Nomahlubi Nompunga is a visionary entrepreneur and cosmetic formulation scientist from Cape Town her company uniquely bridges science, sustainability, and economic empowerment across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
The SADC is a regional economic community consisting of 16 member countries in Southern Africa, working together to promote development, peace, and economic integration.
She is the founder of Foi Science (Pty) Ltd, which produces organic and natural skincare, feminine care, and botanical remedies using biopolymers derived from food waste and African medicinal plants. Biopolymers are natural materials created by plants, animals, or other living organisms.
“I was inspired to start the business because I wanted to merge scientific innovation with social impact, leveraging indigenous knowledge and sustainable practices to empower communities,” Nompunga explained.
Established in July 2015 with funding from the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), and Villgro Africa, Foi Science integrates science, agriculture, and medicine by transforming food waste and African medicinal plants into valuable products.
“Its patented biopolymer technology, refined over three years, transforms agricultural waste into sustainable materials for skincare, wound care, and botanical remedies. By collaborating with rural communities and incorporating indigenous knowledge, Foi Science ensures cultural relevance,” she said.
Among its offerings is the Soul Bloom Botanical range, which combines African herbs such as rooibos and mucuna with Ayurvedic ingredients like ashwagandha, addressing joint pain, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and menopause.
“Currently, the Soul Bloom Botanical range is detailed at soulbloombotanical.co.za. These products will also be sold through RaphaMarket, which we are launching in September, where resellers can earn a 10% commission,” she added.
Foi Science also produces the Rapha skincare range, including soaps, ointments, salves, and balms, available on https://skinwise.co.za, offering personalised skincare plans. Additionally, SheReclaims (shereclaims.life) supports mental wellness, hormonal health, and economic empowerment.
The products are distributed via an e-commerce platform with branches in Ghana, Kenya, Zambia, and South Africa, allowing Foi Science to export widely within the SADC region and beyond.
Nompunga holds a National Diploma in Polymer Technology from Nelson Mandela University, a BTech in Polymer Technology from Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), and an Advanced Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation Science from the University of Cape Town. She is currently pursuing an Advanced Master’s degree in Allergology, focusing on allergies. Her credentials also include Paint Technology Certificates from the South African Paint Manufacturing Association and a Certificate in E-commerce and Digital Marketing.
Her professional experience includes roles as a Chemical Process Operator at Unilever, Junior Lab Manager at Tshwane University of Technology (CSIR campus), and Trainee Plastic Technologist at A&E Nelplastics, showcasing her expertise in chemical processes, cosmetic formulation, and biopolymer technology.
BRICS women programme and G20 expansion
In 2022, Nompunga joined the BRICS Women Programme, which has enabled Foi Science to access international networks, markets, and mentorship, strengthening its business model and supporting expansion into both the SADC region and the G20 markets. The G20, or Group of Twenty, is an international forum of the world’s largest economies that discuss global economic issues. South Africa is set to host the G20 summit this November, marking a significant opportunity for local businesses like Foi Science to showcase African innovation on a global stage.
“Through the BRICS Women Programme, we are exploring G20 markets to export our products to more countries worldwide, promoting African innovation and driving economic growth,” Nompunga explained.
To date, Foi Science has empowered 10 new beauty brands led by women from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds, each with the potential to create additional jobs.
“Women are the heartbeat of innovation and change. At Foi Science, we celebrate your strength by providing tools, knowledge, and opportunities to create, heal, and thrive. Join us to reclaim your power, uplift communities, and build a sustainable future,” Nompunga concluded.
For more information about Foi Science visit www.foiscience.co.za
The TIA can be reached at www.tia.org.za
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