SUAVE DESIGNS

Refilwe Hlaoli is a marketing professional and innovation advocate with a career rooted in purpose, strategy and social impact. She holds qualifications from CEIBS Africa and the IMM Graduate School of Marketing, and began her professional journey in the financial sector, where she worked with leading asset management firms, specialising in client engagement, business development and quality management systems.

Motivated by personal experience and a desire to create meaningful solutions, Refilwe transitioned into entrepreneurship, leading initiatives that integrate product innovation, botanical research and sustainable manufacturing. Her work bridges science and tradition to address real-world needs in the personal care space.

Among her achievements is the successful co-creation of a partnership with German industry collaborators, a pioneering effort to bring global innovation, technical excellence and knowledge exchange into African-led product development. Refilwe continues to champion inclusive growth, youth empowerment and ethical business as core pillars of her work.

Tumelo Kgokong is a highly experienced senior chemist and partner at Suave Designs (Pty) Ltd, bringing over 20 years of expertise in product development, laboratory analysis, R&D analysis, and quality control. His extensive background in chemistry, particularly within the pharmaceutical industry, allows him to apply advanced scientific principles to the development of innovative personal care products.

Tumelo's deep understanding of chemical formulations and regulatory requirements ensures that all products not only meet but exceed industry standards for quality and safety. His ability to lead complex projects from conception through to successful launch has been instrumental in driving the company's commitment to excellence. Tumelo's passion for innovation and meticulous attention to detail significantly enhance the value of our product offerings, making him an invaluable asset to our team and to the future growth of Suave Designs.

Bonolo Hlaoli is a trailblazer in the field of cosmetic science, seamlessly blending advanced formulation skills with a genuine passion for skincare. With hands-on experience in cosmetic formulation and product development gained through her work alongside a senior cosmetics chemist in the family business. Currently pursuing advanced studies in Cosmetic Science at COSCHEM, she brings both structure and innovation to the Suave Designs laboratory.

 

As our Lab Technician and Product Development Lead, Bonolo is the creative mind behind our product range, from cleansers and moisturisers to liquid foundations (in every shade under the sun) and of course, our game-changing sunscreens, including tinted options. She’s especially instrumental in our collaborative sunscreen innovation project with German partners, where she’s leading the shift toward sustainable, mineral-based SPF solutions.

 

Bonolo is also a qualified professional skin therapist from Madge Wallace International School of Skin, which gives her a rare dual perspective: she understands both the formulation and the real-world skin concerns that products are meant to address. Passionate about education and empowerment, she’s building bridges with local schools to spark young interest in cosmetic science and she dreams of establishing an academy that teaches school leavers how to formulate beauty products, especially colour cosmetics, that celebrate diversity.

 

Whether she’s mixing the next bestseller or mentoring future chemists, Bonolo does it with flair, focus and a touch of fun.

Portia Thipe is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in the retail industry and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree. As Operations Manager at Luna Aesthetics Clinic, Portia plays a pivotal role in aligning daily operations with the clinic’s long-term strategic goals. With a proven track record in driving performance, meeting ambitious targets, and cultivating meaningful client relationships, Portia brings a results-driven mindset fused with genuine client care. Her ability to balance operational excellence with a warm, client-centric approach ensures that Luna not only delivers exceptional service but also builds lasting trust with its community. Portia’s leadership is instrumental in guiding the clinic’s growth—strengthening internal processes, nurturing the team, and fostering a culture of consistency, professionalism, and innovation. Her dedication to continuous improvement makes her an invaluable asset in Luna’s mission to provide transformative skincare experiences and establish itself as a leader in aesthetic wellness.

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Lettie Mahlangu is a dedicated Business Management graduate and the Client Relations & Partnerships Coordinator at Luna Aesthetics. With a strong foundation in administration, strategy and people management, she has grown into a client-facing role where her passion for connection and collaboration shines.

In her current position, Lettie plays a vital role in expanding Luna’s reach by identifying and engaging with potential partners, from healthcare professionals to wellness centres and community organisations. She brings strength in relationship-building, proposal development and aligning partnerships with Luna’s mission of delivering expert skincare solutions.

 

In addition to her business acumen, Lettie is a trained Skin Therapist who conducts personalised consultations, helping clients understand their skin needs and guiding them toward effective treatments. Her unique combination of professionalism, empathy and technical skill ensures that clients and partners alike feel supported and valued. She continues to bridge the gap between strategy and client care, helping Luna Aesthetics grow as both a trusted skincare provider and a collaborative wellness partner.

Noluthando Mtshali is a qualified Aesthetician with a keen research-driven approach to skincare. A graduate of the Madge Wallace International School of Skin, she brings a sharp clinical eye and deep personal insight to her role at Luna Aesthetics Clinic.

 

Specialising in the treatment of acne-prone skin, Noluthando's work is rooted in both scientific knowledge and lived experience. Her personal journey with acne has shaped a professional mission: to find effective, tailored solutions for individuals at every stage of life — from adolescents to mature adults. Her precision in delivering treatments, coupled with her empathetic approach, sets her apart as a trusted skincare expert.

 

As the coordinator of Luna Aesthetics’ wellness programmes, Noluthando leads educational initiatives that promote skin health awareness and preventative care. She plays a key role in informing the public on skin conditions, including the early signs of skin cancer and her work actively contributes to community engagement and public health education. Through these programmes, she also fosters strategic partnerships that influence Suave Designs’ product development and targeted skincare innovations.

 

Working closely with Alinda Nukwa, Noluthando is committed to advancing skin health through knowledge, innovation and a genuine dedication to client wellbeing.