Liesl Katzen, 26, of Parow is charting her own entrepreneurial path while at the same time embracing her “roots”.
Liesl, who works part-time while doing a BCom at UWC, is the brains behind Curl Chemistry, a range of haircare products for naturally curly hair.
Liesl launched the line in July last year.
“I got tired of spending hours in the hair salon, relaxing, then blow-drying and flat-ironing my hair. I made a decision not to chemically treat my hair, and that is when I started experimenting with different oils, such such as shea butter, coconut oil and olive oil to nourish my natural hairdo.”
Liesl says her decision grew out of seeing the pressure women face in society.
“As women we have to juggle work and family and are left with very little for ourselves. I feel like the way we wear our hair is the one thing that we have complete autonomy over.”
She believes all hair is like an ID number: unique.
“Everyone has a different curl pattern and shape. My products allow women the opportunity to learn how to manage their curl type.”
Liesl, who completed matric at The Settlers High School in Bellville in 2009, says her mother has been her biggest supporter.
“At the moment, my life is very hectic as I am juggling so many things. My mom has been my rock.”
To lighten, the load, Liesl has employed three women from Ravensmead to help her package her products.
“There is a lot of unemployment and violence in the area, and I want to give back to the community,” she says.
Liesl encourages mothers to let their daughters embrace their natural locks.
“In the future, I plan to host workshops to teach women how to take care of their natural hair and I want to conceptualise a range for thicker hair.”
During her spare time, Liesl enjoys spending time with her family and friends as well as singing.
“I have a lot of friends in the music industry and often go to their gigs to support them.”
She praised her father, Patrick, for his unwavering support, saying he has embraced her business as it promotes her Khoisan heritage.
Her future plans include distributing her products throughout Africa.
* To learn more email curlchemistry@gmail.com or visit www.curlchemistry.co.za