Our #WCW today is Varaidzo Tendai Moyo, a Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur who has made a name for herself in the haircare industry. As the co-founder and CEO of Ruka Hair, Moyo is revolutionizing the way Afro-Caribbean women approach haircare and styling. Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, Moyo’s experiences growing up in a society where European beauty standards dominated, influenced her career path.
Moyo’s journey began in her hometown, where she witnessed firsthand the societal pressure on Black women to conform to traditional beauty standards. This exposure sparked her determination to challenge these norms and promote natural hair acceptance. After moving to Malawi and later the UK, Moyo noticed a significant lack of haircare options for Afro-Caribbean women, which further fueled her passion to create change.
Moyo’s academic background is impressive, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business, Mathematics & Statistics from the London School of Economics and Political Science. She also holds a certificate in Direct to Consumer from The Business of Fashion. Before co-founding Ruka Hair, Moyo worked in banking and consulting, gaining valuable experience that would later benefit her entrepreneurial ventures.
In 2021, Moyo took the leap and co-founded Ruka Hair with Nigerian colleague Ugo Agbai. The company’s mission is to provide high-quality, natural hair extensions that cater to the diverse needs of Afro-Caribbean women. Through crowdfunding, Ruka Hair quickly gained momentum, attracting investors who shared Moyo’s vision. Today, the company offers biodegradable hair extensions in various textures and lengths, making it a go-to brand for women seeking natural hair solutions.
Moyo’s success extends beyond her business accomplishments. She is also a vocal advocate for education and awareness about Afro-Caribbean haircare. Through training videos and partnerships with industry leaders like the British Beauty Council, Moyo is working to bridge the gap in haircare knowledge and promote inclusivity in the beauty industry
As the CEO of Ruka Hair, Moyo continues to break barriers and push boundaries. With Ruka Hair’s presence in Selfridges, a renowned department store, Moyo’s brand is poised for even greater success.
Dandaro Online, Zimbabwe Appreciation
