Bloemfontein businesswoman Mamello Makha has been crowned one of Africa’s 100 Iconic Personalities of the Year.
Makha also scooped the coveted Africa’s Under-40 CEO of the Year award at the prestigious 2025 Iconic Personalities Awards, which honoured excellence across 54 African nations.
This remarkable achievement solidifies Makha’s position as a trailblazer in the beauty and fashion industry, transforming her passion into a global brand that inspires and empowers.
Speaking to Sunday World, Makha shared her joy. “This recognition is humbling and empowering. It’s a testament that dreams can come true with faith, resilience, and consistency.
“This is for every young woman from communities like mine in Bloemfontein, proving that no dream is too big.”
Business growing in Gauteng
Makha’s rise to glory began with the launch of Mamello Makha Exotic Beauty Salon in 2013.
The business venture now boasts five branches across Gauteng, alongside MM Innovation and Projects and Mamello Makha Exotic Boutique.
Key achievements, such as styling music sensation Makhadzi for the BET Awards, partnering with the Metro FM Awards and Motsepe Foundation AFI, and showcasing her talent at the Dubai Beauty Expo, have propelled her to this prestigious recognition.
“It’s about excellence and empowering others, especially young women,” she told Sunday World.
Being celebrated on a continental stage is a game-changer for Makha.
“It’s an honour to see my work in South Africa resonate across Africa. This elevates my brand and inspires others to embrace African excellence.”
The awards amplify her vision to take her brand global, with ambitious plans for 2025, including launching a luxury beauty studio, a signature product line, and an academy to mentor aspiring stylists and entrepreneurs.
Investing in partnerships
Makha’s path hasn’t been without challenges.
“Breaking into a saturated market and earning trust in new locations was tough. Going global meant investing in education, partnerships, and innovation while staying authentic,” she said.
Her faith, vibrant personality, and love for football, with the mantra, “the stadium is my happy place”, keep her grounded.
To manage the stress of entrepreneurship, she relies on rest, reflection, and a supportive team that shares her vision.
Funding her empire required savvy and sacrifice. “I started with personal savings, reinvesting every cent,” Makha shared.
She also tapped into local entrepreneurial programmes for resources and exposure.
What guidance does Makha offer prospective beauty entrepreneurs? “Know your numbers, stay disciplined, and build a brand that speaks for itself. Excellence attracts opportunity.”
Beauty academy in the pipeline
Makha’s success hinges on her team. “I hire for passion and integrity,” she explained. “Skills can be taught, but alignment with my values is non-negotiable.”
To maintain consistency, she fosters a collaborative culture through open communication, mentorship, and celebrating wins.
“Leading by example and creating a space where everyone feels valued keeps the team motivated,” she added.
Looking ahead, Makha is poised to make waves in 2025.
“I’m launching an academy to train young women in beauty and entrepreneurship, hosting masterclasses, and expanding internationally.
“This is about scaling with purpose and taking African beauty to the world,” she said.
