Today we’d like to introduce you to Thando Roger Mhlontlo.
Hi Thando Roger, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have been a musician all my life and have released two albums throughout my musical career.
In 2018, I started my own merchandise business, Soulstar, expanding my creativity beyond music and into fashion and branding.
In 2019, I launched my own gin brand, Soulicto, marking my entry into the beverage industry.
In 2023, I was honoured to win four international awards at the SIP Awards, recognising the quality and success of my products.
Today, my entrepreneurial journey continues through Lilula Beverages, our beverages company, where we are building and growing our presence in the industry.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey has not always been easy. Behind every achievement are years of hard work, sacrifices, challenges and moments when giving up would have been the easier choice.
Building a career in music while also developing businesses came with many obstacles. Starting Soulstar, launching Soulicto, and growing into Lilula Beverages required courage, patience and a willingness to keep learning.
There were times when things did not go according to plan, but every challenge taught me something valuable. Instead of allowing setbacks to stop me, I used them as motivation to keep moving forward.
Winning four international SIP Awards in 2023 was a proud moment, but it also reminded me that success is built over time.
Today, I look back at the journey with gratitude. I am proud of how far I have come, and I know that this is only another chapter in the story.
The journey wasn’t easy — but it was worth it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a musician, entrepreneur and brand creator with a passion for creativity, entertainment and business. Music has been a major part of my life, and over the years I have released two albums and built my career as an independent artist.
My entrepreneurial journey began in 2018 when I founded Soulstar, my own merchandise brand. In 2019, I expanded into the beverage industry by launching my gin brand, Soulicto. In 2023, we achieved an incredible milestone by winning four international SIP Awards.
Today, my focus has expanded even further through Lilula Beverages, where we continue to develop and grow beverage brands.
What I am most proud of is not just the awards or the businesses I have built, but the fact that I have been able to turn my creativity into something tangible. I have continued to evolve rather than limiting myself to one industry.
What sets me apart is that I don’t see myself as only a musician or only an entrepreneur. I see creativity, branding, music and business as connected. I am constantly looking for new ways to create, build and turn ideas into real opportunities.
My journey has not been easy, but every challenge has helped shape who I am today. I am proud of how far I have come and excited about where the journey is going next.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was raised by a Single Mom and my Great grandmother. Poor background but the home was full of love. I was loved, so I was a confident kid who loved music and was a big dreamer
Pricing:
- Soulstar merchandise: Prices vary depending on the item, design and collection.
- Soulicto: Pricing varies depending on the specific product and size.
- Lilula Beverages: Pricing varies according to the beverage, quantity and order requirements.
- Custom or bulk orders: Pricing is available upon request and may vary depending on the requirements.
- For current pricing and enquiries: Customers can contact us directly for the latest product and order information.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Rogersoulstar
- Facebook: Rogersoulstar
- Soundcloud: Rogersoulstar
