In the bustling streets of Uganda, where international brands often dominate the beauty industry, Julia Karungii, the visionary entrepreneur behind Bubbly Inner Beauty Limited, has embarked on a remarkable journey. With an unwavering determination to create something extraordinary, Julia’s path to success is woven with passion, resilience, and a commitment to environmental consciousness. What started as a venture in beading has blossomed into a thriving enterprise, specialising in handmade natural oil soaps and detergents. Julia shares with us her entrepreneurial odyssey, the challenges she has faced, and her unwavering pursuit of quality, affordability, and social impact. Prepare to be inspired as we delve into the extraordinary mind of an entrepreneur who is redefining the made-in-Africa narrative, one bubble at a time.
From Beads to Bubbles: Julia Karungii’s Green Revolution in Uganda’s Beauty Industry
FAB: Julia Karungii, tell us about your journey as an entrepreneur and how you came to establish Bubbly Inner Beauty Limited.
Julia Karungii: I found it challenging to find a job after university, so I decided to pursue something I enjoyed. I started my business from home, but it wasn’t initially focused on cleaning or soap products. I began with beading, which was not very common in the Ugandan community as people preferred imported products. Over time, I got married and had children. With a young family, I wanted more flexibility to spend time with my children, so I started producing natural oil soaps from home, which allowed me to be present for them.
As my children started going to school and I had more responsibilities at home, the workload became overwhelming. I had a small room where I produced the soaps, but it felt like I was still working from home. To address this, I established a pocket factory next to my house and began recruiting people to work for me. This is how we have reached where we are today. Everyone has their talents, and mine is creating things with my hands rather than just following instructions. I enjoy being my own boss because it allows me to pursue what I want.
FAB: You initially started with beading and later ventured into soap making. Why did you choose soap making, specifically focusing on handmade natural oil soaps and detergents?
Julia: The decision to focus on soapmaking was influenced by the global trend towards environmental consciousness. We are becoming more mindful of our environment, and the world is embracing green practises. The products I initially started using were ones that I personally found better than those containing artificial chemicals. In Uganda, we have an abundance of herbs, so I wanted to create something natural. Choosing to go green aligns with the global movement.
Everyone has their talents, and mine is creating things with my hands rather than just following instructions. I enjoy being my own boss because it allows me to pursue what I want.
Julia Karungii
FAB: How do you ensure that your products are skin-friendly and meet the demand for quality and affordability?
Julia Karungii: In Uganda, we have the UNBS (Ugandan Bureau of Standards), and I ensure that my products undergo testing to ensure they are balanced and do not have any negative effects on the skin. Our products do not contain toxic chemicals; they are purely natural.
FAB: Julia Karungii, what has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an entrepreneur in Uganda, and how have you overcome these challenges?
Julia Karungii: Changing people’s mindsets has been a significant challenge. When it comes to natural products, people tend to favour internationally recognised brands. It is difficult to make people understand the benefits of our products. Additionally, as an Ugandan entrepreneur, I hope for more support from the government in promoting our products. Currently, we lack sufficient support, and we have to rely on our own efforts for marketing. We utilise social media and local advertising, but it remains a challenge. However, we are continuously making progress.
FAB: Recently, you secured a $20,000 grant. How will this grant enhance your business?
Julia Karungii: The grant was obtained through the NSSF (National Social Security Fund) in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation. It aims to help us improve our market presence and acquire the necessary materials for our business. We also plan to open an outlet where we can educate people about our products and have a physical space for customers. The grant will also support our social media marketing efforts as the world becomes increasingly digital. In Uganda, there has been a focus on promoting women, and the grant will aid us in showcasing our products online for wider visibility.
Compliance and proper registration have been key factors in securing these opportunities.
Julia Karungii
FAB: African products often face criticism for being more expensive and lower in quality compared to imported brands. How do you address quality management to counter these negative perceptions surrounding made-in-Africa products?
Julia Karungii: First and foremost, our products are certified. Each product we produce goes through rigorous testing at the bureau. We have also collaborated with retired experts in skincare management, who have provided training, guidance, and assistance in maintaining quality and developing effective formulas. We also provide continuous training for our staff to ensure they stay up-to-date with industry standards.
FAB: Julia Karungii, what is your secret formula for attracting grants and funding opportunities?
Julia Karungii: I believe in doing business the right way and not taking shortcuts. By registering our business with the appropriate bureaus, complying with government policies, and paying taxes and social responsibilities, we position ourselves for opportunities. We have organised our accounts and ensured that we have everything in place when inspections occur. Compliance and proper registration have been key factors in securing these opportunities. Additionally, after being affected by COVID-19, we received grants from private sector foundations, which helped us with production and market research. Our adherence to compliance and registration requirements has made us stand out and gain recognition.
FAB: How do you balance the demands of running a business with your personal life and other interests? How do you stay motivated and inspired?
Julia Karungii: Balancing business and personal lives can be challenging. However, I maintain open communication with my staff and foster a work environment where we function as a family and a team. Effective communication and the flow of information within the team are crucial. We hold regular meetings to discuss challenges and goals for the week and address any concerns. This creates a positive work environment. My staff members are young, and we are growing together. There was a time when I was away for a month, and the work continued smoothly without any complaints from the team. I stay motivated by fostering a supportive and communicative work environment.
To me, success means making a difference in other people’s lives… I feel successful because I make a difference for those I purchase products from, those who handle our packaging, our driver, and others.
Julia Karungii
FAB: When you’re not working, where do you relax in Uganda?
Julia Karungii: Due to family and work commitments, my relaxation time is limited. I dedicate Fridays to spending time with my children. On Saturdays, we go out as a family if there are no sports activities or family events. Sundays are our designated family days, so we stay at home. Occasionally, in the evenings, I go out with friends for drinks. I used to enjoy clubs, but nowadays, it’s more about going out for something light and returning home.
FAB: How do you source your ingredients, and what criteria do you use to select them?
Julia Karungii: We have suppliers who produce organic oils. We work with certified producers of organic products to ensure the quality of our ingredients. We also source from the market and importers who provide compliant certificates to guarantee the origin of the products.
FAB: Are there any new products and services you plan to introduce in the near future, and how do you believe they will benefit your customers?
Julia: Apart from natural products, we are currently focusing on detergent production. Our upcoming products include liquid glass cleaners and dog shampoos.
FAB: Personally, what does success mean to you?
Julia Karungii: To me, success means making a difference in other people’s lives. Success extends beyond my own achievements. For instance, when I employ a chemist, the impact goes beyond them to their household, family, and the education their children receive. I consider my success to be the network I create and the people who benefit from it. I feel successful because I make a difference for those I purchase products from, those who handle our packaging, our driver, and others. The money we use to purchase things in the market goes on to pay for medical expenses, rent, and more. That is how I perceive success. Order from BUBBLY INNER BEAUTY LTD.
Fun Zone: #FabFast5
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That would be the source of the Nile.
- What colour can you be found in 250 days out of 365 days of the year?
Green.
- What kind of food would you be seen sneaking around to eat without wanting to share with anyone?
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