When Unathi Mpotulo 
struggled to find work after completing her studies, she refused to let disappointment define her future. Instead, she turned her passion for beauty into a business that has grown from a backroom salon into a thriving enterprise serving clients across Qumrha in the Eastern Cape.
The 38-year-old entrepreneur passed her matric and completed an N6 qualification in Financial Management at the East Cape Midlands Technical and Vocational Education and Training College in 2019.
Like many young South Africans, Mpotulo found it difficult to secure in-service training and an entry-level job. She joined her family catering business while exploring other opportunities.
Driven by her love for the hair and beauty industry, Mpotulo launched Black Beauty Nail Bar from a backroom in her family home in December 2019.
Just three months later, disaster struck.
The COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions introduced in March 2020 forced her to close the business until the beauty sector was allowed to operate again.
Rather than giving up, she persevered.
"I was the first person to offer nail-care services in this small town of Qumrha. The demand for my services grew and, as a result, in March 2021, I had to move from our family backroom flat to a bigger place in town," she said.
The move brought new challenges. Operating from town meant paying rent and covering additional business expenses.
"Some clients preferred to have their nails done after hours, and that became a security risk because I had to walk home late at night. These factors forced me to return to the township, where I rented a two-room flat," she explained.
As her client base continued to grow, Mpotulo took another step forward. In December 2024, she relocated to the newly established Zone 10 township, where she now rents an entire four-room house for her business.
The move allowed her to expand beyond manicures and pedicures. Today, Black Beauty Nail Bar also offers hairstyling, body massages and hair products, including weaves. She also provides house-call services to clients in and around Qumrha.
During busy periods, Mpotulo employs local young people, giving them an opportunity to earn an income and gain experience in the beauty industry. She hopes to create two permanent jobs.
SEDFA support
For years, she funded the business from her own pocket. That changed in August 2026 when Mpotulo received equipment and materials through support from the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA).
The support included massage beds, a generator, hair dryers, nail dryers, washing basins, foot massage tubs and other equipment needed to expand her services.
Mpotulo has no intention of stopping there.
"I want to move out of my comfort zone and open branches in Ku-Gompo (previously known as East London), Butterworth and Dutywa. I have established myself in Qumrha and want a new challenge while creating more opportunities for young people through the beauty sector," she said.
Her long-term dream is to establish fully equipped beauty centres offering multiple services under one roof.
Mpotulo has a message for aspiring entrepreneurs.
"To every young woman out there, I encourage you to start something government will meet you along the way. There are opportunities out there; we just need to match our passion with education, and the rest will fall into place."
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