Portia M’s founder, Portia Mngomezulu, is a name that has become synonymous with affordable, high-quality skincare in South Africa. Her journey from humble beginnings in Phalaborwa, Limpopo, to building a multi-million-rand empire is nothing short of inspiring.
This article dives deep into the story of Portia M’s founder, exploring her entrepreneurial spirit, the challenges she overcame, and the lessons we can all learn from her remarkable success.
From Humble Beginnings to Skincare Innovator
Portia M’s founder grew up in a family of strong, self-employed matriarchs who instilled in her the importance of independence and building something of her own. As the eldest of three children, Portia was a natural leader from a young age. She moved to Kriel in Mpumalanga at the age of eight, where she began earning money by making decorative cushions from her seamstress mother’s fabric scraps and braiding hair. These early experiences taught her the value of hard work and resourcefulness.
After completing her IT studies at Tshwane University of Technology and a project management certificate through Unisa, Portia secured an internship at Siemens South Africa. She spent nine years there, honing her skills and gaining valuable experience. However, her life took a transformative turn after the birth of her first child in 2010. Struggling with stretch marks, she discovered the healing properties of marula oil during a visit to her mother-in-law in Swaziland.
The Birth of Portia M
Portia M’s founder saw an opportunity to turn her personal skincare solution into a business. She invested R200 to buy marula oil directly from rural women in her hometown, bottled it herself, and began selling it to friends and church members. The demand grew rapidly, and Portia realized she was onto something big. She officially registered her business in 2011, naming it Portia M because she believed in the power of her name and the greatness it represented.
From the outset, Portia was determined to compete at a retail level against international giants. She leveraged her IT skills to market her products on Facebook, encouraging customers to share their before-and-after photos. This “social proof” became a cornerstone of her brand’s success, showcasing real results from real people.
Overcoming Challenges and Scaling the Business
Portia M’s founder faced numerous challenges as she scaled her business. She started production in her kitchen, using household utensils and a two-plate stove. Despite limited resources, she remained disciplined, reinvesting every rand back into the business. Her persistence paid off when she secured a scholarship to study at the Gordon Institute of Business Science, where she learned critical business skills.
A major breakthrough came when Makro agreed to stock her products in five stores. This was followed by listings in Pick n Pay, Shoprite, and Checkers, thanks to the support of influential figures like Suzanne Ackerman. By 2018, Portia M products were available in over 2,000 retail stores across South Africa, with a presence in 14 African countries.
How Luno Became Successful: The Building of a Crypto Empire
Building a Legacy
Today, Portia M’s founder oversees a thriving business with over 40 skincare products, standalone beauty stores, and a team of 150 employees. The brand’s success is a testament to Portia’s vision, resilience, and commitment to creating products tailored for African skin. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination and innovation, anything is possible.
Portia M’s founder, Portia Mngomezulu, has not only built a skincare empire but also inspired countless entrepreneurs across the continent. Her journey is a beacon of hope and a blueprint for turning dreams into reality.
Here’s a timeline of the Portia M Brand’s Journey:
Early Life & Education
- Childhood: Portia Mngomezulu was born in Phalaborwa, Limpopo, and raised by her maternal grandmother.
- Age 8 (Moved to Kriel, Mpumalanga): Lived with her parents, started making decorative cushions and plaiting hair for extra income.
- 2002: Completed IT studies at Tshwane University of Technology.
- Further Studies: Earned a Project Management certificate from Unisa.
- Internship & Career: Joined Siemens South Africa, working there for 9 years.
The Birth of Portia M Skincare
- 2010 (First Pregnancy): Developed stretch marks and discovered the benefits of marula oil from her Swazi mother-in-law.
- Invested R200: Bought marula oil from rural women in Phalaborwa, bottled it, and sold it for R100 to friends and church members.
- 2011: Registered her business as “Portia M” and focused on building a brand.
Scaling Up & Entering Retail
- 2012:
- Conducted extensive research on marula oil’s benefits.
- Worked with industry experts, including a Placecol founder, to refine formulations.
- SEDA funded product testing through SABS at MEDUNSA University.
- Continued selling from home while awaiting test results.
- 2013:
- Production expanded at home (using kitchen appliances and a garage mini-factory).
- Resigned from Siemens to focus on the business full-time.
- Invested her R356,000 severance payout into the company.
- 2014:
- Awarded a Massmart scholarship to study at the Gordon Institute of Business Science.
- Landed her first retail deal with Makro, starting in five stores.
- 2015-2017:
- Expanded into 20 Pick n Pay stores with help from Suzanne Ackerman.
- Grew Pick n Pay sales by nearly 2000%.
- 2016: Moved from a garage setup to a 1,400m² factory in The Innovation Hub after winning the DTI Emerging Supplier Award.
- 2017: Named a National Gazelle, winning a R1 million grant to invest in equipment and a delivery truck.
Rapid Growth & Expansion
- 2018:
- Achieved R50 million annual turnover.
- Expanded into Shoprite and Checkers after two years of negotiations.
- Reached over 2,000 retail stores.
- 2019-2021:
- Entered 14 African countries through retail partnerships.
- Employed 150+ staff and created 2,000 related jobs.
- Introduced standalone beauty stores (now 28 locations, including 19 in SA and 9 abroad).
Valuation & Brand Recognition
- 2022: Featured on Moja Love’s Mzansi Tycoons show.
- Revealed she declined a R60 million equity buyout offer.
- 2025 (Present Day):
- Business valuation likely exceeds the R150-250 million estimated in 2018.
- Continues expanding its footprint in retail and standalone stores.
Get the latest entrepreneurial success stories, expert tips, and exclusive updates delivered straight to your inbox — Sign up for Entrepreneur Hub SA’s newsletter today!
