By Sbongile Sokela
Two young entrepreneurs, Julia and Juanetle Short, both 13 years old, are proving that age is no barrier to success. The sisters, who started making soaps last year, have turned their hobby into a small but thriving business.
Their soaps are crafted from scratch, using 100% glycerin, essential oil perfumes, natural colourants, and nourishing ingredients. They also create luxurious hand creams in delightful scents such as avocado, apple, mango, peach, and cherry. Prices for their soaps range from R5 to R25.
Their mother, Tracy, could not be prouder. “I was really proud of them; they are determined to go somewhere. They started last year with the soaps,” she said. She also makes sure to encourage them to focus on their studies, reminding them that education is just as important as their growing business.
Juanetle recalls the moment that sparked her entrepreneurial spirit. “It got to me, and I asked my mom if we could make cupcakes I could sell. She asked me why, and I told her I wanted to get my sister and me something because she doesn’t buy us everything we want. That inspired us a lot that’s why I started doing it.”
The people at a recent High Tea event loved their work, admiring the creativity and effort behind each product. The sisters even gifted one of their soaps to someone at the event, a gesture that was warmly received and showed their generosity and passion for sharing their creations.
Through dedication, creativity, and a desire to provide for themselves, Julia and Juanetle have shown that determination and innovation can pave the way for young people to achieve their dreams.
You can find their products in Springs or contact their mother, Tracy, to support them on 065 929 3328.
