just about not being able to afford sanitary products. It is about mental health which implicates the growth of families, communities, and leaders.
TELL US ABOUT THE NEW BEAUTY VENTURE WITH INTERNATIONAL BRAND TAMMY TAYLOR NAILS.
My upbringing taught me that wealth is created by having multiple streams of income. We have all been given multiple talents and it is so vital to explore these talents and areas of interest. Tammy Taylor Nails is another passion point and I aim to be an example that as a black woman you can make your dreams possible if you believe.
Related article: Celebrity first jobs
HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN ENTREPRENEURIAL? TELL US MORE ABOUT WHY YOU DECIDED TO GO INTO BUSINESS?
My passion for growth and assisting younger females have lead me to become entrepreneurial. I currently employ over 10 young black ladies who share the same passion and drive as I do. As I grow it’s important for me to make sure that those around me grow too.
WITH SO MANY BALLS TO JUGGLE, WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE JOB OF THEM ALL? BEING A DJ ON RADIO, RUNNING A BEAUTY PARLOUR OR YOUR CHARITY INITIATIVES?
Such a tough one! I love them all! I would say my favourite is whatever I am working on at the time.
WHAT IS NEXT ON YOUR LIST OF PROJECTS, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU WORKING ON?
Sneaky! You have to stay tuned! At the heart of it all, our biggest passion is to eradicate period poverty, and we’re taking it one step at a time.
WHAT MESSAGE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THE YOUNG GIRLS WHO LOOK UP TO YOU?
That the way to the top is to start at the bottom. Hard work, put 120% in everything you do! Stay dedicated, focused and with patience, it will all pay off. There will always be hurdles and hardships along the way, it’s not going to be easy. Prepare for the worst but grind for the best! Learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward. No one will fully know and understand your vision as you do!
WE’D LOVE TO KNOW WHAT’S ON YOUR BUCKET LIST
1. Travel
2. Build an empire
3. Empower as many young black women as possible
POWERHOUSE: LERATO KGANYAGO
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
April 23, 2021
Rating:
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
April 23, 2021
Rating:
