So many small businesses start up in South Africa only to face closure due to a lack of funding, skills or mentorship. The inspiring story of Marice Rooibos Skincare stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how long-term support and guidance can empower a local enterprise to flourish. Through a dedicated partnership that transcends mere financial aid, this business has prospered, illustrating the transformative power of a  people-centred, shared value approach.

Marice Rooibos Skincare is a South African business founded by Marice Mercuur, specialising in natural, preservative-free skincare products formulated with locally sourced rooibos. Driven by a passion for natural healing and a commitment to quality, Mercuur offers a range of products for face and body, catering to individuals seeking gentle and effective skincare solutions.

Enel Green Power South Africa (part of the Enel Group - a global leader in the development and management of renewable energy sources) operates several renewable energy plants and is deeply committed to creating shared value within the communities where it operates, focusing on socio-economic development upliftment initiatives that promote sustainability and socio-economic empowerment.

Enel’s commitment to supporting sustainable development in local communities extends far beyond financial investment, as illustrated by its ongoing partnership with Marice Rooibos Skincare. With Enel’s support and unwavering belief in her potential, Marice has seen her business blossom into a recognised brand.

What began as a personal quest to soothe her daughter’s eczema using the natural properties of rooibos – a plant deeply rooted in her family’s heritage as rooibos tea farmers – has evolved into a thriving skincare line. Marice’s dedication to crafting natural, preservative-free products resonated with a growing market, leading to initial success within the local tourism sector.

However, this has not been without challenges - the unforeseen Covid-19 lockdowns in 2020 brought Marice Rooibos Skincare to the brink of closure. Heavily reliant on the hospitality industry, the business faced a drastic decline in orders. It was at this critical point that Enel’s intervention proved transformative.

"The support from Enel Green Power was a lifeline," says Marice. "The initial funding it provided allowed me to invest in essential equipment and raw materials, which immediately unlocked stagnant areas of my business. I was also able to upgrade my production studio and develop an online presence, thereby opening up new avenues for growth."

Enel’s support went beyond mere financial aid, however. Recognising the potential of Marice Rooibos Skincare through its Enterprise Development Programme, Enel provided  mentorship and business development support as Mercuur managed the complexities of scaling her enterprise. This holistic approach empowered her to refine her product range and meet the stringent standards of larger retailers.

Mantwa Mathebula, Head of Sustainability at Enel Green Power South Africa, emphasises the company’s long-term vision: "Our commitment to the communities in which we operate is deeply rooted in our Creating Shared Value model. We believe in empowering local entrepreneurs like Marice, not just with funding, but with the tools, knowledge and support they need to achieve sustainable growth and create a ripple effect that positively impacts others."

This sustained partnership helped when Marice Rooibos Skincare successfully secured a listing with Wellness Warehouse, a prominent retailer specialising in natural products. Initially facing rejection, the enhanced quality and presentation of her revamped product line, made possible through Enel’s support, impressed the retailer, leading to a trial period in two key locations.

This expansion has not only secured the future of Marice’s business, but has also created valuable employment opportunities within her community. To date, she has hired and empowered employees, all of whom receive comprehensive training and contribute to the timely delivery of high-quality products.

Recognising the logistical challenges of supplying a growing number of retail locations, Enel also provided additional funding that enabled Marice to purchase a vehicle for deliveries. This practical assistance shows Enel’s understanding of the real-world needs of small business owners.

Looking ahead, Marice has ambitious plans for her brand, including exploring export opportunities. While acknowledging the financial hurdle of meeting international compliance standards, she remains optimistic.

The story of Marice Rooibos Skincare serves as a compelling testament to the transformative power of authentic, impactful, value-driven  community engagement. Enel Green Power’s commitment to going beyond financial investment, offering mentorship, training and ongoing support, is not only enabling the growth of individual enterprises, but is also contributing to the long-term economic resilience and empowerment of South African communities.