25-year-old entrepreneur and skincare enthusiast, Ashley Kadawo (AK) had to defy the odds through finding solutions to a long time problem that had brought her shame and pain from the time she was young.

My Afrika Magazine reporter, Sympathy Sibanda (SS), caught up with her as she discussed her skin and beauty therapy company, Ashine Beauty, as well as her upcoming new single.

SS: Welcome to My Afrika Magazine, a platform for celebrating African trailblazers. I am glad to host you today

AK: Thank you Sympathy, I am so excited about this feature which is my first ever.

SS: A first of many to come! It is my pleasure. Tell me, who is Ashley and take us through Ashine beauty.

AK: Ashley Kadawo, is the founder of Ashine Beauty, passionate about helping individuals achieve healthy, glowing skin. With a background in business administration and management, and as a certified skincare therapist and consultant, I am dedicated to providing expert guidance and natural, effective skincare solutions through Ashine Beauty.

SS: Tell us the story behind this success. What prompted you to start?

AK: My journey began with a personal struggle—living with eczema as a young girl. The challenges I faced while trying to fit in and feel confident in my own skin led me to discover the transformative power of makeup. While in school, I endured verbal bullying from people who would falsely diagnose me with various ailments just by looking at me. I felt isolated and ashamed of things I could not change. I used makeup to cover my scars and boost my self-esteem.

However, as I grew older, my passion for beauty evolved into a desire not just to cover up but to truly heal and care for my skin. This passion led me to create my own makeup and skincare brand four years ago, driven by a mission to help others achieve healthy, radiant skin and unlock their confidence. I took the bold step of turning my passion into a career by launching my own small business, marking the beginning of an exciting entrepreneurial journey.

SS: That was a bold move for someone in her early 20s at that time of inception!

AK: My focus was to provide solutions for others experiencing what I had gone through. I deeply understood their fears, pain, and sense of alienation from the community, so I vowed to help everyone with skin conditions as much as I could. Nothing could stop me from achieving that dream.

SS: Starting is really hard, how did you fund the business and keep the momentum going?

AK: Oh, when you have a vision, you work on it until it comes to fruition. My vision has always been to excel in the beauty industry, and I am proud to say that my business is a self-funded endeavor, built from the ground up through hard work and determination. My parents have been my greatest role models, instilling in me the values of perseverance and community. Growing up, they taught me that no matter the challenges or obstacles, I had the power to achieve my dreams. Their selflessness and commitment to family and community have inspired me to follow in their footsteps. I strive to make a positive impact through my business and beyond.

 SS: What challenges did you face and how did you overcome?

AK: One of the most significant hurdles I faced when starting my business was gaining acceptance from my family and society. My parents, who had envisioned a traditional career path for me in banking or corporate offices, struggled to understand my passion for the beauty industry. However, I remained resolute, driven by my mission to empower women to discover their true selves. There were times when self-doubt crept in, and I felt like giving up, but my faith and sense of purpose kept me going. As a young woman entrepreneur, I faced unique challenges, but I persevered. It has been a journey of growth, learning, and triumph.

SS: Take us through your achievements to date.

AK: One of my most cherished accomplishments has been the opportunity to share my knowledge and skills with over 300 women, empowering them to unlock their own potential. It is incredibly fulfilling to see many of these ladies go on to launch their own successful makeup businesses. My heart, however, belongs to those who feel like outcasts due to their unique skin concerns, particularly problematic skin. Having personally struggled with eczema and the emotional turmoil that comes with it, I feel a deep connection to these women. It brings me immense joy to know that my experiences, though once a source of pain, are now a catalyst for healing and transformation in the lives of others.

SS: What is your vision for Ashine Beauty in the next five years?

AK: I have many dreams. My vision for Ashine Beauty is to establish it as a global brand that empowers and supports individuals with problematic skin types. Our recently launched organic skincare range, specifically designed for sensitive skin, is just the beginning. We are excited to officially launch our comprehensive skincare line soon.

SS: What would be your advice for women who also want to start their business in the beauty industry?

AK: To women who aspire to start their own business, I offer this advice: have faith in yourself and your abilities. Do not be intimidated by the unknown or afraid to take calculated risks. When faced with setbacks, persevere and remember that every mistake is an opportunity for growth. Treat yourself with kindness, stay focused on your goals, and maintain a steadfast determination. You will be amazed at what you can achieve when you believe in yourself.

SS: I know you also have a single coming out soon? Just a statement on that?

AK: Oh yes, I have been in the music scene for a long time as a backing vocalist for people like Minister Michael Mahendere and Janet Manyowa, among others. I realised, God is also calling me to step out with a message calling on all people to have God in their hearts because he is the light of the world. People can follow my social media platforms @AshineBeauty for all updates.

SS: It was a pleasure having you Ashley. All the best in your endeavors.

AK: Always a pleasure Sympathy. Thank you.