The story of Bathu extends beyond the mere tale of sneakers; it encompasses the essence of discovering one’s purpose, remaining authentic to oneself, and relentlessly pursuing passion-fueled aspirations. It unfolds as a compelling saga of walking the path destined for you—a story that resonates as an inspiration, illustrating how unwavering self-belief in the face of challenges can propel one to unprecedented heights of success.
Theo, a Gauteng native, spent his formative years in the Alexandra township under the guardianship of his uncle while pursuing a BCom Accounting degree. Post obtaining his accounting credentials and securing a position with PwC, he relocated to Dubai, providing financial stability for himself and his family after the passing of his father. It was during his time in the Middle East that the 30-year-old, now award-winning accountant, embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, recognizing an unmet need in the sneaker market. From an international perspective, a gap emerged—a demand for an authentic African sneaker brand. Theo set out on a mission to narrate a genuinely honest African tale through his newfound venture.
Presently, Bathu stands as a beloved brand, a testament to Theo’s ingenious concept. He envisioned a sneaker enterprise infused with distinct and contemporary flair, crafting each pair locally, aspiring to achieve global popularity akin to renowned international brands. In his own words, “We penetrated an industry that has been dominated by international footwear brands for years, and we have managed to create a brand that is pro-African with a world-class look and feel.”
Theo attributes his success to a holistic approach, invoking spiritual guidance in every endeavour. His unwavering dedication to his craft is evident, with his job transcending a mere occupation to become an obsession. Bathu opened its first physical store in 2018 and has maintained a robust online presence since then. Theo actively shares his entrepreneurial insights and acknowledges the influence of mentors in shaping his journey.
A resounding congratulations is due to Theo Baloyi, the visionary force behind Bathu, for clinching the coveted title of EOY2023 Entrepreneur of the Year. This accolade stands as a testament to Theo’s relentless determination and unwavering drive to succeed in the realm of entrepreneurship.
