ONGWEDIVA – This past Valentine’s weekend, while couples gave gifts and shared sweet gestures, 25-year-old baker Shapwa Panduleni was at the centre of the festivities, managing a surge of cake and cupcake orders with her expanding business, Lenis Cakes, serving Windhoek and northern Namibia.

“It was honestly overwhelming in the best way. I received more orders than I expected, with people requesting different cakes and cupcakes for their loved ones,” she said.

For the young entrepreneur, the busy season was more than a spike in sales. It marked a period of reassurance and progress in a journey that began with uncertainty and self-doubt.

“Lately, things have been going well for me. Being unemployed has not been as stressful as before, and even being broke in general does not feel as heavy because my business is starting to sustain me,” she stated. 

Panduleni said being part of people’s Valentine’s celebrations brought her deep satisfaction. 

“I was happy to spread love through my business. Seeing people enjoy every piece of cake made my heart full, because everything I bake is made with love from the bottom of my heart,” she noted.

Entrepreneurship

Her journey into entrepreneurship is rooted in her upbringing. Raised in a hardworking family, she credits her mother as her biggest inspiration. “My mom sells fish, chips, and fat cakes, and she also sews traditional clothes.” 

She explained that her mother’s daily hustle instilled in her a sense of dedication and the importance of making the most of what you have, which is the foundation of her entrepreneurial spirit. Her love for baking began early, sparked by watching baking shows on television. 

“I always had an interest in baking, but it really grew when I watched shows like Cake Boss and Kids Baking Championship. Seeing those creative cakes inspired me and made me want to try it myself,” she explained.

Challenges

The pivotal moment occurred during a challenging year, when she struggled to gain admission to an institution. 

“That period was emotionally draining. Staying home, doing nothing, and depending on my mother and siblings made me feel stuck,” she admitted.

Encouraged by her sister, who bakes as a side hustle, Panduleni decided to turn her passion into something meaningful. 

“Watching my sister made me believe I could do it too. Baking was something I loved and something I was good at, so turning it into a business gave me purpose,” said the baker.

Budding business

She officially launched Lenis Cakes in June 2022, despite having limited equipment and no formal training. 

“My first cakes were not the best-looking because I did not have enough equipment. But I am so thankful to my clients for trusting me and giving me a chance,” she said. 

Most of her skills were self-taught through online platforms. 

“I never went for formal training. “TikTok and online tutorials became my classroom, and I am still learning every day. Hopefully, I can attend professional classes soon to sharpen my craft,” she admitted.

The name Lenis Cakes carries personal meaning. “The name comes from the ‘Leni’ in my own name, Panduleni. I wanted my business to reflect a part of me and the personal touch I bring to every order.”

Balancing her baking business with her Enrolled Nursing studies continues to present challenges. “Managing multiple orders, tight deadlines, rising ingredient costs, and juggling school with business can be overwhelming. But good planning and time management help me stay on track,” she said. Through the highs and lows, her faith remains central to her resilience. She believes deeply in God, and prayer gives her strength and peace, especially during tough moments.

As Lenis Cakes continues to grow, she hopes her story inspires other young people facing unemployment or uncertainty.

 “Start small, start now, and do not wait for the perfect moment. Use what you have and grow at your own pace. Every big dream starts with a simple step,” she encouraged. 

Grateful for the support she continues to receive, Panduleni remains optimistic about the future. 

“I am truly grateful for everyone who supports Lenis Cakes. Every order and every kind word mean a lot, and I look forward to growing even more and bringing sweetness to people’s celebrations,” said the young businesswoman.

-taimihaihambo2000@gmail.com