Rooted in Nature to #doDifferent
In a world where skincare options are abundant but often laden with chemicals and artificial ingredients, some brands stand out as a beacon of natural goodness. That’s why this week, we are looking at a South African brand that has been on a remarkable journey, not just towards creating 100% natural skincare products, but also towards making a positive impact on local communities and the environment.
O'live Handmade Soaps started its journey in 2011 as a labour of love, ignited by a mother's determination to find a natural solution for her daughter's eczema. Zikhona Tefu embarked on a quest for alternatives that would alleviate her daughter's skin condition without resorting to chemical-laden products. After intensive research and experimentation, she formulated her first batch of all-natural soap, free from harmful additives. This initial creation not only succeeded in soothing her daughter's skin but also laid the foundation for O'live's future.
O'live's commitment to nature extends beyond its products, reflecting in its choice of ingredients and sourcing practices. The brand's products are crafted using organic plant oils and essential oils, showcasing its dedication to preserving the integrity of natural goodness. But O'live goes a step further by forging partnerships with local farmers, supporting local communities, and embracing sustainable practices.
One notable example of their ethical sourcing is the creamy luxury of palm oil. O'live only incorporated palm oil into their products once they found an eco-friendly source in West Africa. This source is cultivated and processed by empowered women, turning an ingredient that often raises environmental concerns into a force for good.
O'live's journey is also intertwined with its desire to empower local communities. The brand has been a catalyst for positive change in Khayelitsha, supporting a job creation initiative for women who crochet luxury products like slippers and washcloths. This endeavour not only provides employment opportunities but also fosters a sense of empowerment among women, enabling them to support their families and build brighter futures.
O'live's commitment to making a difference extends beyond South African borders. The brand sources raw shea butter directly from a co-op in Northern Ghana, supporting rural communities of shea nut producers. These producers, often women supporting their families, find sustainable jobs and economic stability through O'live's sourcing methods. By promoting sustainable partnerships, O'live's impact reaches far beyond skincare, touching lives across continents.
O'live's journey doesn't stop at creating its own products. The brand's success led to taking on commissions for private label soaps, partnering with other companies in the skincare and olive estate sectors. This expansion showcases O'live's craftsmanship, dedication to quality, and ability to contribute to various corners of the skincare industry.
As O'live Handmade Soaps continues to flourish, its legacy of goodness, ethical sourcing, community empowerment, and natural skincare stands as an inspiration. Zikhona Tefu's journey from a mother's quest for her daughter's well-being to a brand that impacts lives across the globe demonstrates the power of a single idea rooted in compassion and dedication. O'live's story encourages us to choose products that not only care for our skin but also care for the world around us.
Find out more about them here.
