Connie Ferguson and four other celebrity entrepreneurs motivate us to start our own businesses.
Being a celebrity nowadays isn’t about having an extraordinary talent that inspires and entertains the masses. We frequently see our favorite celebrities pursuing business opportunities that speak to their passions as well as what will be appealing to their target audience.
Celebrities have taken on interesting business ventures, propelling them to successful entrepreneur status. In an uncertain economy where multiple sources of income are encouraged, these celebrity entrepreneurs inspire us to tap into our own creative genius and discover what we can offer.
Here is a list of celebrity entrepreneurs and businesswomen to look up to for ideas:
1. Shauwn Mkhize
Shauwn Mkhize, philanthropist, reality star, and socialite known as MaMkhize, has been in the spotlight for many years. MaMkhize, known as the daughter of struggle icons and anti-apartheid activists Florence and Sipho Mkhize, has set her sights on a number of successful businesses that cater to a wide range of industries.
MaMkhize founded Zikhulise Group to offer professional construction services to its clients, and she was awarded tenders to build RDP houses for the poor. MaMkhize has also dabbled in sports leagues, having purchased the football clubs Royal AM FC and Royal AM Ladies.
2. DJ Zinhle
Zinhle, South Africa’s resident house DJ, has not only made a name for herself in the entertainment industry with chart-topping hits like Umlilo and My Name Is, but she has also established herself as an unstoppable force as a powerhouse entrepreneur with many businesses across various industries.
Zinhle launched her fashion accessory brand Era by DJ Zinhle in 2012, with close friend and musician Moozlie taking over the creative direction of the brand in 2022. She has since expanded her business ventures to include her high-end retail brand Jiyane Atelier, as well as acquiring equity in the sparkling wine brand Boulevard, launching her own signature edition nectar rose MCC at the end of 2020.
3. Connie Ferguson
Connie Ferguson is best known for her iconic role as Karabo Moroka on Generations, but since leaving the show, she has risen through the ranks of the entertainment industry to the position of media mogul.
Ferguson Films, which she co-founded with her late husband Shona in 2010, is one of her most well-known accomplishments. After the success of their first production, Rockville, the television company went on to produce a number of critically acclaimed local series, including The Throne and The Queen. She is also the creator of a number of beauty products, including her True Self Fragrance and the Connie natural skincare body care line.
4. Shashi Naidoo
The famous actress, presenter, model, and jetsetter has broadened her horizons throughout her career.
Shashi has successfully transitioned to the business sphere with her model agency Alushi Models – now conjoined with Bridge Management – and beauty clinic Alushi Aesthetics after making a name for herself after appearing in brief roles in local iconic soapies like Backstage and Generations.
Alushi Management, founded in 2008, has become one of the country’s fastest growing model agencies, and Alushi Aesthetics provides a wide range of nonsurgical skincare, body restoration, and hair removal treatments for a flawless finish.
5. Boity Thulo
As far as bankable celebrities and public figures go, Boity has cemented herself as a multifaceted entrepreneur like no other.
The media personality and musician has made a name for herself in a variety of ways, including creating her own divine Eau De Parfum called Pink Sapphire, expanding into the beauty sphere with her hair care brand Boity Hair Care and wig range Be You by Boity, and venturing into the high-end beverage space with her alcoholic and non-alcoholic frizzante BT Signature, a delicious sparkling fruit beverage created in collaboration with winemaker Matthew Krone.
Boity’s entrepreneurial endeavors have comfortably placed her in a position to inspire aspiring businesswomen and entrepreneurs.
