Rose-Mary Haufiku
Some people are more creative and insightful than others. They can figure out what they need to do on their own, while others need something or someone to spark their creativity.
Spurred on by her cousin to start a side-hustle, Beatha Ngalangi began making reversible satin hair bonnets and pillow cases in 2020, right after the first Covid-19 lockdown.
“At that time, people became big on hair and skincare, and I realised satin bonnets and pillowcases were trending and also in demand. Luckily for me, I have a cousin who kept pushing me to start a side-hustle, even before I came to that point in my life where I had no choice but to start one. She had a sewing machine she wasn’t using. I saw the opportunity, and took it and started making pillowcases and bonnets,” she told Youth Corner.
She now also makes robes, swimming costumes and swimming costume cover-ups. Ngalangi said she never imagined her life as a hair bonnet maker or even a small business owner, but she got to a point in her life where she needed to do something to make money since her cost of living surpassed her income.
The 22-year-old UNAM student said she is fanatical about anything related to well-being, self-development and self-care, adding that she loves reading and is also a creative person.
“I’m passionate about creating things, learning new skills, journaling, makeup and sewing. I like creating, that’s why I’m always looking for something to try out; it can be a makeup look, a recipe or some DIY. I also love watching things come to life,” she raved. Ngalangi, who is doing her research project in clinical psychology, said her passion for mental health is what intrigued her to study psychology.
She desires to work as a clinical psychologist, while building her business as a hair bonnet maker.
Ngalangi is a great inspiration for many youngsters as she shows that immense achievements are always just a step away. Thus, making money should always be a priority, and to succeed in life, one must be innovative and willing to take chances.