In the heart of Johannesburg’s ever-evolving beauty scene, Bongi Mabentsela has built something that feels both modern and timeless — a sanctuary where lashes, brows, and artistry converge. As the founder and CEO of Shugarlashpro, Bongi has, in just two short years, turned her brand into one of the city’s leading lash and beauty bars. Her clients include everyone from The Real Housewives and beloved television personalities to Miss Universe titleholders — a testament to her precise eye and impeccable craft.
But for Bongi, beauty has never been about trends. It’s about transformation.
From Cruise Ships to Creative Visionary
With over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, Bongi’s story begins long before Shugarlashpro became a household name. After earning her Beauty Diploma from Camelot International, she set sail — quite literally — working as an international nail technician aboard cruise ships.
Those years travelling across Europe exposed her to global beauty standards, textures, and techniques — but more importantly, they sparked a desire to innovate within Africa’s own beauty landscape. “Working on cruise ships taught me composure under pressure,” she says. “To maintain standards, no matter the storm.”
It’s this quiet discipline, paired with a bold creative streak, that has defined her journey ever since. Under Bongi’s leadership, Shugarlashpro has evolved from a local brand into a growing beauty powerhouse. After sponsoring Mrs South Africa last year, the brand is now expanding into a franchise model, opening doors for young beauty entrepreneurs eager to enter the industry and build their own success stories within the Shugarlashpro family.
Pexel images
Setting Trends, Not Following Them
“Creating is an act of love,” Bongi says when asked what makes Shugarlashpro different. “It’s a balance between precision, passion, and intuition.”
At Shugarlashpro, every lash set and brow design tells a story — one of confidence, artistry, and transformation. The brand doesn’t chase trends; it redefines them. “We draw inspiration from the world around us, but our true edge comes from years of immersion in the industry. I’ve spent so much time perfecting this craft that I’ve trained my eye to see what’s next before everyone else does.”
That instinct, she says, is what keeps Shugarlashpro ahead of the curve — creating looks that feel effortlessly luxurious, yet deeply personal.
The Art of Luxury
When it comes to defining luxury, Bongi’s answer isn’t about price tags or exclusivity — it’s about presence.
“Luxury is the feeling of being handled with grace,” she explains. “It’s the calmness of a refined environment and the precision of an artist who truly cares about what they do.”
From the way clients are welcomed to the soft tone of a technician’s voice, every detail matters. “Luxury lives in the details,” she adds. “A Shugarlashpro look stands out because it’s meticulously crafted. It’s art guided by empathy.”
Beauty Without Boundaries
In an industry often obsessed with uniformity, Bongi’s approach celebrates diversity in all its forms. “Africa is rich with different eye shapes, skin tones, textures, and preferences — our approach has to honour that.”
Through the Shugarlashpro Academy, she’s shaping a new generation of lash and brow artists who value personalisation over perfection. “We don’t believe in a one-look-fits-all philosophy. Beauty should never exclude — it should reveal.”
The Academy also integrates DISC personality training, a unique addition that teaches artists to understand their clients beyond the physical. “Inclusivity isn’t just about appearances,” Bongi notes. “It’s about understanding people — their energy, their story, their comfort.”
Building with Heart and Integrity
Behind every glossy brand image is a story of resilience. For Bongi, that means rebuilding, refining, and constantly learning. “The road hasn’t been easy,” she admits. “But every challenge sharpened my vision. The greatest lesson I’ve learned? Never compromise the standard. Excellence attracts excellence.”
It’s a principle that has not only shaped Shugarlashpro’s reputation but also anchored its success.
The Lash Lifestyle
For those wondering how to keep their lashes looking flawless between visits, Bongi has her golden rules:
1. Cleanse with a gentle, oil-free lash shampoo.
2. Brush lightly each morning to maintain shape.
3. Avoid oil-based products near the eyes.
4. Sleep on your back or side, not on your face.
5. Book refills every 2–3 weeks to stay balanced and fresh.
“Good aftercare turns a lash set into a lifestyle,” she says. “It’s the secret to lasting results and healthy natural lashes.”
And for newcomers? “Start with a proper consultation. Don’t rush into the most dramatic look. Let your artist guide you. The relationship between you and your lash artist is a partnership — they create the art, but you preserve it.”
A Future Written in Lash Lines
Looking ahead, Bongi’s vision is clear: expansion with impact. Shugarlashpro is growing its training academy, refining its franchise model, and launching digital education and product supplies for lash and brow artists across Africa.
“I want African artists to be recognised globally for their technique, creativity, and professionalism,” she says with conviction. “My dream is to make Shugarlashpro synonymous with excellence — born in Africa, respected worldwide.”
Her philosophy remains rooted in the same principles that guided her from the very beginning — discipline, elegance, and genuine care.
Because in Bongi Mabentsela’s world, beauty isn’t just what you see — it’s how you make people feel. And that’s the kind of artistry that never goes out of style.
