Meet Hlubi Hewu. Property valuer by profession and entrepreneur at heart. Hlubi is the wizard behind Planned Gifts, a luxury gift store specialising in flowers, balloons, gift boxes and intimate events. Born out of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, Hlubi spotted an opportunity to bring happiness to others amidst a period of isolation and sadness.

Before Planned Gifts, Hlubi worked in the banking industry for ten years after studying property studies at the University of Cape Town. However, from her time in primary school right through to working in the corporate industry, Hlubi kept one foot firmly planted in the entrepreneurial world. After running several businesses, even working as a temporary tattoo artist, she finally became ready to start and maintain her own business.

From operating out of a bathroom in a small, two-bedroom unit to opening a store in Woodstock with three employees, Planned Gifts has grown steadily. Hlubi is committed to providing quality products and an excellent customer service experience at every point of interaction, from purchase to delivery. She also makes a point of supporting local businesses, particularly those founded by other women, by carrying their products in-store and using them as part of the business’s gift boxes.

Hlubi has valued the tailor-made approach to the Woolies Youth Makers mentorship programme. She feels addressing the individual needs of each business is important because it acknowledges each winner requires a different approach to grow and succeed. Hlubi particularly loved the social media and marketing fundamentals she learned through the programme. As her experience continues, Hlubi looks forward to dissecting her business and bringing it back together with the expertise of her mentors.