Page 51 - KZN Top Business Women 2024

The essence of being a woman is humility and kindness,

and if you can spread that in the world, we’d have fewer problems

than we do have right now.

She also credited her husband, Vivian Reddy, as a to understand that everyone has a right to an opinion
Owner,
significant source of inspiration. “His work ethic is and for me to not get entangled. Importantly, nobody’s
Umhlanga Laser and Aesthetic Spa
exceptional, and he has always encouraged me to push opinion of you matters except your own.”
myself, to never say no, and to keep improving. He
orisha Naidoo is the owner of Umhlanga Laser and Offering advice to young women, Sorisha emphasised
Aesthetic Spa, as well as a frequency healing room. inspires me to be my best,” Sorisha revealed. the importance of kindness. “In today’s age of social
S“I’m also involved in export and import,” she said, Her dedication to excellence is evident in her approach media, kindness is often undervalued,” she observed.
describing her diverse professional pursuits. Reflecting to managing her business. “I pay attention to every “The essence of being a woman is humility and kindness,
on her early years, Sorisha recalled, “I studied journalism detail in my spa, from the way it smells when you walk and if you can spread that in the world, we’d have fewer
at Rhodes University a long time ago, which sparked my in, down to the minutest detail in the treatment room,” problems than we do have right now.”
interest in television and radio. But somehow, I found she explained. “I believe you’re only as strong as your
myself gravitating towards the beauty industry, opening last treatment, so I ensure that every client’s experience Looking ahead, Sorisha’s focus is on continual growth.
salons, and importing products, it just happened naturally.” is memorable from the moment they arrive to the “I’m constantly working on being a better mum,
moment they leave. For me that’s an important strategy.” especially as my children grow into adulthood,” she
She explained that her journey in the beauty industry said. “I want to ensure they have good values when they
began 16 years ago when she recognised a gap in the When asked about her achievements, Sorisha high- step out into the world. Being a better mother, sister,
market. “I’ve never stopped since then, and it remains my lighted a few key moments. “Earning my journalism daughter, and businesswoman is an ongoing challenge,
passion. It’s funny how you study one thing, but your flair degree was a big accomplishment for me. I also took but one I welcome.”
for something else takes charge.” part in Miss India South Africa about 24 years ago, which She also acknowledged that juggling multiple

The transition into beauty came naturally during her was quite a surprise because I never saw myself as a responsibilities can lead to burnout. “Women often
time in radio and acting. “After working at a local radio pageant type,” she said. “Winning that competition, as a spread themselves too thin, trying to keep up in a male-
station in KwaZulu-Natal, I moved to a Johannesburg self-described tomboy, was a shocker for me.” However, dominated world,” she noted. “It’s essential to take breaks,
radio station and dipped into acting. As an actress, I Sorisha regards her role as a mother as her greatest find balance, and stay true to yourself.”
realised there was a constant need to look my best, which achievement. “It might sound crazy, but being a mom
sparked an interest in anti-ageing and skincare,” she said. and raising my kids is the most fulfilling job I’ve ever Her participation in “The Real Housewives of Durban” has
“I started exploring natural treatments and was drawn had,” she stated. “Watching them grow, develop their been an unexpected source of growth. “We’re about to
into the beauty industry.” own interests, and embark on different career paths has start our fifth season, and navigating the dynamics of the
been an epic journey.” show is always interesting,” she explained. “The reason
Sorisha described her current dream as championing I keep going back is that I want to find out how you
alternative healing through her frequency healing Sorisha’s compassion extends beyond her business get to a balance when you’re in a contentious situation
technology. “I want to establish this alternative healing ventures to charity, especially animal welfare. “I’m a and be able to come out the other side unscathed. It’s a
approach in South Africa, allowing people to heal big supporter of the SPCA and Pug Rescue,” she said. “I mental challenge that keeps me on my toes and helps
without the involvement of too many pharmaceutical currently have five pugs, and they are formidable pets. me release pent-up emotions.”
companies,” she asserted. “It’s about offering a different Many people adopt animals for the good times but
way for people to look after themselves.” aren’t prepared for the full journey, including the difficult For Sorisha, balance is achieved through yoga, high-
moments when they get older.” intensity training, and quality time with her family and
First Role Models pets. “I’m passionate about yoga and exercise; it’s my
Importance of Kindness release,” she said. “And of course, lots of green tea — it’s
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial drive, Sorisha credited my go-to for calming down.”
her family’s influence. “My parents were businesspeople Navigating the public eye, Sorisha acknowledged,
and my first role models. I worked in their store from a comes with its challenges. “Being in the industry means Sorisha Naidoo’s journey is one of continuous evolution
young age, learning the value of independence,” she said. facing scrutiny and criticism as well as backlash for and an unwavering pursuit of her passions. “I don’t think
“Even though I worked in corporate for a while, I always certain judgements or opinions,” she said. “I’ve found there’s a limit to what we can achieve,” she concluded.
aspired to be my own boss and not work nine to five.” that I’ve needed to have a very thick skin over the years “Dreams evolve, and I’m always ready for the next one.”

Sorisha NAIDOO | 49