The Quntas: Balancing financial security, igniting passions, and crafting a legacy.

When I visited Lusanda and Dumisani Qunta to prepare for our February edition, their energy and passion for their work were palpable. Sitting across from this power couple in their cozy Despatch home, I was struck by their harmonious dynamic, a reflection of their shared vision and mutual respect. Parents to three beautiful daughters, the Quntas are not just partners in life but also in business, managing two impactful brands: Mvemnyama Enterprise and Be Your Life (BYL).

Their story is one of resilience, creativity, and purpose. Lusanda and Dumisani deeply believe in creating multiple streams of income - a philosophy that underpins their entrepreneurial endeavours. “With the rising cost of living, relying on a single income is no longer practical,” Dumisani explains. “Multiple streams ensure financial security while allowing us to pursue our passions and build a legacy for our daughters.” For the Quntas, entrepreneurship isn’t just about financial gain; it’s also about empowerment, impact, and teaching their children the values of hard work and resilience.

The journey of starting their brands, Mvemnyama Enterprise (MvM) and BYL, is deeply personal and rooted in their individual passions. Dumisani, inspired by his upbringing in vibrant township culture, founded Mvemnyama Enterprise to celebrate kasi heritage and individuality. “Growing up in the township taught me resilience and the importance of self-expression,” he says. Mvemnyama Enterprise is more than a clothing brand—it’s a movement. It empowers young creatives and entrepreneurs to embrace their heritage and take pride in their individuality.

BYL, on the other hand, is Lusanda’s brainchild, born from her qualifications in social work and professional cookery. The brand merges holistic well-being, organic farming, and community empowerment. “BYL reflects my commitment to helping people find balance and purpose in their lives,” Lusanda shares. Through psychosocial programs and organic farming initiatives, BYL supports disadvantaged communities, merging passion with purpose.

“While our brands are different, our vision aligns,” Dumisani adds. “We aim to create solutions that truly matter while making an impact on our community.”

Both brands are deeply influenced by the Quntas’ personal and professional experiences. Mvemnyama Enterprise’s fashion lines, Mvemnyama Apparel and Tshyw, embody Dumisani’s vision of celebrating and uplifting his community. “Kasi culture is all about pride and resilience,” he explains. “Our designs empower people to embrace their identity and tell their unique stories.” The concept behind Tshyw, inspired by the kasi term “utshayiwe” (“You are smoked”), symbolizes strength and individuality.

Lusanda’s background in social work informs every aspect of BYL. Her extensive experience with vulnerable communities has taught her the importance of holistic well-being. “True empowerment starts from within,” she says. “BYL addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals, creating a space for healing and growth.” The emphasis on organic farming and sustainable living underscores the brand’s mission to nurture both people and the planet.

One particularly inspiring aspect of their journey is Dumisani’s creation of Melaguard, a skincare line tailored for Black African skin. His motivation stemmed from personal struggles with skin issues. “I tried countless products and consulted dermatologists, but nothing worked,” he recalls. Determined to find a solution, he studied formulation sciences and began creating his own skincare products.

Melaguard was born from this journey of trial and error. Dumisani’s dedication to researching natural ingredients and collaborating with dermatologists resulted in a line addressing the unique needs of melanated skin. “It’s more than just a skincare product; it’s a reflection to the resilience and resourcefulness of our community,” he says. Melaguard’s success has been deeply fulfilling for Dumisani, who sees it as a way to help others navigate their skincare challenges.

Managing BYL’s diverse initiatives - from psychosocial interventions to organic farming - requires careful planning and a deep understanding of interconnectedness. “Spiritual growth, emotional stability, and physical health are all intertwined,” Lusanda explains. BYL’s programs aim to create harmony by addressing all these aspects.

The couple’s emphasis on organic farming reinforces this vision. “What we put into our bodies affects not just our physical health but also our emotional and mental well-being,” Lusanda says. Through sustainable farming practices, BYL promotes clean eating and educates communities on proper nutrition.

Running two thriving brands requires meticulous time management and teamwork. Lusanda primarily focuses on BYL, while Dumisani leads Mvemnyama Enterprise. “We’re both passionate about our individual brands, but we’re equally committed to supporting each other,” Dumisani says. The couple relies on digital tools to plan schedules and track progress, with regular check-ins to align their goals. “Our partnership is our strength,” Lusanda adds. “We balance each other out and push each other to be the best versions of ourselves.”

At the heart of their journey is a commitment to community empowerment. Mvemnyama Enterprise and BYL are not just businesses; they are platforms for positive change. Through their work, the Quntas create opportunities for others while building a legacy for their family.

As they look to the future, Dumisani envisions Mvemnyama Enterprise becoming a global movement celebrating African culture and entrepreneurship. Lusanda hopes to position BYL as a leading force in holistic well-being, offering innovative solutions that address individual and community needs.

As our conversation winds down, I can’t help but admire the Quntas’ unwavering dedication to their mission. Their journey is a powerful reminder that true success lies in purpose-driven work that uplifts and inspires others. For Lusanda and Dumisani, entrepreneurship is more than a career; it’s a calling, a way to create a better future for their family and their community.

For more, follow: Mvemnyama Enterprise & Backyard Lifestyle