In Nelson Mandela Bay, the name Noncedo Monica Nkalitshana stands out in the vast landscape of beauty and entrepreneurship, telling a story of unwavering faith, passion, and determination. Noncedo is the proprietor and creator of Sister2Sister Corporation, which operates under the name Sister2Sister Beauty. Her rise from the streets of Butterworth to the head of a thriving beauty enterprise is truly remarkable.
Noncedo's story begins in the Eastern Cape, ku Tsolo, where economic hardships led her mother to make a selfless decision for her daughter's future. Raised by her aunt in Butterworth, Noncedo's early affinity for hair manifested at the tender age of five. Unbeknownst to her, those early attempts at braiding dolls would lay the foundation for her future as a trailblazing entrepreneur.
"I remember everyone in my street in Butterworth used to do their hair by me," Noncedo reminisces, reflecting on the humble beginnings of her passion. Little did she know that these modest beginnings would evolve into Sister2Sister Beauty, a brand synonymous with quality and care.
Noncedo's journey is intertwined with her deep faith, guided by the Holy Spirit. Her dream of owning a salon materialized through unwavering belief, even envisioning a salon in an area that once served as a dumping ground near her home. Her determination and faith in her abilities to grow the business transformed that very space into a sanctuary of beauty and self-care.
The evolution of Sister2Sister Beauty took a significant turn in 2018 when Noncedo ventured into crafting braided wigs. This venture not only gained national but international acclaim. However, her vision extended beyond wigs; it encompassed a commitment to natural, organic hair care – a commitment that birthed Isintu Naturals.
Noncedo's dedication to revolutionizing hair care stems from personal experiences. Having suffered from hair loss due to harsh relaxers, she aimed to create a product line that not only nurtures but empowers hair growth. Isintu Naturals emerged as a beacon of knowledge, educating clients on proper hair care and maintenance. "As I have mentioned, I am always guided by the Holy Spirit. Sometimes I can't even sleep at night thinking of ways to grow my business," Noncedo reveals. Her tireless efforts include using social media as a powerful tool to connect with clients and spread awareness about her brands, ensuring that Sister2Sister Beauty reaches every corner of the Eastern Cape.
Leading by example, Noncedo remains deeply involved in her craft, personally executing each hairstyle to instill her passion in her team of 16 employees. Regular meetings and one-on-one sessions underline her commitment to individual and collective growth.
Reflecting on her highlights, Noncedo expresses gratitude for the organic growth of Sister2Sister Beauty. From renting a container to being featured on TV and radio stations, her journey is a testament to the support of her loyal clients. The birth of two brands, Isintu Naturals and Coco_Braiding, solidifies her commitment to holistic hair care.
Noncedo's vision extends beyond Gqeberha; she aspires to make Sister2Sister Beauty a household name across the Eastern Cape and beyond. With a focus on educating people about the importance of protective hairstyling and natural hair maintenance, Noncedo envisions Isintu Naturals and Coco_Braiding as staple brands in every African home.
In Noncedo's world, the journey is ongoing, fueled by the desire to keep clients happy and spread the gospel of Sister2Sister Beauty far and wide. As she continues to lead with purpose and passion, the story of Noncedo Monica Nkalitshana is a testament to the transformative power of faith, determination, and a genuine love for the craft.
Images by: Akhanani Maneli