LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORY
Zuri, a business with a vision to be the undisputed leader in the African beauty sector
Gisela Mudumbi Van Houcke is the founder of Zuri, a company providing high-quality beauty products and services designed specifically for black women in both Africa and across Europe. Her personal and entrepreneurial journey have been nothing short of remarkable. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, she had to navigate many challenges in her early years. She left the country due to political instabilities and moved to the UK as a refugee. Her tenacity and perseverance paid off. During her time in London, Gisela excelled in her studies and obtained a First Class Law Degree in British and French Law. Gisela's first opportunity to do so came when she was appointed Africa Head of Legal for a British Renewable Energy company. She worked in this role for three years, gaining valuable insights into the African market and the challenges facing the continent. However, Gisela's true passion lay in entrepreneurship, and she decided to start her own business, launching Zuri in 2016, a business that today employs 30 people.
Lioness Weekender spoke to Gisela Mudumbi Van Houcke about her entrepreneurial journey, her brand building ambitions, and her vision for empowering other women entrepreneurs across the African continent.
What does your company do?
The company provides high-quality products and services designed specifically for black women in both Africa and Europe. Zuri's focus on the digitalization of the beauty industry in Africa also has the potential to transform the sector, making it more accessible and inclusive for African women. The company's use of technology to connect customers around the world with African beauty entrepreneurs is helping to create a global market for African beauty products. This not only promotes the economic empowerment of African women in the beauty industry but also showcases the diversity and richness of African beauty culture to the rest of the world.
In addition, Zuri's emphasis on sustainability is also attracting investor interest. The company is committed to using eco-friendly and ethically sourced ingredients in its beauty products, promoting responsible production practices, and reducing its environmental impact. This aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and socially responsible investment opportunities and is making Zuri an attractive investment proposition for socially conscious investors.
Furthermore, Zuri's B2B2C platform is creating new opportunities for collaboration between African beauty entrepreneurs and international brands. By providing access to a global market, Zuri is helping African beauty entrepreneurs to expand their reach. This could lead to the creation of new and exciting beauty products that blend traditional African beauty practices with modern international trends.
What inspired you to start your company?
Through her business, Gisela hopes to inspire other African women entrepreneurs to follow their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities. She wants to be a role model for all those who aspire to greatness and believes that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
Gisela's journey is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of giving back to one's community. She is a true inspiration and a shining example of what can be achieved when one follows their dreams and works tirelessly towards their goals.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
Zuri's commitment to celebrating the diversity and cultural heritage of Africa goes beyond just creating beautiful products. The company recognizes the importance of preserving African traditions and practices, which have been passed down from generation to generation.
Zuri, a beauty company with operations spanning across Africa and Europe, prides itself on being a reflection of its founder's life, which has been deeply intertwined with both continents. By positioning itself strategically between the two regions, Zuri is able to cater to the beauty needs of black women from both Africa and the diaspora, offering them high-quality products that are specifically designed to meet their unique needs.
This company has built its entire culture around the idea of being authentic, which is reflected in everything that they do. Zuri's commitment to representing African beauty in an honest, transparent, and truthful manner is the foundation of the company's success.
Tell us a little about your team
80% of our company are female employees. In addition to its commitment to building confidence among African women through its products and services, Zuri also values the self-esteem of its employees. The company also fosters a culture that values self-confidence and encourages its employees to embody this trait. The company recognizes that a positive and empowering work culture can have a significant impact on employees' personal and professional lives and strives to foster an environment where employees feel valued and supported.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
While I don't come from a traditional entrepreneurial background, I have always possessed a strong passion for the beauty industry and a desire to create something of my own.
Throughout my journey, I have faced various obstacles and taken risks, but I firmly believe that each challenge presents an opportunity for growth and learning. Building a successful business requires determination, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to a constantly changing market.
I have also surrounded myself with a talented team that shares my vision and has played a crucial role in the growth of Zuri. Together, we have worked tirelessly to deliver exceptional products and services to our customers while constantly innovating and staying ahead of industry trends.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
Zuri's vision of becoming the undisputed leader in the African beauty sector is not just a mere aspiration, but a goal that the brand is actively working towards. With a market estimated at $12 billion and an average growth rate of 20% per year, Zuri understands the enormous potential that the African beauty market holds.
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
Zuri's commitment to building confidence among African women extends beyond just its product offerings and services. Zuri recognizes that confidence is an essential quality that empowers individuals to pursue their dreams, take risks and succeed in their personal and professional lives.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
The biggest piece of advice I can give to other women looking to start-up is to believe in yourself and your capabilities. Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to take risks. Starting a business can be challenging, but it's important to have confidence in your ideas and your ability to execute them.
Additionally, surround yourself with a supportive network. Seek out mentors, join communities of like-minded entrepreneurs, and build relationships with individuals who can provide guidance and support. Having a strong support system can make a significant difference in your entrepreneurial journey.
Another crucial aspect is to continuously educate yourself and stay informed about your industry. Be open to learning and embrace new opportunities for growth. Stay updated on market trends, technology advancements, and best practices in business.
Lastly, don't be afraid to ask for help when needed. Starting a business can be overwhelming, and it's okay to seek guidance and support from others. Surround yourself with individuals who can provide expertise in areas where you may lack experience or knowledge.
To find out more about Zuri, contact Gisela Mudumbi Van Houcke via email: gisela@myzuri.com or visit the company’s website and social media platforms:
Website: https://myzuri.com/collections/all
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vhgisela/?locale=fr_FR
