By: ‘Moelo Motsiri
BEREA
In the busy street of Teya-Teyaneng, a young woman is making waves in the hair industry.
Meet 24-year-old ’Mapheko Ramotete, a talented hairstylist who turned her childhood passion into a growing business. Her story is not just about braiding hair but is about courage, determination, and the power of doing what one loves.
’Mapheko is currently a student at Limkokwing University, studying for a Diploma in Journalism and Media. But her journey in hairdressing began long before she stepped into a lecture hall.
Back in 2018, while waiting to start university, she decided that she would not sit idle. Instead, she would chase her dreams and open her own salon.
That is how “Mapheko’s Hair and Nail Parlour” was born.
Since then, her salon has become a go-to place for stylish braids, knotless styles, essence, hair washing, and much more. Her hands work like magic, transforming ordinary hair into elegant masterpieces.
“I have loved doing hair since I was a little girl,” she said, smiling. “I used to braid grass when I was a child. That’s where it all began. I would also watch one of my relatives do people’s hair. She inspired me to turn this passion into something real.”
What started as a childhood hobby has grown into a successful business that’s gaining popularity every day. What sets ’Mapheko apart is not just her skill, but also her dedication. She treats every customer like a queen, making sure they walk out of her salon looking and feeling their best.
Like many entrepreneurs, her path has not been easy. But no challenge has shaken her belief that this is her calling. “I believe hairdressing is in my blood,” she said. “Even when things get tough, I see those challenges as part of my journey. They are stepping stones, not roadblocks.”
’Mapheko is also smart about marketing. She uses Facebook to advertise her services and attracts new customers that way. Her work speaks for itself, and happy clients often recommend her to others.
“Business is growing, and most of my new customers come because they’ve heard good things from others,” she explained. “Their support gives me strength and keeps me going. I’m really thankful.”
Her customers have nothing but praise for her. Thabelo Khabane, one of her loyal clients, said, “She’s friendly and very good at what she does. I once got the essence style from her, and I was impressed. She gave me exactly what I wanted.”
Another happy client, Ncumesa Nqojane, agreed.
“I can confidently refer people to her because I know they will leave her salon happy and looking great. She takes her time and makes sure the results are perfect.”
However, it is not always smooth sailing as winter is always a tough season for the business. “During winter, business slows down,” ‘Mapheko explained. “People often say they don’t need to style their hair because they’re wearing hats, so I get fewer clients.”
She also recalled one difficult experience with a customer who removed her braids the same day, saying they were painful, and demanded a new hairstyle. “I was upset and didn’t know how to respond,” she admitted. “But I still redid her hair with a smile. I want all my clients to leave happy, no matter what.”
Despite the ups and downs, ’Mapheko is dreaming big. She does not just want a salon but wants to build an empire. Her vision is to own a large, fully equipped hair studio with its own apartment space and training sessions for hair care.
“I want my salon to stand out,” she said. “Many places don’t offer sessions on how to take care of your hair. I want to include that in my business. I want to teach people to love and care for their hair.”
To young people, her message is clear and powerful: “Start something of your own. We struggle to find jobs, so let’s create them. Use your passion to build something for yourself. It is better to work for yourself than to go to bed hungry. Start now, before it is too late.”
With her skill, heart, and hunger for success, ’Mapheko is not just styling hair — she is shaping a future. Her story is a reminder that passion can truly be a powerful tool for survival and for success.