MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Stellie Taute, known to most Mossel Bay residents as a Mrs South Africa 2025 finalist and the owner of the successful Loka Boutique, has this message for women this Women’s Month: “You are more than good enough and worthy of all.” 

Taute had been making and designing wedding dresses for 22 years before Loka came into existence. Afterwards, she went through a divorce and initially lost her passion for her work.

But designing and sewing were the only things she knew, and Loka Boutique was born, a proudly South African casualwear brand. 

Speaking about some of the challenges she faces, she said owning a business, especially a clothing factory, is quite demanding. 

“With clothes being imported very cheaply from China and more, it’s quite difficult to compete, especially for me and others, printing our own fabrics at higher costs,” she said.

Running her own business and juggling the duties of a Mrs SA finalist can be quite a lot, but Taute manages with grace and ensures she always makes time for her family. 

“I come from a very loving family. My mum played a big part in my love of sewing,” she said. “I am blessed with two amazing boys and a husband, Willy. Willy and I are the proud grandparents of three beautiful children. We are a big happy combined family.” 

Adding to her message for women this month, Taute urged them to do whatever scares them.

“We women often feel unworthy and not good enough. If you don’t believe in yourself, you can’t expect others to do so. You are fearfully and wonderfully made,” she said. 

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