Online Reporter
Trish Mukwazo, [email protected]
HAIRDRESSING isn’t just a profession for Elizabeth Chiwoko; it’s a family legacy passed down through generations. However, Elizabeth has taken this gift to new heights, establishing a salon that offers a wide range of hair products and cutting-edge hairstyles.
Thirty-year-old Elizabeth Chiwoko, or Lizzy as she’s known, is the founder and CEO of a thriving hair salon in the centre of Bulawayo. Her business has become a go-to destination for all hair needs, offering an extensive range of products and the latest styles.
Lizzy is not only a hairdresser and stylist but also manufactures and sells her own hair products.
Born and raised in Bulawayo, the City of Kings, Lizzy resides in the Sizinda suburb. She attended Intunta Primary School and
Ihlathi High School before graduating with a degree in Human Resources Management. She was inspired by her mother, who worked tirelessly to provide for the family after their father’s passing.
“Our father passed away when I was very young — I was just six. I used to see her doing very hard jobs. She didn’t care who offered the work; all she wanted was to earn money to feed us and send us to school. So I told myself, ‘I want to be my own boss one day and be a successful businesswoman.’”
A true innovator, Lizzy constantly introduces new products and services to her business. She has collaborated with reputable organisations like Plan International and Pusheka Girl, participating in projects aimed at empowering girls. These projects, funded by Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, have taken place in Tshabalala and Cowdray Park suburbs.
Lizzy credits her supportive family for providing the initial funding to establish her business. She sources her hair products from various African countries, ensuring her clients receive only the best. While her business provides a good income, Lizzy emphasises the importance of discipline in maintaining a successful entrepreneurial journey.
Coming from a family of hairdressers, Lizzy explains that her full-time focus sets her apart.
“We’re a family of hairstylists, but we also have our own degrees alongside our hairdressing skills,” she said.
To further develop her skills and knowledge, Lizzy attended wig-making and business masterclasses at Shara Hair Beauty
Academy in South Africa and Nigeria. She is currently studying cosmetology at Bulawayo Polytechnic.
Despite facing challenges such as difficult clients and slow periods, Lizzy remains committed to her vision, attributing her success to her ability to work under pressure.
“You know clients — some are rude, some are always complaining, and you know the client is always right. You need to smile and be understanding.”
Regarding work-life balance, Lizzy explains that she divides her day into three parts: self-care, business (money and power), and family time.
“It’s the only way to bring balance from the outset and avoid regrets,” she believes.
Lizzy’s dream is to open a beauty therapy academy and a company to manufacture her own hairpieces and products.
“The industry can sometimes be competitive and discouraging. I find it really important to cheer each other on in our successes and have open communication.”
“Faith without works is dead,” Lizzy concludes. “God is good all the time. Always put God first, and your vision will be successful. Jeremiah 29:11.”
