Omega Nankhuni
We have seen a number of designers, actors, musicians and other talented women flood the Malawi scene. But we have not yet seen someone come up with a cosmetic line—something that almost every woman uses. Omega Nankhuni has defied the odds, not only in Malawi but in the United States of America (USA) as well, by coming up with a make-up line called OC Cosmetics. She talks to DUMASE ZGAMBO-MAPEMBA.
Who is Omega?
I was born in Blantyre in 1974. Both my parents came from Chiradzulu. I am the last born [in a family] of nine children. That’s why I was named Omega from the Bible, meaning the end. I am in a relationship, but I don’t have children yet.
What is your academic and professional background?
I attended Chitawira Primary School and Blantyre Girls Primary school before my secondary education at Malamulo Secondary School. Then I went to Malawi Institute of Tourism (MIT) and studied hotel management. I then worked as a chef at Lilongwe Hotel before joining Mulika Executive Club in Blantyre. My dream was to become a head chef. I am so blessed. I grew up with my aunt and uncle – the Malewezis. They took me in when I was six years old and I became their first born. I grew up in a Christian family and had a good life. As such, I didn’t face problems and I thank God for that.
How did you find yourself in the United States of America?
In 1998, my brother and his wife invited me to the United States. While here everyone was talking about going to nursing school because nurses make good money. So, my interest of going back to hotel management school was gone. I enrolled into nursing school while selling Mary Kay skin products. I opened a cosmetic shop and my passion for the makeup started there.
Tell us about OC Cosmetics?
I decided to change my career from nursing to make-up artistry. I went to Cosmix School of Make-up in Florida. I visualised myself owning a make-up line. I eventually did and decided to call it Omega Creation but then there are so many Omega products out there. So, I cut it short and called it OC Cosmetics. I wanted to use my name because I believe that my make-up line is the end – just like the meaning of my name.
Why did you choose make-up out of all beauty products?
I generally have passion for make-up and most women cannot do without make-up. Since I started my make-up line, I enjoy doing make-over and meeting different people while helping them to look good and confident.
What does your make-up line comprise?
It has foundation for all skin types, powders, lipsticks, lip gloss, eye shadows, mascara, blush and concealer. My clients are white or Caucasian and black.
What does it take for someone to establish a cosmetic line?
Anybody can start a make-up line as long as you have passion for make-up and cosmetics. However, you need to know the secret to coming up with a good make-up line that can suit every skin colour and texture.
What challenges have you gone through while establishing the line?
When I created my line I wasn’t sure people will support me, especially here in USA considering the stiff competition we have in the make-up industry. I have worked with Mac Cosmetics and Estee Lauder. But I gave up all those opportunities and risked it to establish my business.
How well known is your cosmetic line?
My line is well known here. But I am still marketing. But most people—especially my close friends, family and those that have tried them love my products. They support me a lot. I remember to have been invited to a celebrity essence festival. It was great and inspiring to meet and apply make-up to some celebrities.
What are your cosmetics made from?
My cosmetics are made from minerals and are Paraben free. [Parabens are the most widely used preservatives in cosmetics and products such as soap, moisturisers, shaving cream and underarm deodorant. They are made out of alcohol and acid].
How do Malawians access your products since you only advertise online?
I have some people who are selling my cosmetics for me in Malawi. But since I will be there for the Malawi Fashion Week (30th May to 3rd June) I will be able to interact with Malawian ladies and I may stay for some few weeks after the fashion event. I have permanent shop here where people can easily buy the cosmetics.
How will your business benefit Malawi?
I will be in Malawi soon to launch my make-up line. My dream is to have a skin foundation called OC Malaria Foundation. Two years ago, after I visited Malawi, I suffered from malaria and I was hospitalised for a month. I almost died because the doctors were failing to treat the Malaria. But by the grace of God I survived. Some strangers paid my hospital bill that amounted to about $600 000. Since then I have decided to give back to those that need help both in Malawi and the USA.
What are your other plans for OC Cosmetics?
I want to create jobs or give women an opportunity to start selling OC Cosmetics so that they can make a huge economic difference in their lives–not only in Malawi, but all over the world.
What make-up mistakes do most women make?
The most common mistake most women make is using wrong shades of foundation or powders. It bothers me a lot. My make-up line has all shades and I make sure that I help my client use the right shade.
Which cosmetic line or designer inspires you?
The Mary Kay cosmetics is the only line that inspires me because I am where I am today because of Mary Kay’s dreams and vision.
Which woman or women inspire you?
Mary Kay and Oprah. The latter inspires me because of her giving spirit of giving. When I came to the USA, I used to say one day if God will bless me with money I want to become like Oprah.
What is beauty to you?
Beauty to me is not about looks, clothes or make-up. Rather true beauty comes from being yourself and showing confidence that you can make it in whatever you are doing.
What is your favourite perfume?
I still have not found my favourite perfume, but I like most designer perfumes.
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies are cooking and playing with make-up. I also like finding out what’s new in the world of fashion.
