Dry Skin and falling hair…
Rakhi Beekrum

Fashion found me
Indonifashionhouse

Why everyone needs a Business Coach?
Believe in yourself and your dreams
As women we juggle so many roles
Orobaa of Africa loves helping and guiding people through their skincare journey




Editor's Note
Women’s month often turns out to be a day of small gestures of thanksgiving and a light-hearted ‘happy womens ’ day posts But in actual fact, Women’s day is a very serious day which commemorates the women ’ s rights movement in South Africa Today we enjoy many freedoms that were fought for Today, the women ’ s human rights movement is still in progress, fighting for equal pay, for gender-based violence and social security in all spaces
We need to prioritise raising all children with equal rights, safety and promotion The month of August is also a tribute to the women in our lives that we are grateful for They teach us how to be excellent at our professions and in all institutions we are in (church, stokvels, corporate etc.) and be nurturers and lovers in our families
Thank you and Happy Women’s day to our founder and First Lady Zoh Mashabane, our lovely staff and most especially the women who have graced the covers of BIZ Discussions Magazine Halala Nzalabantu!





Previous issues
“Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women” Maya Angelou
Kwenzi Nkomo tells all on the creation of Indoni Fashion House, an afroluxe clothing brand

Kwenzi Nkomo has created an identifiable and afro-luxe fashion studio that oozes ‘over the top’ garments that are a mix of traditional and extravagant. The globally renowned fashion designer has received numerous accolades over her eleven year journey which started with her hand sewing her own clothes to now an award-winning brand that promises to keep growing.
In 2014,it was their first showcase at the Durban Fashion Flair which set a new pace for Kwenzi. She joined the DFF mentorship programme from then Indoni has been growing and widening its reach. Every year he launches her new designs and clothing lines at the DFF.

Fashion found me Fashion found me
The Lamontville-born Kwenzi used fashion to gain confidence and beauty, her unique designs made her the centre of attention and people around her wanted the clothes for themselves. Upon finishing school in New Hanover, she pursued Public Management and obtained that diploma. Little did she know that the interest other students had in her clothes, would birth this fabulous business. “The love for fashion was always in my heart”, she says.
Indoni began informally with personal clients and referrals, but with more traction, she then pursued formal education in fashion for which she has a diploma. Upon finishing she served as an intern at Urban Zulu. She took her time to learn the business, to research and study, there is so much value in that before branching out on your own.

Indeed, her journey from sewing by hand for her self into creating these luxurious couture items is applaudable, it is also inspiring Indoni Fashion is now a recognisable brand with international footprints.

Exploring more businesses Exploring more businesses
In the growth of Indoni, Kwenzi expanded her footprint and collaborated with five other talented designers from Durban in building The Fifth 031, which opened in March 2020. The Fifth is a collaboration between six of the best Durban designers, namely; – Nkosazane – Indoni Fashion House – Zaviar Ladies Wear – Silomo’s Boutique – Sibu Msimang – 8th Wanda. The Fifth Boutique supplies large clothing institutions with luxurious designs.
I am very inspired by women who are thriving in their businesses, whatever that business might be

Milestones along the Milestones along the way… way…
Indoni Fashion House has grown and the constant support from clients and celebrities ensures their sustainability. The founder has been eager to learn and to grow their business.
It is also noted that Indoni has constantly enjoyed its permanent residence at the DFF Emporium since its inception 2016. The brand owes its success to DFF show and Emporium for the constant belief in the brand.
Getting the opportunity to supply various boutiques in and around Durban is an achievement, from her backroom to now having multiple locations is a milestone
In 2021, iNdoni was the showstopper at the DFF as their jaw-dropping Collection paid homage to late King Zwelithini.
iNdoni’s fashion house was recognised as the best supplier and seller for the past four years at the KYD Boutique (recently closed)

