After more than twenty years working in the hairdressing industry, three entrepreneurs from Cape Flats have opened the IBU Hair salon at the V&A Waterfront. Their goal is to provide hair care services for any hair type, regardless of the client's financial status or background.
For Margot Hilario, Bianca Marra, and Yasmin Nadjar, launching IBU Hair, which is an abbreviation for Inspired By You, was the culmination of many years of experience, two years of planning, and the determination to overcome financial difficulties. This trio, who collaborated for over two decades, noted that their faith, families, and loyal clients helped bring their vision to business life.
Margot Hilario shared that they are primarily inspired by God, and subsequently motivated by the clients who have always supported them. However, the journey from idea to opening a salon in one of Cape Town's most renowned locations was not easy.
Two Years of Paperwork and Fundraising
The founders explained that securing funding and completing all necessary documentation for business registration were among the most serious obstacles. Coming from Cape Flats, they faced financial barriers when implementing their plans. This process took two years and involved paperwork, answering questions, and efforts to attract capital.
In moments of difficulty, their resolve was tested. Yasmin Nadjar admitted there were many times they wanted to give up. Nevertheless, despite all the challenges, they continued to work towards their goal, relying on their industry experience and the support of clients who remained by their side for many years.
A Salon Created for All Hair Types
The concept of IBU Hair was developed based on an opportunity the founders noticed in the beauty industry: creating a place where various hair types could be served under one roof. The business intends to offer a wide range of services—from braiding and ethnic hair care to European treatments, with the founders firmly intending not to refuse clients based on their hair type.
The salon uses professional products from Wella Professional, a German hair care brand. The company's goal is to build a client base that reflects the diversity of Cape Town. Although IBU Hair is positioned as an elite destination for beauty and hair, it is not exclusively intended for affluent visitors. The founders strive to make the salon a welcoming space where clients can receive hair care services and feel comfortable, regardless of their social standing.
Reasons for Choosing V&A Waterfront
The decision to open specifically at the V&A Waterfront was driven by the trio's long-standing connection to the area, where they had built relationships with clients over many years. Furthermore, this location offers the opportunity to reach a wider audience, including local residents and international guests. For the founders, this salon is a starting point for larger plans: they hope to expand the IBU Hair brand to other parts of South Africa and eventually enter international markets.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Bianca Marra advised future business owners to stay focused on their goals and not let financial problems, peer pressure, or negative thinking prevent them from achieving their ambitions. She emphasized: 'Stay focused, be persistent, overcome every obstacle, and unite with people who move you forward.'
For Margot Hilario, Bianca Marra, and Yasmin Nadjar, IBU Hair is more than just a new salon; it is the result of years of collaborative work, building client relationships, and overcoming difficulties in turning a business idea into reality.