Tradition meets innovation for entrepreneur
Her story is a testament to how accelerating action in business, innovation, and sustainability can create opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
To commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8, under the theme ‘Accelerate Action,’ The SPAR Group celebrates the resilience and innovation of women entrepreneurs who are driving meaningful change.
One such trailblazer is Nombuso Duma, whose Zurri brand (rooted in four generations of inherited herbal expertise) is proving that traditional skills can thrive in the digital age while empowering women in business.
Blending village healing traditions with modern retail strategies, Duma has transformed her home-grown remedies into a globally recognised brand.
From humble beginnings in Umzinto, she has embraced technology and international quality standards to propel her business onto a larger stage.
Her story is a testament to how accelerating action in business, innovation, and sustainability can create opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
Recognising that credibility with customers and retailers was crucial, Duma undertook the rigorous and costly process of obtaining International Standards Organisation (ISO) certification. This move ensured strict quality control while staying true to Zurri’s organic, vegan and women-first philosophy.
Her journey highlights the power of women-led businesses in transforming local expertise into global success.
Breaking into retail was no easy feat, but Duma’s persistence paid off. With guidance from experienced store owners, she refined her approach, and by June 2021, Zurri secured shelf space at Power SPAR.
The brand has since expanded to nine SPAR stores, with ongoing negotiations to enter a retail chain along the KZN coast. This growth is a powerful example of how women entrepreneurs can accelerate action, breaking barriers in male-dominated industries.
“The Zurri story is inspirational, demonstrating that traditional knowledge can be the foundation for exciting opportunities,” said Mpudi Maubane, National PR, Communications and Sponsorships Manager at The SPAR Group.
“By accelerating action in women’s entrepreneurship, we create a more inclusive, thriving economy.”
SPAR remains committed to supporting women-led businesses, championing innovation and accelerating action for gender equality in the retail and entrepreneurship space.
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