The Fifth Boutique won the Best Designer of the Year award at the DFF 2020
Indoni now supplies garments to Edgars Sandton (JHB), Gateway (DBN) and Canal Walk (CPT)
Awards and nominations: Indoni has managed to participate and win in various competitions that they have entered into, such as Celebrate Durban fashion Show in 2010, Cohesion Day show in 2016 and DFF Best Ladies Wear Designer in 2019 Indoni has been nominated to showcase the brand both locally and internationally platforms, with the brand highlights on Pure London in 2018 and 2019 and Ethiopia Fashion Week 2019
Advice for the ones Advice for the ones coming along the coming along the

fashion runway fashion runway
If you really put your mind to it, it's going to happen. Respect your brand, Respect your clients and most importantly Respect your work in all aspects. Being an entrepreneur can be hard at times but just keep going and don't give up, excuses are not going to help at the end of the day
The fashion business is challenging and sometimes the trends are inconsistent, “we can have a very busy month and then a quiet month after that” says Kwenzi. The best way to market is to showcase their new designs at DFF and use social media but word of mouth remains the best.


https://www indonifashionhouse com/
The Indoni team?
We are a team of 7 in the studio. Kwenzi as the Director and head designer, our admin clerk, three eamstress, a pattern maker and a beader. Working efficiently to bring the designs to the people.
Produce with a promise by Sinesthembiso
SinesthembisoProduceisablack youthandwomanleadorganisat thatdoessmallscalefarmingand cropproductionlocatedat Ndwedwe.OwnedbySinethemba Masingathecompanyproduces sellsnuts,spinach,cabbageand manymore.Notonlyproducingfr produce,butmakingameaningfu impactinthecommunitywhilebe committedtosustainabilityand socialresponsibilityalignedwith environmentalconcerns.


Withtheaimofprovidinghealthy balancednutritionsolutionsforhe community,Sinethembasawaga foundalignedopportunitiestoad freshfoodscarcityinmycommun Malnutritionisoneofthemajor problemsinSouthAfricathatresu thedepreciatinghealthofmanyc Throughagoodandbalanceddie foodsecuritythehealthand competenceofmanycitizenswou increase Thatiswhereagricultura sciencecomesin,productionof reducingtheimpactonthe environment,“wearedeeplydedic toreducingourenvironmentalfoo andpromotingsustainablepracti throughoutouroperations”says founder.

Withadequateresearchandgaining someexperienceintheindustry,there wasenoughmotivetostartthisproduce business.Asapassionateyoungwoman withinthecommunity,thisbusiness wouldallowforanoverallpositiveimpact ontheNdwedwecommunity

Happy moments along th
1.Solidifyingourfootingonthef market
Thisyearwewereableto wass formalmarket.Thiswasapivota momentwhenwerealizedthato werepayingoff,andourbusines wasontherighttrack.
2.Diningwiththepresident Wewereinvitedtoagaladinner PresidentofSouthAfrica,therec meantalottous Thesemilesto reinforcedourbeliefinthepoten ourbusinessandfurtherfueled determinationtosucceed.
3.ThumbsUpfromthecommun
Thepositivefeedbackandsupp receivedfromourearlycustome partnersvalidatedourideaand encouragedustocontinue.Witn thepositiveimpactourproducts hadonourcustomers'livessolid convictionintheimportanceof weredoing.Lastly,seeingthegr sustainabilitypotentialofthebu reinforcedthatwewereonther
Wearegratefulforthesupportw receivedsofar,andwelookforw brightfuturefilledwithgrowth,in andpositivechange.
Sheaimsthatoneday,thepotentialgrowth ofSinesthembisoProducehasthechance tocontributetosustainableagriculture werealsomotivatingfactorsinchoosing thisbusiness


