We chat with Zintle Madikane about how creating her own perfume beats rebranding existing products.
What inspired you to start your own perfume business?
I grew up in a business environment and I think business is in my blood. Business is my first love and I wanted to do something I’m passionate about.
Can you tell us about the process of developing and manufacturing your perfumes?
A lot of love and care goes into making each bottle of perfume. Every step in the process is undertaken by me.
What sets your perfumes apart from others on the market?
Others buy ready-made perfumes and brand them, whereas I’m involved in every step of making the perfumes.
What was your biggest challenge when starting your perfume business, and how did you overcome it?
Like any small business, the biggest challenge has been sourcing capital. Since its inception, I’ve been funding the business myself.
Where do you find inspiration for the different scents you create?
I have searched the market and found that the most popular scents for fragrances are floral and citrus and those are the scents that I incorporate the most into my perfumes, I make sure that I produce scents that I would like to use and be proud to wear.
What has been your most popular fragrance so far, and what do you think makes it so special?
My most popular fragrance is Attrack Code. It’s so special because you don’t just smell nice, you smell unforgettable.
How do you source the ingredients for your perfumes, and what are the key qualities you look for?
I use types of materials that come from natural ingredients oils, that won’t cause allergies. I look for the best quality in every product, all my ingredients are locally sourced.
Do you have a personal favourite scent from your collection? If so, why is it special to you?
Yes, I do. It’s called Touch Secret. It really boosts my confidence, and it reduces stress and anxiety.
How has running your own perfume business shaped your personal growth and entrepreneurship journey?
Confidence comes from within but a beautiful fragrance can certainly enhance it. It has taught me resilience and the importance of never giving up because it involves introducing people to something new.
Can you share some insights into the technical side of perfume-making? What does it take to craft the perfect scent?
Crafting a perfume scent takes a lot of time then when it is finally created, you mix it with other chemicals or tiny amount of water. It just needs you to be patient and know what you are doing.
What advice would you give to women looking to start their own businesses?
The best advice I would give anyone starting a business is to find a passion and follow through with it diligently.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your own perfume business?
The most rewarding part has been producing a perfume named after my daughter (Isenathi), to leave a lasting legacy for her even when I am no longer around.
Are there any new fragrances or exciting projects you’re currently working on?
Watch this space.
Where do you see your perfume business in the next few years, and what are your long-term goals?
I see myself as a leading perfume brand in the Eastern Cape.
Is there anything else that you would like our readers to know about what you do?
I also offer the following services: creating company logos, posters, audio obituaries, programmes, and I am also a programme director.
Where can our readers find you? (social media, and so on)
Facebook: Zizikazi Madikane;TikTok: Zizikazi; WhatsApp or calls: 071-050-8976.
