How Mamello Makha Built Exotic Beauty Salons into a Leading Brand

How Mamello Makha Built Exotic Beauty Salons into a Leading Brand. Mamello Makha, a former physiotherapist and sports enthusiast, channeled her passion for aesthetics into founding the Mamello Makha Exotic Beauty Salons. What began as a single salon has blossomed into a renowned brand, celebrated for its fusion of glamour, innovation, and cultural flair.
A Vision Rooted in Passion
Mamello’s journey is anything but conventional. Born in Bloemfontein, she initially pursued a career in sports, playing for Bloemfontein Celtic FC’s ladies team before transitioning into roles as a kit manager and physiotherapist. Her deep involvement in sports earned her the title of Sports Fan of the Year in both 2018 and 2019.
However, her passion for beauty and fashion remained unwavering. In 2015, she took a leap of faith, establishing the first Mamello Makha Exotic Beauty Salon in Johannesburg. Her vision was clear: to create a space where clients could experience top-tier beauty treatments infused with a touch of exotic elegance.

Strategic Expansion and Brand Diversification
Recognizing the importance of accessibility and brand presence, Mamello strategically expanded her salons across Gauteng. Notable locations include:
- Melrose Arch, Johannesburg
- Gandhi Square, Marshalltown
- Pretoria CBD
Each salon offers a range of services, from facials and skincare to hair removal and makeup, catering to a diverse clientele.
In 2017, Mamello expanded her brand by launching the Mamello Makha Boutique, offering dresses for rental and sale, further solidifying her footprint in the fashion industry.
Innovative Collaborations and Media Presence
Mamello’s flair for innovation is evident in her collaborations. She partnered with renowned brands like ORS Hair Care, enhancing her salons’ offerings and credibility. Her expertise also caught the attention of television producers, leading to her participation in SABC 3’s reality show “A Cut Above The Rest,” which showcased South Africa’s top hairstylists.
These ventures not only elevated her brand’s profile but also positioned her as a thought leader in the beauty industry.

Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Building a beauty empire wasn’t without its hurdles. From navigating the competitive salon industry to managing multiple locations, Mamello faced numerous challenges. However, her resilience, combined with a clear vision and strategic planning, enabled her to overcome obstacles and continue growing her brand.
Actionable Insights for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
- Leverage Your Background: Mamello’s transition from sports to beauty illustrates the value of transferable skills and passions.
- Strategic Location Selection: Choosing salon locations in bustling areas like Melrose Arch and Pretoria CBD increased visibility and accessibility.
- Brand Diversification: Expanding into fashion with her boutique allowed Mamello to tap into new markets and revenue streams.
- Collaborate with Established Brands: Partnerships with companies like ORS Hair Care enhanced her brand’s credibility and offerings.
- Media Engagement: Participating in television shows and maintaining an active social media presence boosted brand awareness and customer engagement.

Mamello Makha’s journey from a sports enthusiast to a beauty mogul is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and strategic thinking. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating that with determination and innovation, one can transform a vision into a thriving enterprise.