Discovering yourself, naturally

Young vibrant and ambitious, Mareka Masule, is the founder of Ilotu Cosmetics. Masule decided to venture into the cosmetics industry mainly to help others realise the importance of self-care and self-awareness in terms of skin and hair care.
Octavia Tsibes
Elizabeth Joseph





Ilotu Cosmetics came to existence not only to provide products for skin and hair care but also to bring about a change of scenery for Masule. She wants to be known as more than just a graphic designer and a dancer.

”When my uncle passed away from skin cancer 4 years ago, it brought to my attention that there are so many individuals out there who end up with certain reactions, sicknesses and illnesses due to something simple as food and what they apply to their skin,” says Masule.

In 2017, Masule graduated from the Institution of Information Technology (IIT) with a Diploma in

Visual Media & Desktop Publishing. Masule is also a professional contemporary dancer for First Rain Dance Theatre, mentored by Tulimelila Shityuwete and Haymich Olivier. She uses her dance as a method to stay fit but she is also nurtures her passion for dance.

“I absolutely love exploring different kinds of dance as dance is my best form of therapy and helps me stay healthy and remain in shape,” she says.

Marketing and the product

Since its inception in 2017, Ilotu Cosmetics has been a growing venture. Her form of marketing was ‘word of mouth’ to inform her customers on their product.

They have also recently created accounts on Instagram and Facebook and will be using these platforms to reach more clients.

”We've been reaching out to our customers through Whatsapp and word of mouth,” says Masule.

”My sisters and I have always been interested in essential oils and how powerful their anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties are especially when it comes to dealing with certain hair and skin problems,” she further adds.

With its anti-fungal and inflammatory properties, these essential oils help with various skin conditions like Athletes foot and acne.

“Our skin is the largest organ in the human body and therefore it’s crucial to pay attention to what we apply to it. Ilotu's skin & healthcare products help in treating various skin conditions ranging from Athletes foot to the common acne/oily and dry/sensitive skin,” says Masule.

Ilotu strives to help young people and women in particular realise the importance of natural oils for the skin and hair.

Mareka says she makes use of their shampoos, conditioners, full body detox clays because she works out frequently.

The next few years

Ilotu Cosmetics has no plans of stopping now, as a matter of fact they have only just begun. They hope to become the desired organic cosmetics brand in Namibia. The company also has plans to empower and employ more young people as they grow.

“We want to do our part in decreasing youth unemployment,” says Masule. “It would also be an awesome milestone reached, if our products could be found in at least 5 retail outlets,” she further added.

Masule’s inspiration

“My younger sister inspires me. She's such a burst of sunshine who's constantly full of energy and she always does the most the keep not only me but everyone around her smiling. It keeps me going as she always points out the good in any situation I find myself in. Thanks Kabz,” added Masule.

Masule is not only driven but passion is present in everything she pursues. She sends out strong advice to many young, Namibian women out there.

“My advice to other young women out there is to remain focused on WHO THEY ARE...to discover their strengths and passions, and build on them. They should also know their weakness, accept them, but work on mitigating them, and not focus on them,” she says.

“It has been said that, 'if you educate a girl child, you educate a nation'. So be bald, explore, and take charge,” she adds

"... For who knows? Maybe you were made to be queen for such a time as this! “Esther 4:14

“There’s no reigning on Masule’s parade. The next few years are going to be brighter than ever for Ilotu Cosmetics” said an enthusiastic Masule.