Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to champion student success both inside and outside the lecture hall, as showcased by the remarkable achievements of Mathematics Master’s student Mariah Sambo. Her on-campus salon, Lona’s Beauty, stands as a shining example of SMU’s supportive and innovative environment, which extends beyond academics to nurture entrepreneurial ambitions.
Mariah’s motivation for launching Lona’s Beauty was fuelled by her desire to offer convenient, high-quality hair services at student-friendly prices. “As a student, I noticed how challenging it was for my peers to access affordable hair services nearby,” she explains. “I wanted to create a solution.”
By offering everything from haircuts and colouring to braiding and specialised styling, Lona’s Beauty ensures that SMU students have a wide range of services tailored to their needs and budgets. The salon’s student discount packages, coupled with revenue from service fees and product sales, make it a sustainable venture for Sambo and her growing team of talented stylists.
Beyond the salon’s success, Sambo’s journey highlights the pivotal role SMU plays in nurturing bright ideas. She credits the university’s encouragement of innovation, social responsibility, and excellence for driving her forward. Participating in the Student Entrepreneurship Week competition broadened her perspective and connected her with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs, further demonstrating SMU’s commitment to fostering collaboration.
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook have proved crucial in promoting Lona’s Beauty. “These channels allow us to showcase our work and resonate with campus trends,” Sambo says, reflecting on how SMU’s inclusive and tech-savvy culture helps student enterprises flourish.
Looking ahead, she aims to take Lona’s Beauty to new heights—potentially branching out to other campuses—while continuing her postgraduate studies. Balancing academics and business has taught her the importance of time management, setting clear goals, and prioritising tasks, lessons she is eager to share with other aspiring student entrepreneurs.
“Stay connected to your target audience and remain adaptable,” she advises. Being part of SMU has shown me how a supportive environment can accelerate learning and growth.
Sambo’s journey is a testament to SMU’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. Her story reinforces the university’s commitment to creating an enabling atmosphere—one where students are empowered to innovate, excel in their studies, and turn bold ideas into thriving ventures.
By Dimakatso Modise
