Nadia Nakai opens up about the challenges and rewards of running her own business
Rapper, reality star, and now entrepreneur, Nadia Nakai is showing fans a different side of her life, one that goes beyond the stage and screen and dives deep into the world of business.
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From beats to business
The “Bragga” star took to Instagram to give a glimpse of her entrepreneurial journey, walking through the Mall of Africa on her way to check on her Naked Without make-up kiosk. It’s a world where the spotlight fades, replaced by the demands of stock management, sales oversight, and customer service.
“Starting a business, running a business, it has to be the scariest thing I’ve ever done in my whole career, but also the most fulfilling,” Nakai said.
Owning a business, she explained, involves juggling responsibilities she never anticipated. From ensuring product availability to managing sales reps and even down to the smallest details like bags and tissue paper, Nakai says it’s been a learning adventure.
“It is so fulfilling, but scary at the same time,” she added, reflecting on the balancing act between passion and responsibility.
Gratitude and growth
Despite the challenges, Nakai’s entrepreneurial journey has been meaningful. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to steer her own brand, describing the experience as eye-opening and transformative.
“I just want to give appreciation to God for allowing me to have an opportunity like this. To say that I’m running my own business is crazy, but I think it’s a big learning adventure.”
The Naked Without brand, which Nakai launched in December 2023, continues to grow as she balances her rap career, reality TV commitments, and the demands of business ownership.
Balancing fame and enterprise
Nakai is not only a businesswoman but also a reality star. Her show, “Beyond Bragga”, is now in its second season and earned her a nomination at the National Film & TV Awards for “Best Celebrity Personality.” She went head-to-head with prominent figures like Khanyi Mbau, Ayanda Thabethe, The Funny Chef, and Anele Mdoda, although Lawrence Maleka ultimately took home the award.
For Nakai, the recognition serves as a reminder that her career is multifaceted—an ongoing balancing act between music, television, and business.
A new kind of spotlight
Running a business has opened a new chapter for Nakai, one that she describes as both humbling and empowering. As she navigates the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, she is proving that success in entertainment can translate into real-world ventures, inspiring fans and fellow artists alike to chase their own dreams beyond the stage.
“This journey has taught me so much about patience, leadership, and taking responsibility. It’s a whole new world,” Nakai reflected, showing that even for a superstar, the grind never stops—on stage or off.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X{@YouthVillageSA}
