Ayanda had an idea and the passion to make it work. This bright young entrepreneur launched her own brand of holistic cosmetics in 2021 and has put in the hard work to make it a success. She now has her sights set on making Yanda a globally recognised brand.
What inspired you to start a cosmetic business?
I was inspired by my own experience with acne. Growing up with the condition really affected my confidence. I wanted to create something that would help people like me – products that don’t just treat the surface but also tackle the internal causes of skin issues and promote self-confidence.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what sparked your passion for cosmetics?
I’m a medical science student, so I’ve always been fascinated by how the body works and how different conditions develop. My skin struggles really pushed me to combine that passion for science with skincare. I wanted to create something that could really make a difference in people’s lives, helping them feel good both inside and out. The idea of balancing internal wellness with external beauty is at the core of what I do.
What is your role in the YouthX programme?
As one of the top three winners in 2023, I’ve had the opportunity to share my journey and experiences with others, especially young people who want to start their own businesses. I’m also actively working to grow Yanda Cosmetics, and being part of YouthX has given me the platform to network and collaborate with other amazing entrepreneurs.
What do you hope to achieve in your role in the YouthX platform?
I really want to inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter where they come from. It’s about showing young people that they can make a difference, even when faced with challenges. I also hope to continue expanding my brand, using this platform to reach more people and grow as an entrepreneur.
Why are initiatives like YouthX important to young people?
Programmes like YouthX are essential because they provide not only financial support but also mentorship, resources and opportunities. It’s not just about the money; it’s about the guidance and the community that help you navigate entrepreneurship.
What opportunity does a platform like YouthX offer to young people?
YouthX opens so many doors; it gives you visibility, connections and access to a network of like-minded individuals. You get to learn from others’ experiences and mistakes, which is incredibly valuable when you’re trying to build something from the ground up.
What advice would you give to youths who would like to be a part of an initiative like YouthX?
Be authentic and share your story because that’s what makes you unique. People are drawn to passion and realness, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and take risks.
What challenges have you faced on your journey, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was a lack of funding. At one point, I was making products in my home, trying to compete with established brands. Winning at the 2023 Nedbank YouthX awards gave me the boost I needed to bring my vision to life.
You’ve accomplished so much already – what would you say has been the most rewarding experience of your career so far?
Seeing the impact my products have on people’s lives has been the most rewarding. When customers come back to me saying how much their skin has improved or how they feel more confident, it’s priceless. It reminds me of why I started in the first place.
What role do you believe mentorship plays in helping young people succeed, and have there been key mentors in your life?
Mentorship is everything. Having someone to guide you, especially when you’re just starting out, can make all the difference and help you avoid costly mistakes. I’ve been fortunate to have an amazing mentor and trainer throughout my YouthX journey who has given me advice, support and the push I needed when I was doubting myself.
How do you stay motivated and focused when facing setbacks or obstacles?
I remind myself why I started in the first place. Setbacks are inevitable, but they also come with lessons, so I try to see them as opportunities for growth.
In your opinion, what skills or qualities are essential for success in today’s fast-evolving world?
Adaptability and resilience are key. Things change so quickly, especially in business, and if you’re not able to adapt and stay ahead of trends, you’ll get left behind. You also need to have resilience because entrepreneurship comes with a lot of ups and downs.
What would you say helps your brand stand out?
What makes Yanda Cosmetics unique is our holistic approach. Traditional products only treat the surface, masking the symptoms, but we believe real results come from balancing inner health with outer beauty. That’s why we’re developing products that don’t just work on your skin but also support your body from the inside. It’s something new for the South African market, and we’re excited about where it’s heading.
What advice would you give to young people who are aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
Stay focused on your vision and don’t let setbacks discourage you. It’s easy to get distracted by what other people are doing but stay true to yourself and trust the process.
What are your future goals, and where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In the next five years, I see Yanda Cosmetics expanding internationally and making a significant impact in the wellness and beauty space. I also want to grow my team, create more job opportunities and continue developing innovative products.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of young entrepreneurs like Ayanda and other inspiring individuals. Get your tickets now via Webtickets for YX24 to join the celebration of the top 10 YouthX Awards Winners. Be part of this exciting event that showcases the best of South Africa’s young talent and innovation in the fields of energy, technology, and entrepreneurship.