Discussing the rise of Uncuthu Organics with Zimasa Modie.

The skincare industry is one of the industries that has been growing since it landed in our communities, with entrepreneurs who have managed to learn the ins and outs of it either via YouTube or through proper research. While global trends and international brands often dominate the shelves, there's something deeply refreshing about the rise of homegrown businesses that speak directly to the needs of African skin. At the heart of this movement is Zimasa Modie, founder of Uncuthu Organics, whose story is not only inspiring but also a celebration of entrepreneurship rooted in culture, family wisdom, and personal resilience.

When I asked Zimasa what inspired the birth of Uncuthu Organics, she took me back to her childhood memories and personal struggles. “I was born in Lenasia South, Johannesburg, but spent my early years moving between there and Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape. My journey into skincare started with my own battle with severe acne. I tried everything - high-end products, oral treatments - but nothing worked. It wasn’t until I revisited the traditional remedies my mother and grandmother swore by that I saw real change. That experience inspired me to create Uncuthu Organics in April 2021, to offer natural, effective solutions for people like me.”

But building a successful business, especially in an industry as competitive as skincare, is no easy feat. Zimasa candidly shared the steep learning curve she faced, particularly around the business and financial side of things. With her background in engineering, she admits that navigating compliance requirements and securing funding opportunities felt foreign and challenging. “I had to seek guidance from experts and mentors in the business space. I also learned that real growth begins when you understand your own core values and embrace the difficulties that come with staying true to them.”

This sense of authenticity shines through in the products themselves. I asked Zimasa what makes Uncuthu Organics stand out in a crowded market, and her passion was unmistakable. “We don’t just label ourselves ‘organic’ for marketing appeal. Every product is free from harmful chemicals and preservatives. But more importantly, each formula is designed with the African skin in mind - acknowledging the diverse levels of melanin and the unique challenges that come with it.” This deep understanding of local skin needs gives Uncuthu Organics an edge, combining ancient wisdom with modern formulation techniques.

Of course, ensuring consistent quality in every batch is crucial to maintaining customer trust. Zimasa credits her team’s ongoing research, development, and customer feedback for helping them evolve. “We constantly refine our products based on what our clients tell us they need. That’s the beauty of being a hands-on, locally rooted brand - we’re agile enough to listen and improve.”

Asked about her most rewarding moments since starting the business, Zimasa’s voice softened with emotion. “It’s the messages from clients who tell me they’ve regained their confidence after years of struggling with their skin. For some, it’s the first time they feel seen and beautiful. That’s the true reward.” Beyond skincare, Uncuthu Organics also empowers distributors across the country, giving them an income stream and a way to support their families.

As for the future? Zimasa’s ambitions for Uncuthu Organics are clear and bold. The brand is already available on Amazon and Takealot, with direct sales through their office and a growing distributor network. But she’s not stopping there. “By the end of this year, we want to see Uncuthu Organics stocked in major retail stores. And because we see an increasing demand for premium men’s skincare, we’re also developing a specialised male range to complement our unisex offerings.”

Zimasa Modie’s story is a reminder that entrepreneurship is more than building a brand - it’s about solving problems, embracing personal stories, and uplifting communities along the way. Uncuthu Organics is more than just skincare; it’s a testament to heritage, resilience, and the beauty of homegrown innovation.

For more, visit: Uncuthu Organics