Born in Otjiwarongo and raised in Windhoek, Jenita Amupolo (19) is not your typical teenager. 

While many her age are still figuring out what they want to do, she is already running her own growing nail business, Nails By Dulla.

She is doing it with pride, purpose and polish. Amupolo was raised in a family where strength and self-reliance were part of daily life. 

Her biggest inspiration is the entrepreneurial women in her family.

“I come from a family of strong, entrepreneurial women, especially my aunts. Each of them had a business. Watching them made me believe I could build something of my own one day,” she said.

Amupolo’s journey into the nail industry began in 2023, shortly after finishing high school. 

At the time, her mother paid for a short three-day nail course, not as a career starter, but simply to make extra pocket money.

“I never thought I’d fall in love with it the way I did. It started to make some cash on the side, doing nails for friends and family in their homes,” she said. 

But the more she practised, the more her confidence grew. 

With every brush stroke and perfectly shaped nail, she saw not just beauty but possibility. 

The word began to spread, and her client list expanded.

 Soon, the business was born.

Working from home, Amupolo began to take her business seriously. 

She invested in tools, improved her techniques and built a loyal customer base mostly through word-of-mouth and social media. 

Today, her small studio is buzzing with clients who trust her not only for her skill but also for her warm personality and professionalism.

“Starting a business at my age isn’t easy. There are days when it’s tough financially and emotionally, but knowing I’m building something for myself keeps me going,” Amupolo said.

By early 2025, she had moved out and converted her living space into a professional nail tech studio.

The risk paid off.

In just over half a year, the business has pulled in around N$80 000, a solid income that supports her daily needs and growth as a young professional and helps family and friends when they need a hand.

“I’m proud to say this is my main income. It pays my rent, food and everything else. It also gives me the freedom to help my loved ones,” she said. 

Amupolo has added lash extensions, wig installation and rentals, braiding, tooth gems and even fashion braces to her service list. 

This creative expansion has helped her avoid seasonal slumps, keeping her cash flow consistent.

Behind the scenes, she credits good money management for her stability. 

“I don’t do this alone. I have a financial manager who helps me stay on track, so I don’t run into big challenges,” she said. 

What started in a family living room has turned into a beacon of possibility, especially for young women looking to build something of their own.

 “This is just the beginning. I want to grow, expand and inspire others. If I can do it, so can they,” she remarked.