Claire Amondi is the founder and CEO of Agnes – Pure & Regal, a local skincare line.
She established the company after experiencing some skin issues and she hopes to inspire and promote the importance of healthy skin.
Agnes processes and sells among other products moisturizing creams, facial oils, cleansing gels and face toners.
Here is Claire’s story as told by WoK.
In an interview with Lionesses of Africa, Claire mentions that she established the company after experiencing skin related issues.
After some time, she discovered that rose water calmed her skin and after a long search, she was able to get some from a local brand.
However, Claire was later disappointed when she realised the company had been closed down when she went to refill her bottle of rose water.
It was then when she decided to come up with a permanent solution.
“I tried looking for another option but was unsuccessful. It was then that I decided to delve into the world of cosmetic formulation and make my own rose water,” Claire said.
At first, Claire was making the rose water for her personal use, but after sharing samples with friends, the feedback was great and she ended up commercializing the product.
“…that’s how our beloved first product, Waridi Love, was created. I decided to name the business after my late sister, Agnes, who was the love of my life. I hope to honor her with a brand that celebrates the beauty in each and every one of us,” she said.
Claire noted that the company’s research is science-based, ensuring that their products are clean and safe for skincare use.
“I want and hope to grow Agnes to become a recognizable name in the beauty and wellness industry in Africa. I aspire to continue to constantly improve the quality of our products and create the best products possible together with the right team,” she said.
As a company, Claire says that their main focus is to create products that promote healthy and radiant skin.
“We believe that everyone can achieve healthy skin that is radiant, plump, hydrated and soft,” she stated.
Failed business
Claire also spoke about her entrepreneurial journey and other failed ventures that she was previously involved in.
She mentioned that immediately after graduating from university, she partnered with a friend to start a fashion line but the business failed not long after.
“Although we were very passionate and motivated, we still had a lot to learn, made many mistakes and unfortunately the business failed,” Claire said.
However, this experience did not deter Claire from venturing into business again.
She also attributes the success of Agnes to her parents who are successful entrepreneurs.
“Both my parents are entrepreneurs and I’ve grown up watching them build their businesses and eventually joining them. This has been a great source of knowledge, inspiration and motivation,” Claire said.
Future plans
In future, Claire hopes to steer Agnes to become a recognizable name in the beauty industry in Africa and beyond.
‘Positive feedback from our customers will always top it for me. It gives me the fuel to keep pushing forward and keep improving our offerings
“I aspire to continue to constantly improve the quality of our products and create the best products possible together with the right team,” she said.
