Charmagne Mavudzi is highly educated and creative. She used her creativity to start an innovative business – 360 Mobile Salon. We speak to her about entrepreneurship, education and how her passion led her to the beauty industry.
Please tell us about yourself
I’m a 26-year-old lady passionate about entrepreneurship, the beauty industry and female youth empowerment. I’m creative at heart, a go-getter and believe in hard work, consistency and self-love.
What did you study and why?
I have a Bcom in management degree, majoring in marketing and entrepreneurship. My love for marketing and creation informed my choice of study. I was born an entrepreneur, and seeing an idea come to life is fulfilling for me; so merging entrepreneurship with marketing was the best way to get the best of both worlds. I also completed my MBA in entrepreneurship.
Tell us more about your business.
My business was a project I worked on while doing my MBA. I used to own a salon, so that led to me identifying a need for women who do not have the patience or time to go to an actual salon. I therefore decided to simplify home hairdressing and make it more convenient. Customers can book services, pay online and have our technicians deliver the service to their doorsteps. We offer services such as make-up, nails, massages and hairdressing, and cater for both genders.
Tell us more about your experience on the entrepreneurship show Dragons’ Den?
I heard about the show when I was doing my MBA. I applied as a joke and, before I knew it, I was presenting my business in front of the most influential and inspiring entrepreneurs in the country. I never thought they would fund me, but they saw something I didn’t see in myself.
What challenges do you face as a female entrepreneur?
As a female entrepreneur, it can be difficult for people to take you seriously at times; and that’s one of the things that makes entrepreneurship such a lonely and tough journey. However, for me, that challenge only motivated me to learn more and remain determined.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a beauty entrepreneur?
They must learn about the industry first and make sure they will offer products or services that add value to people’s lives. The industry is becoming competitive, so an entrepreneur needs to learn to put in the work and be patient because a business is not built overnight.
Would you advise someone to study before entering the industry?
Yes, because education is a powerful tool that gives insight on many things. Another important thing to note is that they must align their studies and business goals because the doors that will open from that will often shock them.
What can people expect from you and your brand?
More quality, consistency and innovation.
Who or what inspires you?
My parents. My father is a determined go-getter. He is also an entrepreneur and raised me to be independent and ambitious. My mother is my rock because she’s the strongest and most spiritual woman I know. She is also a balanced human being, and I aspire to be a balanced and inspiring female entrepreneur.
