by Catia Mondlane
Starting a business can seem challenging, but with passion and dedication, it's possible to turn an idea into a successful reality. The key lies in identifying a problem you can solve, developing an effective solution, and from there, building something that makes a difference in people’s lives. I'll share a bit about my personal journey, which began with my own struggle and transformed into a skincare business focused on oily and acne-prone skin.
My business started with myself. Since my teenage years, I struggled with acne and oily skin, which affected my self-esteem and confidence. I tried numerous treatments, from dermatological solutions to expensive products, but what truly worked for me was taking a more natural and organic approach. I discovered that acne was not just a superficial skin problem; it required treatment from the inside out. This led me to adjust my diet, balance my emotional state, and use natural products that I created myself. That’s how I developed my moringa leaf-based soap, which brought amazing results to my skin.
When I started seeing results from my soap on my own skin, I realised I had something bigger in my hands. People around me began to notice the transformation and asked what I was using. Gradually, what started as a personal solution became something others wanted to try as well. This initial interest validated that there was a market for what I was creating. With feedback from early users, I adjusted the formula and improved my products.
The key to any successful business is creating something that solves a real problem. In my case, I found that many people also struggled with oily and acne-prone skin and were searching for an effective and natural solution. I went beyond topical treatment, understanding that emotional balance and a healthy diet were essential to treating acne. With this, my business wasn’t just about selling soaps, but offering a holistic approach to skincare. Every product I develop aims to restore skin balance, starting from within.
After validating your idea and developing a valuable product, it’s time to plan for your business’s growth. This includes setting goals, developing a marketing strategy, and figuring out how you’ll deliver your solution to more people. In my case, I started with small productions and informal sales to friends and acquaintances, and then gradually expanded to a larger audience. Building an online presence was essential to reaching new clients and establishing my brand as a go-to for natural skincare solutions for oily and acne-prone skin.
Finally, entrepreneurship is a continuous process of learning and adaptation. What began with developing a natural soap has evolved into a full skincare line, always based on customer feedback and their needs. By staying up to date on trends and new techniques, I’m able to innovate and constantly improve what I offer. Success comes from the commitment to keep learning and improving what you do.
Starting a business may seem daunting at first, but with the right steps and a clear vision, you can turn your passion into a reality. Begin with what you know and love, validate your idea, create something that solves a problem, and keep evolving. If I could turn my skincare journey into a business, you too can take the first steps towards realising your dream. The important thing is to start – and never give up.
Cátia Mondlane is the CEO & Founder of Isabella – Estética & Cosméticos, an innovative Mozambican cosmetic company that brings natural skin solutions based on locally sourced organic and fresh ingredients. Her brand is especially for people with sensitive skin and who want to be kind to their skin at affordable prices. She is currently based in Maputo, Mozambique.
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