Issued by Staff writer: Joan Hendricks
Thuli Hlongwane from Primu Infotech has just launched two mobile apps that has taken off in the beauty therapy industry: Prim-U App for end-customers and Primlancer App for the freelancers. This on-demand technology platform for beauty therapy services, optimizes booking capacity, usage and eliminates waste for hair, nails, massage and makeup professionals thereby speeding convenience for consumers.
We caught up with Thuli and asked to elaborate on what the Prim-U app has to offer clients, how she got her business started and what challenges she had to overcome.
1. Please tell us more about yourself and what it is you do.
A: I am the founder and currently serves as managing director of Prim-U. I am a versatile and highly experienced IT management professional who specializes in project managing innovative IT solutions to improve infrastructure, system stability, functionality and efficiency. Having worked at senior leadership levels for large corporate’s, I am quick to familiarize myself with the latest technologies demonstrating a logical and analytical approach to solving complex problems and issues. I also have a passion for entrepreneurship and assisting entrepreneurs in starting and growing their businesses.
2. You have launched two mobile apps in 2018 that have taken off in the beauty therapy industry. Please share with us more about the apps and the solutions both are offering to consumers.
A: We attract customers by offering online booking for beauty services closest to their geographic location. We attract beauty freelancers by giving them the tools to succeed and have a reliable business.
3. What is Prim-U’s competitive advantage?
A: We are the first digital beauty service that focuses on convenience for the customer and brings employment to locals in South Africa.
4. How does it work?
A: Beauty and spa treatment appointments made at the customer’s convenience
5. What is next on your agenda?
A: We have recently upgraded the platform, and we are planning to advertise and market our services and engage with more service providers.
We are also participating in a DataHack4FI competition to explore the use of data for a combination of the latest machine learning, data mining, visualization and predictive analytics techniques.
6. What are some of the challenges you’ve encountered as an entrepreneur, and how have you overcome them?
A: Accessing valuable information can only be achieved by connecting with others. Networking is essential to leverage your strengths by tapping onto your networking repository. Use funds available wisely; there are a lot of hidden costs in running a business and only pay for the services that you need.
7. What advice would you give to female entrepreneurs hoping to start their own business?
A: Be clear about what your objectives are and strive towards achieving them while staying focused.
