Mpho Masoeu is breaking barriers with her nail business, rising beyond the limitations that come with narrowing one’s eyes to stifling spaces.

After obtaining her Financial Accounting qualification from the University of Johannesburg in 2016, the 34-year-old from eMalahleni said she gained corporate experience soon after, working in the local Civil and Mechanical Engineering sector for four years.

Driven by passion and a deep sense of responsibility for her children, Mpho decided to pursue a professional nail qualification, which led to her transition into entrepreneurship and the establishment of her company.

“I was inspired and called to create my nail business in 2019 after realizing that I’m going to be a mom of two under twos,” the nail technician said.

She added that she didn’t want to force her aspirations on her children, and the only way she could prevent that was by figuring out her true passion.

“I sat and questioned myself about the one thing I would still do even if I wasn’t getting paid, and I immediately knew what I was going to pursue,” she said.

By venturing into entrepreneurship, Mpho said she wasn’t dropping her qualification, but was simply outgrowing its limitations.

“I realized that what I wanted couldn’t be achieved by staying in the path that was ‘expected.’ I wanted a life aligned with who I truly am. I didn’t just want a job, I wanted a legacy,” she said.

Throughout life’s ups and downs, the mother of two said her children, her vision, and the woman she’s becoming are what keep her focused.

“I’m motivated by the life I refuse to settle for and the women I know my story will impact,” the entrepreneur said.
With her valuable life lesson that a person can rebuild from anything, only when you truly know yourself and stop shrinking to fit into places you’ve outgrown, Mpho advises graduates to improve their self-concept and create their own stories on their own terms.

“Your degree is not your identity, it’s a tool, not a cage. Don’t wait to be chosen, choose yourself,” she said, concluding, “You are enough, and you are worthy as you are. Remember that, Zazi.”

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