Empowering Women and Redefining Beauty in Sierra Leone
In Sierra Leone, amid its dynamic streets and lively communities, emerges a story of empowerment and natural splendour. Meet Haja Dalanda Masselly, a devoted mother of three, and the visionary force behind Shea & More, a locally-made cosmetics brand reshaping the skincare landscape in Sierra Leone.
(Coffee and Vanilla Body Scrub and Papaya and Aloe Very Body Scrub)
Shea & More isn’t just another cosmetics company; it’s a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of women like Dalanda, who dared to dream beyond the confines of conventionality. With a mission to celebrate the natural essence of beauty while uplifting communities, Shea & More formulates organic skin care products that epitomizes purity and quality.
Dalanda’s journey with Shea & More began with a simple yet profound idea: to create skincare solutions for all types of skin. Her dedication to crafting natural and organic products aligns seamlessly with her commitment to ethical practices and sustainability. Every formulation is a labour of love, meticulously crafted under the stringent regulations of natural cosmetics, ensuring that customers receive nothing but the best.
However, the path to success had its challenges. Like many aspiring entrepreneurs, Dalanda faced the daunting task of balancing business endeavours with the responsibilities of motherhood. In a world where work-life balance often feels like an elusive dream, she persevered, driven by a fierce determination to carve her own path.
Dalanda’s journey took a transformative turn when she was introduced to the Sierra Leone Entrepreneurship Development Project (SLEDP). Encouraged by friends, she seized the opportunity and applied, placing her faith in the possibility of realizing her dreams. Little did she know that this decision would mark a turning point in her entrepreneurial voyage.
Through SLEDP, Dalanda received invaluable training and technical assistance that equipped her with the tools needed to thrive in the competitive business landscape. What began as a business venture blossomed into a movement, empowering Dalanda to transcend the limitations of her circumstances and emerge as a beacon of inspiration for women across Sierra Leone.
(Shelf with Shea & More Products)
Grateful for the support she received, Dalanda acknowledges the profound impact of SLEDP on her business and personal growth. With newfound confidence and a strengthened professional network, Shea & More is flourishing and expanding its distribution channels to include hotels, supermarkets, cosmetics stalls, and even the prestigious Mercy Ship. Shea & More leads the way in promoting business circularity in Sierra Leone by minimizing single-use plastic in product packaging. As the pioneer supplier of refillable cosmetics for hotels in the country, Shea & More sets a new standard. Through the SLEDP World Bank-administered Problue project, Dalanda secured certification from the BAV INSTITUTE in Germany, an accredited examination laboratory for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical companies. This certification enables Shea & More to export products to international markets, expanding its reach globally.
But Dalanda’s vision extends far beyond commercial success. Through Shea & More, she seeks to empower rural women by sourcing raw materials from local communities, fostering economic independence and sustainability. By championing locally sourced ingredients, Shea & More not only elevates the quality of its products but also fosters a sense of pride and ownership among its suppliers.
(Lemongrass and Apple Mango Body Butter)
Today, Shea & More stands as a testament to the power of resilience and determination. By capturing the essence of natural beauty and celebrating the rich tapestry of Sierra Leonean heritage, Haja Dalanda Massally has carved a niche in the cosmetic market, reducing reliance on imported products and igniting a sense of national pride.
“As I look towards the future, I envision Shea & More not just dominating the local market but also making its mark on the global stage, and my advice to my fellow women is to stay focused, be determined, and believe in yourself that you can make it.” – Haja Danalda Massally
In a world where beauty is often defined by unrealistic standards, Shea & More serves as a reminder that true beauty lies in embracing one’s authenticity and celebrating the richness of diversity. Through innovation, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Haja Dalanda Massally and Shea & More are redefining beauty, one product at a time.