Advice for a new young farmer out there
Passion|Perseverance|Adaptability
Sinethemba has three essential things she wishestoadviseupandcomingfarmers: Passion will fuel your drive and keep you committed during challenging times Perseverance will be crucial in overcoming obstacles and setbacks, as building a business is not always smooth sailing. Adaptability is essential in an everchanging market; be willing to adjust your strategies and offerings to meet the needs ofyourcustomersandtheindustry
Dear 15 year old me:
"Believe in yourself and your dreams Don't be afraid to take risks and embrace challenges.Everyfailureisanopportunityto learn and grow stronger. Stay true to your values and never compromise on integrity. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who will lift you higher. Mostimportantly,rememberthatsuccessis notalwaysaboutthedestination;enjoythe journeyandthelessonsitbrings.
The weeds of building a business uncertaintyinthecurrenteconomy
One of the significant challenges is the constant uncertainty and risk associated with entrepreneurship. There are times when you have to make tough decisions without knowing the outcome, and that canbedaunting.
FinancesandCapital
Managing the financial aspects of the business, especially during the early stages, canbedemanding
Asanentrepreneur,youwearmultiplehats and handle various responsibilities in the business, which can be overwhelming at times However,despitethechallenges,the rewards and satisfaction of building something meaningful outweigh the difficulties
Getting out there:
We utilize a mix of marketing strategies to promoteourbusiness.

Socialmediahasbeenavaluabletoolfor us in reaching our target audience and building a strong online presence The platforms allow for direct contact with theconsumers.
We also invest in digital marketing, content creation, and email campaigns to maintain engagement and attract newcustomers.
We leverage networking opportunities, industry events, and word-of-mouth referrals to expand our reach and build lastingrelationships.
The Sinesthembiso Produce Team

The team is comprised of highly dedicatedandskilledindividualswhoare passionate about our vision Currently, we have 4 team members working in variousroles.Eachteammemberplaysa crucial part in our success, and their expertise contributes to the growth and efficiencyofouroperations.
We actively support and empower local communities by creating job opportunities and engaging in initiatives that uplift the underprivileged. Our mission is not only about business success but also about making a positive impact on the world aroundus.
we aim to be a driving force in creating positive change in our industry and community Whats next for Sinesthembiso ?

Sinethemba and her team aim to keep growing and expanding their impact geographicallyandinthemarket.
With new technology and innovation they aim to utilise artificial inteligence and other fourthindustrialrevolutionadvancementsto enhancetheagriculturalbusinessandkeep themcompatible


Sinethemba has a clear focus on sustainability and social impact of the business, “we aim to be a driving force in creatingpositivechangeinourindustryand community”, says the founder, “we are confident that with our passionate team and strategic plans, the business will continue to thrive and make a meaningful difference”.


Who inspires you?
I look up to Mbali Nwoko as my source of inspirationandaspiration.Shehasachieved remarkable success in the agricultural industry, and their dedication, innovative mindset, and commitment to making a differencehavealwaysinspiredme.
Additionally, the determination and resilience displayed by many successful entrepreneurs alsomotivatemetokeeppushingboundaries and striving for excellence in my own endeavours
sinethemba zwan
Sinethemba Zwane
0678885643
Rakhi Beekrum’s Words of wisdom for women


Rakhi Beekrum is a counselling psychologist based in Durban North. With over 14 years of experience as a counselling psychologist. She has spent her career consulting with outpatients in her practice (or online) and in medical and psychiatric hospitals.. Her current focus is on outpatient individual and couples therapy as well as professional speaking and corporate wellness.
With it being Women’s Month, she has shared some words of wisdom for women who might be struggling to find sparks of joy in their daily lives, inspired by one of her favourite quotes:
We are all born with a beautiful light in us. Sometimes as life gets serious and we get caught up in the stressors of life we might forget this light. When we are young and before we’re even aware of how difficult life can be, the light is a lot more obvious in us.
Depending on our life circumstances and experiences we might forget about our inner light. As we are conditioned to work harder to be a better student, daughter, wife or mother etc , the focus is no longer on us, but on everyone else, we are meant to be there for.
Nothing can dim the light that shines from within.
– Maya Angelou
Several things make us forget our inner light. Firstly, as women we juggle so many roles–wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, employer, employee - depending on your circumstances there might be many more. And as women, we are conditioned to believe that our self-worth is based on what we do for others. Don’t get me wrong – it’s good to do good for others. However, it should never be at the expense of our joy or mental health.
Most of us were raised with role models who cared for others first. Self-care was unheard of –so it makes complete sense if you’ve grown into an adult who feels guilty when doing something for YOU. If you just think of every single person that depends on you, imagine what would happen to them if you fell apart. So we must realise that by taking care of you, you ensure that those you love get the best of you!

