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Meet Phumulile Mkhonza, Mpumalanga’s very own fragrance queen

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Meet Phumulile Mkhonza, Mpumalanga’s very own fragrance queen

October 9, 2024
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In the heart of Mpumalanga, the luxurious world of scents and fragrances is being redefined by Phumulile Mkhonza, the founder of PSD Scent Perfumes. A dynamic businesswoman and mother of two, Phumulile has turned her passion for fine fragrances into a growing empire that not only caters to personal body care but also offers an array of home care products. With her keen sense of innovation and determination, she's been able to make her mark in a competitive industry, all while balancing family life and entrepreneurship.

From humble beginnings, PSD Scent Perfumes now manufactures and wholesales perfumes, fragranced body lotions, body butters, and tissue oils. Phumulile recently expanded her product range to include natural reed diffusers, scented linen sprays, and car air fresheners. She also offers a unique perfume filling and capping service, aimed at supporting emerging perfumers. Her clientele extends to lodges, guest houses, and hotels across the country.

Phumulile Mkhonza transforms her love for fragrances into a thriving business with PSD Scent Perfumes, offering personal care and home products while empowering fellow entrepreneurs

Reflecting on her journey, Phumulile shares, "As a university student, I couldn't afford designer perfumes, but I loved smelling good. During recess, I took a perfume-making course and began creating my own scents using raw materials I could afford. After positive feedback from family and friends, I launched PSD Scent Perfumes in 2019, officially registering the business in 2022."

Her drive for continuous growth led her to enter the prestigious Nedbank Pitch & Polish competition. "I entered to refine my pitching skills and business model. Making it through the first round was awake-up call-I needed to pay closer attention to my financials and adapt my marketing strategy. The experience has been invaluable, especially learning from the judges and other entrepreneurs."

But the road to success hasn't been without challenges. For Phumulile, gaining access to both funding and markets were among the biggest hurdles. "When I started the business, I was fully employed and used my savings to launch it. In 2022, after resigning, I received government funding that helped me grow." Her perseverance has paid off, as her business recentlyacquired its first delivery vehicle through government assistance.

Phumulile Mkhonza started creating her own perfumes as a university student because she couldn't afford designer fragrances.

In just a few short years, PSD Scent Perfumes has celebrated several milestones. Phumulile and her team have exhibited at the prestigious Business Show Africa at the Sandton Convention Centre for two consecutive years(2023 and 2024), and the company now boasts a nationwide network of distributors. Additionally, PSD Scent Perfumes was selected as one of the 22beneficiaries of the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Flagship Programme, a Pan-African initiative designed to empower entrepreneurs.

When asked about her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, Phumulile doesn't hesitate: "Start that business with the little that you have and fully commit to it. Entrepreneurship isn't for the faint-hearted-there will be sunny and rainy days, but you must never give up on your dream."

Despite her demanding schedule, Phumulile finds balance with the unwavering support of her family. "My partner, siblings, and parents have been incredible. They've supported me emotionally and financially, allowing me to pursue my business goals while raising two children."

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