University of Fort Hare student Cwenga Sixubane embarked on her entrepreneurial journey this year, launching her own skincare range.
“Many people frequently asked about my skincare routine because of how smooth my skin was,” Sixubane said.
“That inspired me to start my own skincare business called The Skin Rescuer, to help others with their skincare concerns and boost their confidence with effective products,” she said.
Born and bred in Duncan Village, Sixubane said her business was gaining momentum, with numerous supporters backing her idea.
The 20-year-old, who is a first-year bachelor of commerce law student, said that while her business was just a few months old, it was growing fast as people loved her products.
A go-getter, Sixubane juggles her passion for business with her duties as a radio host on Kumkani FM as well as promotional work and has even held her own beauty pageant, having recently successfully run the Miss Summer EL contest.
She said using the skin care products made it easier for her to market them.
“I personally use these products so it is not difficult to market them to my customers,”
Sixubane said the products helped her to sustain herself.
“Running my skincare business not only aids those with skin issues but also provides me with an additional income stream.”
She said hustling was something she was proud of.
“I believe in diversifying income sources, which is another reason that motivated me to establish this business. Currently, my customers are based in East London.
“My goal is to expand my customer base nationwide. I am planning to recruit brand ambassadors across all provinces as soon as the business takes shape.”
She said her business provided income to help take the financial weight off her mother’s shoulders.
“The profits support my independence and also allow me to rely on my mother less. I am able to sustain myself and rarely need to ask for financial assistance from home.”
Sixubane, who sometimes makes the products at home using her own recipes, said she had learnt the skills from a company she found on Instagram.
“I developed a relationship with them and learnt about their ingredients. Our relationship is great and I am planning to visit them in Johannesburg to see their production process.”
Sixubane said the business was the start of greater things to come.
“I have always aspired to be an entrepreneur and am proud to have established my brand. The income from my business helps cover my expenses, such as toiletries, groceries and beauty treatments.”
Like any other entrepreneur, Sixubane said she had experienced challenges.
“One is the safety of my products. I use Bolt for deliveries. I am working on finding a dependable delivery driver.”
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