The cost of toxic relationships

Something else that dims our light is when we are consistently surrounded by those who steal our joy. You must have heard this saying – you become like the people you spend most of your time with. So choose carefully who you surround yourself with. Toxic relationships can sap our energy and rob us of our joy. When we speak of toxic relationships, we somehow think of romantic relationships. But we can have toxic relationships with anyone -friends, colleagues and even family.
The easiest way to recognize if any of our relationships is toxic is to notice how you feel after spending time with people – then consider whether you like who you are in different relationships in your life.
Toxic relationships take a few different forms –relationships in which you give a lot more than you receive in return, relationships in which the other person is overtly mean to you, relationships where you are gaslit, relationships where you bond over gossip, fair weather relationships (where they are only there for the good times), relationships that are competitive and relationships in which you are put down.
Not everyone has the emotional maturity to repair toxic relationships, so we must be mindful that we only address issues with someone if we are sure that they have the emotional capacity to even consider what we are saying, without being defensive In some relationships, physical distance may not be possible – so our only option is emotional distance In such instances, we can choose how much personal information we share.

Do

We get so caught up in the stressors of life and our responsibilities towards others, that we forget to do little things for ourselves.
Start with doing the very basics of getting adequate good quality sleep, making better nutritional choices, moving your body, resting, praying or meditating and doing little things that help you to feel like yourself again. Even if all you have is 20 minutes in a day, claim that for yourself. Treat yourself as you would treat your best friend.
As we grow and become more authentic, we will outgrow people. As we learn to love and accept ourselves, we might no longer be able to tolerate relationships that are superficial. The genuine friendships are those that make the light in us shine brighter. The people that we choose should celebrate our light and not feel a need to dim it. Living inauthentically will also dim your light because you are not being true to yourself.
We sometimes stay quiet about things that matter because we don’t want to rock the boat Staying in relationships where our needs are not met and where we don’t feel valued will naturally dim our light. All relationships ebb and flow.
Rakhi Beekrum - Psychologist rakhibeekrum
little things that keep the spark in you alive.
When we find the light within ourselves, we also become the light for those around us when they experience darkness.
Skin and hair problems are some of the most common issues both women and men go through
They are the hardest things to get a handle on and many will try many products for decades with no luck.

Skin and hair problems are some of the most common issues both women and men go through They are the hardest things to get a handle on and many will try many products for decades with no luck. Akosua odamea Railston-Brown (Akos for short) is the founder and the formulator of Orobaa products. An organic skin and haircare brand that is inspired by our heritage, providing natural beauty sourced from within Africa and handcrafted for a global citizen

Orobaa simply means ‘Women’s Gold’ and after using these products, you will also feel like gold We are a natural skincare, haircare and selfcare brand We formulate our products with natural ingredients all sourced within Africa.


BuildingOrobaa–scienceand traditioncombined.

Ghanaian teacher, Akos, had struggled with her hair and skin after moving to South Africa in 2014, and decided to import some African Black Soap and Shea Butter to assist with flaky dry skin and hair falling off Little did she know, that soon her brand would grow and help thousands of people

This is how Orobaa was born, a simple solution for herself and others like her, “I was going to live in South Africa for a long period, I figured that the only way I can help myself and others who suffer from the same problem is by importing pure authentic African Black Soap and Shea Butter from Ghana The few people I shared the products with were very happy and requested me to sell them” she tells us

