“Running a business in this industry has not been easy, but we have persevered…”
Building a successful business comes with challenges, but that did not stop the entrepreneurs from Pretoria. Michael Kekana and Lethabo Mokotedi have shown what perseverance can achieve through their manufacturing company, Warehouse Boys.
The Black-owned business was established in 2023 and has grown into a multimillion-rand company that opens employment opportunities for many young South Africans across various departments.
The journey came with setbacks. Warehouse Boys recently attracted attention on social media, after sharing how the founders rebuilt their business after it was destroyed by fire.
Even though they do not possess any formal training in the manufacturing industry, Kekana and Mokotedi have built a company that specializes in intricate steel-cut designs, with a combination of technology and skilled craftsmanship to produce customised architectural elements and decorative pieces.
Warehouse Boys services include but not limited to business signage, laser-cut architectural screens, backlit signage, steel cut addresses and personalised self-portraits.
The work that they do has reached well-known names in the entertainment industry, with projects including studio set for the Podcast & Chill Network by MacG and portraits of public figures such as DJ Sbu and Robot Boii.
Through their efforts, they have earned industry recognition. In 2025, Warehouse Boys received the Top Manufacturing Brand award at the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brand Awards (YOBA), a recognition of the work they have done in the manufacturing space.
The founders reflect on their journey and acknowledge the challenges that come with running a business in the industry.
“Running a business in this industry has not been easy, but we have persevered through all the ups and downs. We remain continuously proud of our journey and the team we have built with talent and skill; we look forward to what the future holds,” they said.
Driven by a vision to become pioneers in steel-cut design, Kekana and Mokotedi continue to grow Warehouse Boys, they continue to use their creativity and craftsmanship to transform space through customised designs.
By Sinentlahla Mbokwe