Beauty undeniably resides in the eyes of the beholder, yet achieving a radiant and confident appearance requires relentless effort. It begins with nurturing one’s skin and adhering to grooming standards that resonate with self-worth. In the realm of business, image is paramount; as the adage goes, “Dress the way you want to be addressed,” underscoring the profound impact of presentation on the journey to self-actualisation.
Yet, many men and women grapple with confidence due to various skin concerns. Whether faced with oily complexions, damage from unsuitable products, or the scars of bleaching, the struggle is real. Enter Dorcas Nyikadzino, a fervent beauty expert and founder of Ice & Dee Glowing Store, who is revolutionizing the beauty landscape with her profound commitment to restoring confidence.
“Ice & Dee Glowing specialises in reviving your self-assurance through meticulously tailored oils that ensure your skin is beautifully toned. Be it acne, hyperpigmentation, or previous damage, we provide the essential solutions,” she passionately asserts.
A proud mother of three, Nyikadzino's foray into the beauty industry was sparked by the unexpected loss of her job.
“I grew up in rural Hurungwe, where life was a relentless struggle. We fought for basics, including uniforms, and grappling with exam fees was a constant battle. The first time I ever boarded a bus was after my Ordinary Level exams,” she said.
After securing a job in Harare, fate dealt her an unfortunate hand when she was unceremoniously dismissed resulting in a burning desire to start something of her own towards self-sustenance.
“The unwarranted job dismissal prompted a turning point for me. I began buying and selling, and as my influence in the community grew, my clients encouraged me to explore beauty products,” she said.
Inspired by the renowned South African beauty and glow expert, Portia M., Nyikadzino dedicated herself to learning the art of creating beauty oils online.
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“Initially, I ventured into selling Indian sweets but gradually shifted focus as clients demanded beauty products. The knowledge I lacked was soon bridged through relentless research and determination,” she explains.
What began with a modest US$20 investment has blossomed into a highly sought-after beauty enterprise with a formidable global presence. Nyikadzino proudly embraces her company's motto, “Hakuna Mukadzi Akashata” (No woman is ugly), which epitomises her mission to empower women through beauty.
From launching with merely two products in 2016, her company has expanded into a nationwide phenomenon with branches in Harare, Bulawayo, Kwekwe, Gweru, Mutare, Masvingo, and Beitbridge, among others.
“In Harare alone, we boast three branches located at Margolis Plaza, Harare, and Speke, with a newly opened outlet at Shasha Mall,” she intimated.
Despite the challenges and negativity surrounding her journey, Nyikadzino has remained undeterred and has continued pushing boundaries with her quality beauty products.
“I didn’t cease selling, researching, and refining my beauty products. Today, they are available throughout Zimbabwe and extend to other parts of Africa, including Tanzania and South Africa, as well as the UK and Australia. The support we have received has been invaluable,” she emphasizes.
With over ten shops across Zimbabwe and a workforce of more than 60 individuals, Nyikadzino is a beacon of opportunity.
“It’s crucial for women to seize opportunities as they arise and to continually educate themselves to acquire essential skills.
Never stop learning and remember whatever your situation, you can always start where you are with what you have. The possibilities are endless in this journey of life,” she shared.
“When I left home, I had only managed to pass five subjects. Yet, as my business flourished, I sought further education in fields ranging from nursing to business management and cosmetology. All of this learning has been pivotal to my growth,” she said.
Nyikadzino’s motivation remains deeply rooted in the desire to uplift her life and the lives of her family back home.
“I have always been acutely aware of my impoverished background. The drive to break that cycle of poverty and create a better future for my family has been my guiding light.
My drive is that of defying odds and shrugging adversity and I am not stopping at anything until my dream becomes too big to be ignored locally, regionally and globally,” she shared.
Nyikadzino’s faith serves as her foundation. “In all that I do, my faith keeps me resilient. My unwavering trust in God has guided me through,” she says, reflecting on her spiritual journey.
As many women contend with skin and beauty issues, Nyikadzino reiterates that her company stands as an ally.
“True to my motto, no woman is ugly. You simply need to discover the right products,” she confidently states. She expresses heartfelt gratitude to her loyal clients and family for their unwavering support: “My journey has been infused with challenges, yet the encouragement from my clients and loved ones has been tremendously uplifting.”
With aspirations to see her products available in pharmacies worldwide, Nyikadzino emphasises her commitment to charitable endeavours and empowering women.
“My ambition is to have our products sold in every pharmacy around the globe, emulating the success of established global brands. Moreover, I prioritise women empowerment in my business, employing a workforce that is 90% female. I also engage in charitable initiatives, donating to street children and the elderly, and I plan to contribute to local schools in my rural community,” she shares with resolve.
Through her indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication, Dorcas Nyikadzino is not merely reimagining beauty; she is igniting a transformative movement that resonates far beyond the industry, inspiring countless individuals in the process.