“I embarked on this journey and started looking deeper into formulating to ensure the products suit the rainbow nation I registered for a course to gain scientific knowledge, technical skills in addition to my traditional knowledge and skills I put the science and tradition together without destroying the phytonutrients of African Black Soap and Shea Butter to help skin and hair I learned the different hair and skin variations. This ensured that my products would suit the concern and work perfectly ”-Akos
DrySkinandfallinghair…
The field of dermatology definitely needed Akos’s products to address some key problems Between very dry skin, damage caused by abusing other products, thinning hair and challenge people had faced for decades, Orobaa came with an organic and quick-fixing solution. “I started the business informally in 2016, it was a no brainer, I knew exactly what I had to do There was no way I was going to sit back and watch people suffer while I have access to something that would bring them relief. I had to continue bringing these products to help my brothers and sisters gain their confidence back in their skin and hair” she says.
Winsalongtheway-Peoples
PositiveOutcomesreallykeep usmotivated
The value of changing people’s lives is what motivates Akos to keep growing Especially when clients come in with lost hope after suffering from inflammation on the skin and scalp, one for over 20 or 40 years. They feel hopeless and want to give up Then Orooba products gives them results. It keeps up the motivation and joy and strength to go on

Bewitched? I do not think so
Orobaa products helped a lady with heavily inflamed hands and feet with blisters oozing with fluid. She thought she was bewitched Within 4 days of using our products the hands and feet were relieved from the infections and dark marks She felt confident to wear any outfit, including shorts and sleeveless tops.
Atheletes Foot?
We also had a client who had athlete's foot for over 8 years, his toes were almost falling off After using our products for 2 months, 8 toes were clear and clean
Growing the business that helps others. Creating employment for the South African youth is also another milestone that makes me feel very proud of how far the business has grown.
WhychooseOrobaa?

We don’t do a single approach or a ‘ one size fits all’ for helping clients, we first listen to your story to know about your lifestyle so that if the trigger for your skin or hair problem is internal
We will advise on diet or lifestyle change so that you will glow from the inside out
It is not every skin or hair problem that can be treated with topical products only. The internal and external approach will speed up the healing process. We also follow up on our clients to see if they are using the products correctly. We encourage them to understand their own skin’s voice in order to take their skin’s health into their own hands.

Growinginthenaturalbeauty industry
Marketing
We keep our marketing strategy simple, authentic and share client’s testimonials so that people won’t hear only from us how the products work Word of mouth, has helped Orobaa so much. When happy clients see positive results, they talk about our brand and our products Those who see their skin or scalp heal, they ask questions about us and also come to try the products We market our brand and products on social media, highend markets, our website and by collaborating with other businesses.
Advicefortheonesfollowinginour footsteps…
Define your purpose
What problems do you want to solve? When you have a strong reason and a clear vision, you will not give up when challenges come. You will know who your target audience is and you will use the right ingredients to solve those problems
It will help with also selecting the right ingredients that won’t block pores, but rather penetrate through to the deeper layer of the skin to do its work effectively
Aesthetics must align
Keep your formulations and packaging simple If you are natural, go for natural colours for your labels and packages so that they will reflect the content of your packages
Maintain your quality standards
The market is so saturated, if you don’t have a niche that makes you stand out from your competitors it will be hard for you to sell
Know your market Research! Learn your craft

When you start formulating as a hobby, your formulations are not perfect They improve over time Take the time to investigate and study (formally) the key ingredients you want use to formulate your products. Don’t follow trends. Make sure the ingredients are authentic and that they’ll make your brand stand out

Enrolling on a course to study the science of the skin, scalp and hair will be highly beneficial especially to those who want to pursue a formal business and get their products on the shelves
Never compromise on your ingredients, quality is key Don’t go for ingredients that are cheap with no phytonutrients just to make more money. Always use ingredients that will help your clients find effective solutions to their skin and hair problems They will come back for more and refer their family and friends.
Advicefortheonesfollowing inourfootsteps…
Orobaa is not my first business When I was in Ghana I had a pig farm, which had about 400 pigs. It was a successful business and I won a District Award within two years of running it. It was less challenging for me
But I have to admit that starting a business in a different environment and country was very challenging for me My challenges include:
Human Resources

Managing people from a different culture is not easy and can be time consuming. I have found myself spending more time and effort managing people than managing the business.
Finances
The lack of capital to buy the needed machines has been stressful. With the business starting handcrafted products, we only used a hand whisk The exponential growth required us to upgrade at a fast pace. The growth required us to speed up our production for our supply to meet the demand of our clients. We aim to purchase all the equipment required we need to make production more efficient
What’snextforOrobaa?
We would like to see the business grow locally and internationally while remaining authentic To expand our target market other provinces in the short-term goal and globally in the long term
TheOrobaateam
Orobaa is a small business consisting of 7 team members, the women being the majority. As Publilius Syrus says “where there is unity there is always victory” We are a great team and work in unity to get things done to ensure the smooth running of the business Orobaa would not have made it this far and reached its milestones without the contribution of each team member


WhoisyourrolemodelAkos?


