Lesego & Maria: Brains behind male grooming brand

Maria Banda & Lesego Mogopodi..
We chatted to Lesego Mogopodi and Maria Banda, the two businesswomen behind male grooming brand Ndevu. They tell us about how the company came to be and plans for the future.
Who are the people behind Ndevu?

Lesego Mogopodi is a 34-year-old woman who grew up in northern Johannesburg with a passion for impacting people and their intellectual and physical wellbeing

Free State-born Maria Banda is a 35-year-old and believes when you realise that you are in a position of influence, how are you going to positively impact the next individual. She loves reading books on personal and spiritual development.

 What inspired you to start Ndevu?

It all started from the concept of Nhuru, a natural hair product for women that was developed to nourish, grow and provide a manageable solution for natural hair.  As Nhuru was being introduced into the female market the men began to ask for male products, especially natural products to manage and maintain the male beard.

Tell us more about your business:

When did you start the business and how long has it been operating?

The business was conceptualised in 2017 and officially registered in 2018.

What kind of products do you offer?

The Ndevu Range: Male Beard Maintenance Product

The Beard Tonic and Beard Spray

How did you fund the business?

It is an owner-funded business.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

Ndevu is an extension of Nhuru and the concept. That is aimed to influence and positively impact the individuals. By proving naturally manufactured products that are beneficial to the human and environment.  To be a platform of social development.

Where are you based and how many people do you employ?

In Randburg. We have  2 full-time employees and 3 brand ambassadors.

How have you been received by consumers and the industry in which you operate?

Our consumers have received the product well, with a number of repeat customers. Within the industry, we are new players in the industries with a fresh and competitive edge.

What are your hopes for Ndevu?

To be the leading influential organisation that provides natural products and empowering social development programmes.
Where can people find you? 

Is there anything else you’d like people to know about you and Ndevu?

Conceptualising Ndevu has not been an easy journey however the feedback that we received during our research and development period kept us going. With every setback, we saw an opportunity for improvement. Our shared quality of being open-minded to advice and adapting to the situation eventually lead to the final successful product.

What is the one thing you’d say to young people out there who may be sitting on brilliant ideas?

You do not need millions to bring your concept to reality. Constantly talk about your product because you may never know who is listening that could be the break that you need. Research. hard work and persistence are the keys to success.

 

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