Discover the remarkable journey of Portia Mngomezulu, a visionary entrepreneur and IT professional whose passion for skincare ignited a thriving business empire.
At the heart of her success lies a tale of inspiration, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
It all began with a simple yet powerful remedy passed down by her mother-in-law, who introduced her to the healing wonders of marula oil. Struggling with post-pregnancy stretch marks, Portia experienced firsthand the transformative effects of this natural elixir. Driven by the desire to share this gift with others, she embarked on a quest to harness the potential of marula oil, sourcing it directly from local women in her hometown of Phalaborwa, Limpopo.
With determination as her fuel and just $14 in hand, Portia founded Portia M Skin Solutions in 2011. Fueled by a mission to cater specifically to the needs of African skin, her venture quickly gained momentum. Transforming her humble abode into a makeshift laboratory, she crafted her skincare products using little more than a two-plate stove and cake-mixing tools.
But Portia’s vision stretched far beyond the confines of her kitchen. Recognizing the need for expansion, she boldly pitched her enterprise to potential investors. In 2015, her perseverance paid off when she secured financial backing from the Innovation Hub, propelling her fledgling company to new heights. With a dedicated factory space provided by the hub, Portia M Skin Solutions was poised for exponential growth.
Today, Portia’s brainchild stands as a beacon of success, with an impressive annual turnover of nearly R50 million ($3,000). Partnering with renowned retailers such as Shoprite, Game, and Clicks, her brand has carved a formidable presence in the skincare industry.
Portia’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the boundless potential of entrepreneurial spirit. Drawing inspiration from her lineage of self-employed matriarchs, she embodies the ethos of empowerment and self-reliance. From crafting decorative cushions in her youth to pioneering indigenous African skincare solutions, Portia’s path has been defined by ingenuity and passion.
As accolades continue to pour in, including prestigious awards from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Portia remains steadfast in her commitment to excellence. With a steadfast dedication to innovation and a deep reverence for her heritage, she continues to redefine the boundaries of success in the world of agro-processing.