My late father is the one I look up to and aspire to be like. He was wise, hardworking, influential and a problem-solver He nurtured me to work hard, to be strong and resilient, to make smart decisions in life and to believe in myself and my potential. He hated laziness and procrastination His favourite phrase was “action now!”.
He taught me that life’s rewards go to those who let their actions rise above their excuses Therefore, any ideas my mind conceptualises I must take action immediately to turn them into a reality All I need is to start now and use what I have This life lesson he taught me has helped me in all areas of my life including starting and managing my business

Running your own business can feel like you constantly being pulled in multiple direction every day is busy, it's tough to know if you ' re the right approach to reaching your goals A business coach may be a solution for you, y have to go it alone A business coach can ge the support that you need. Whether your bu facing challenges, or you just want to take it next level, a business coach will support you and provide you with a blueprint for success
There are three key reasons why most found need a business coach. Mainly for accounta probe you to take action and to foster result your business. Coaching is a specialised offe business coach offers proven methods, tact and insight you and your business needs. Th assist you to achieve professional, financial personal growth.





Accountability
A busines you can also hold have to a get sidet through motivate you while also keeping you accountable and tracking your progress.
Take Action
I will challenge you to explore who you are, what you want, and build an action plan specifically for you. Just talking is not enough! You will experiment with new ways of doing things, to see what works for you. My belief is that "What got you here won't get you there" which means your actions have to be different for a new result.

Get Results
Whether you’re just getting started with your business, or you are decades in or you need to know which steps to take to scale sustainably, business coaching can help with gaining clarity, confidence, and direction. I partner with you to give you the accountability, support and push you need to set yourself up to get the right results. I will help you to understand what choices you have, and what you can and can't control.
At it’s most basic, business coaching allows you to dive into the challenges you’re currently facing as a business owner and unpack solutions and tactics that you can begin implementing immediately, all with the guidance (and accountability!) of someone who has helped hundreds of business owners and knows what works, what doesn’t and what’s worth investing your time and money in.


HOWDOESITWORK?
Step 1 First Contact Call – Discovery & Clarity



Step 2 Decision Call
Step 3 Onboarding

Step 4 Coach Preparation
Step 5 Your First Coaching Session
Step 6 Ongoing Coaching Session
Step 7 Feedback
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DENTAL IMPLANTS
TEETH WHITENING
DENTALVENEERS
GENERALDENTISTRY


SAMEDAYSMILES
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DIGITALSMILEDESIGN–DSD

DIGITALDENTISTRY

ORALHYGIENIST
CLEARALIGNERS&ADULTORTHODONTICS
South African Aerobics
saaerobics
Addressing your fitness goals and health and wellness needs through aerobics workouts.

- Founded by Mr. Tumelo Mangwegape in 2018

- Official SAAerobics Operation in 2021
Client Service Driven

Toured 7 Provinces in South Africa
Visited Botswana, Eswatini
Over 50 Aerobathon Events Broadcasted Multiple Local Gyms Visited
Specializing in the things we do best:
Full coverage of aerobathon event which consists of group fitness exercises to cater for all age groups.
Local gym visits across the country for individuals who are interested to keep fit through aerobics.
Online Marketing to promote large and medium aerobathon to maximize the participants capacity and encourage masses to keep fit and healthy.
SAAerobics means South African Aerobics in short.
We've broadcasted multiple aerobathon (competitive aerobics workout) which adapted the following key aerobics workouts:
Cardio Box | Functional | High Impact workout
Aero-dance | Zumba workout
Step Aerobics | Kata Step | Functional Step workout
HISLIDA (High Intensity Step and Low Intensity Dance Amalgamtion) - NEW





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