Rashmee Ramdeen

Rashmee Ramdeen, CEO of Zilon Bulk Bags, is a shining example of entrepreneurial success in South Africa. With her background in finance and a vision for building a legacy for her children, she has transformed a small business that started in her garage into a thriving manufacturing company. Zilon Bulk Bags now produces thousands of FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container) bags monthly, used in transport and storage, and catering to a wide range of industries. Rashmee’s journey is marked by her determination, passion, and commitment to empowering others.

From Finance to Manufacturing
Before becoming a business leader, Rashmee worked at major financial institutions, including Standard Bank and Absa Bank. She holds a degree in banking management, which equipped her with valuable skills in finance and customer service. Reflecting on her career shift, she said, “I’ve been in finance throughout my career, and customer service as well, so it’s good to have that background for the business itself.”

Her decision to start Zilon Bulk Bags came from her desire to build something meaningful for her family. “My biggest dream is to build this company and leave a legacy for my family, especially my kids,” Rashmee shared. With three children, she wanted to ensure they would have something to inherit and continue.

Her business, which started in her garage with two sewing machines, has currently grown to employ 18 staff members and now operates with three lines of sewing machines, producing between 500 to 1000 bags a day. “From two staff members, we now have 18, and in a month, we produce at least 15,000 bags, if not more,” she proudly explained.

Rashmee credits much of her entrepreneurial drive to her mother, who remains a key influence in her life. “My mum has been working all her life, and when she retired, she didn’t stop working,” Rashmee said. Her mother, an ardent entrepreneur, continues to run a business selling Indian outfits, and it was from her that Rashmee learned the value of hard work and determination.

“My mum’s entrepreneurial spirit inspired me to follow my path,” she remarked. Rashmee’s background in banking also helped her develop strong marketing and people skills, which she has successfully applied to growing her business. “Instead of marketing for the bank, I decided to market my own business,” she noted. Her approach has been deeply rooted in personal connections and networking. “What I enjoy most is meeting new people. I think I’m a people’s person, and that’s how the business grows — just by talking to other people.”

Empowering Others
Rashmee is not just focused on building a successful business; she is also dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those around her, particularly the youth. “I try to inspire the youth to achieve more in their everyday lives,” she said. Rashmee believes in multi- skilling her employees and equipping them with life skills beyond the workplace. Her own daughter has taken on a marketing role, inspired by her mother’s determination and drive. “My daughter is becoming a marketer herself. She’s a teacher, but in her spare time, I see she’s now trying to sell and be like a salesperson to earn extra pocket money.”

Rashmee is also committed to giving back to her community. She supports local schools through sponsor- ships and donations, ensuring that disadvantaged students can participate in activities such as excursions and sports. “I’ve helped schools with sponsorships and funding for excursions. We also sponsor party packs for school sports days,” she shared.

However, Rashmee’s journey has not been without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles her business faces is South Africa’s ongoing load shedding crisis. “Load shedding in our business is a big no-no because we run our machines with electricity,” she said. To keep operations running during power outages, the company has had to invest in two large generators, which comes at an exorbitant cost. “The cost of running on diesel was really draining for the business.”

Despite these challenges, Rashmee’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, is to persevere. “Follow your heart, always be a go-getter, and try to achieve more every day,” she advised. She believes in the motto “each one teach one,” and is a part of the Graça Machel Women Creating Wealth initiative, which encourages collaboration and networking among women entrepreneurs. “There’s always someone out there who can connect with what you have to offer. The world is so big, and there’s a slice for everybody.”

“Business is very challenging, but you have to wake up each day with your mind set on achieving your goals. It’s important to stay focused on the end goal,” she advises. Rashmee is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of women in business. “Women these days have so much to offer,” she states. “By inspiring each other, we can truly grow. Everyone has a story to tell, and you can find inspiration in each one.”

A Source of Pride
Rashmee’s vision for the future is clear: she wants to leave a lasting legacy for her children. “My future goal is to leave a legacy for my kids. My son is now my production and sales manager, and he’s growing with the business,” she shared. Her family’s involvement in Zilon Bulk Bags is a source of pride for her, and she is confident that they will continue to grow the business in the future. “At the moment, Zilon Bulk Bags is making a name for itself. I am the only female-owned bulk bag manufacturing business in South Africa, and we are making headway in the market.”

In addition to her professional goals, Rashmee finds solace and balance in her personal life. “What I find relaxing is going for walks with my husband on the weekends. It’s our bonding time, and it usually ends with breakfast,” she said with a smile. Meditation and yoga also play a vital role in helping her maintain her calm and focus.