Visionary. Resilient. Empowered.
We are thrilled to honour Tabby Kara this Women's Day for her remarkable contributions to the health and beauty industry.
With over 26 years of dedicated service as the owner of Skin & Body International, Tabby has been at the forefront of advanced Aesthetic treatments, offering a range of services from Laser Hair Removal to Slimming treatments such as body contouring and skin tightening. Her expertise in areas like laser hair removal, microneedling and skin resurfacing exemplifies her commitment to enhancing both the appearance and confidence of her clients.
Tabby's journey began with a strong foundation in statistics, having worked at South African Druggists and Standard Bank before shifting her focus to health and beauty. Her education at Camelot International Health & Beauty Institute was marked by outstanding achievements, including multiple top student awards, which laid the groundwork for her successful career.
While still a student, Tabby contributed to the industry magazine, Beauty Worx as a part-time writer and her long career is further highlighted in receiving the Bronze status as a salon owner from the South African Association of Health & Skincare Professionals (SAAHSP).
Her passion for excellence and continuous improvement in her field make her a true trailblazer. Tabby embodies the spirit of innovation and leadership, and her long-standing commitment to the health and beauty industry makes her a deserving honouree this Women's Day.
What inspired your transition from a career in statistics to owning a health and beauty business, and how did your analytical skills influence your approach to the industry?
“In 1995, women in the corporate sector continued to encounter significant barriers, including the glass ceiling. As a statistical analyst, I faced substantial limitations in advancing to higher positions, which were largely dominated by men.
Frustrated by these constraints, I decided to pivot and explore entrepreneurship, choosing to transition into the Health & Beauty industry due to my interest in the nurturing fields. It soon became clear that this was my true calling.”
Can you share a particular moment or challenge in your career that significantly shaped your approach to skin and body treatments and how it impacted your professional journey?
“A pivotal moment in my career profoundly reshaped my approach to skin and body treatments, and it all began as a simple student assignment. Tasked with surveying hygiene standards at five local salons, I was taken aback by the alarming lack of proper disinfecting practices. The neglect I encountered was not just disappointing—it was deeply unsettling. I was struck by how crucial hygiene is in our industry, and this experience crystallized a conviction in me: I would never allow my business to be associated with such shortcomings.
Determined to set a new standard, I launched my business 30 kilometers away from my hometown, driven by a desire to create a distinct and superior experience. The commitment to impeccable hygiene and meticulous attention to detail became the cornerstones of my practice. My focus on these aspects was not just about compliance; it was about fostering trust and providing a sanctuary where clients felt genuinely cared for and safe.
Three years into running my business, I faced a new personal experience — I was about to bringing a child into this world! I made the decision to relocate my business to my premises at home, a move that unexpectedly catalyzed its growth. The shift to a more intimate, home-based setting allowed me to deepen client relationships and enhance my service quality. The word-of-mouth referrals I received were a testament to the difference our rigorous standards made. Clients appreciated not only the visible aspects of our service but also the invisible—our unwavering commitment to cleanliness and professionalism.
This experience taught me that the most impactful elements of our business are often the ones not immediately visible. Understanding and anticipating client needs, combined with a flawless presentation, create an environment where excellence is felt deeply. In the world of skin and body treatments, it’s not just about what you see; it’s about the integrity behind the scenes that truly makes a difference.”
In your 26 years of running Skin & Body International, how have you seen the beauty industry evolve, and what innovations or trends are you most excited about for the future?
“There has been a remarkable evolution in the beauty industry. Three decades ago, our range of beauty tools was quite limited. Today however, the industry boasts an extensive array of non-invasive aesthetic devices, including those utilising light, energy, plasma, and cautery used by professionally qualified therapists. Technology has evolved at such a rapid rate, and has significantly enhanced the efficacy of skin and body treatments, achieving remarkable results in a fraction of the time previously required.
Furthermore, the rapid progression of research and development in skincare technologies has led to more efficient and predictable outcomes during skin treatments. Notably too, male grooming services were once an underdeveloped sector, has also shown substantial growth and demand.
Looking to the future, I am particularly excited about the trend of “Beauty from within.” This emerging focus on internal health promises to revolutionise the industry with a variety of organic healthcare packages that address the skin’s structural changes. The integration of advanced digital scanning and predictive AI will enable a more comprehensive, holistic approach to skin health. This represents a groundbreaking fusion of beauty and holistic healthcare, poised to redefine our understanding and practice of skin wellness.
With the focus on internal health, the trend of beauty from within will explode into a variety of organic healthcare packages designed to focus on the skin’s structural changes; utilizing more advanced digital scanning and predictive AI to generate a holistic skin-health approach. This is by far the greatest marriage between beauty and holistic healthcare.”
Your dedication to education and professional development is evident from your numerous awards and certifications. How do you stay ahead in a field that constantly changes, and what advice would you give to aspiring professionals?
“Maximising latent talent is essential for success in any profession. As someone with a strong passion for learning and an intrinsic drive to excel, I am constantly seeking to enhance existing methods, explore and introduce innovative techniques, and add greater value to the treatments we provide.
Staying ahead in a rapidly evolving field requires vigilance in monitoring emerging trends and adapting strategies to incorporate the latest advancements within our practice.
For aspiring professionals, my advice is to follow your passion and pursue it with excellence. Passion, coupled with a commitment to continuous improvement, will not only enhance your skills but also inspire those around you, ultimately leading to greater success in your career. Maintain a prudent balance between income and expenditures while generously contributing to charitable causes and donations for those in need within your community. Aim to make a meaning impact on the lives of others.”
How do you balance the technical and business aspects of your role, and what role do you believe personal passion and continuous learning play in achieving long-term success in the health and beauty and industry?
“Balancing the technical and business aspects of my role as an entrepreneur requires a multifaceted approach. As an entrepreneur, one inevitably juggles various responsibilities, necessitating a continuous acquisition of new skills and knowledge. Managing both people and operations simultaneously demands a proactive approach to learning and professional development.
A crucial aspect of effectively balancing these roles is recognizing the importance of self-efficacy and confidence. Believing in one's ability to manage and lead is essential for navigating the complexities of running a business.
In the health and beauty industry, there are abundant opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth. The industry offers a diverse range of courses, online webinars, and personalized brand training that support skill enhancement and knowledge expansion. Engaging in these educational resources helps in refining our services and adapting to evolving client needs.
Furthermore, personal passion plays a pivotal role in achieving long-term success. A deep-seated enthusiasm for one’s career fuels the drive to improve continuously and exceed previous achievements. This passion, combined with a commitment to ongoing education, creates a strong foundation for sustained success and innovation in the industry.
For young women aspiring to leadership roles, what advice would you give based on your own experiences? Are there specific strategies or mindsets you believe are crucial for success in leadership?
“Of foremost importance is to acquire a good education through a recognised institute which will catapult you in the direction you are headed. An aspiring young leader has to develop a growth mindset to believe in their abilities and intelligence; which are developed through hard work, dedication and persistence.
Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and persist in the face of obstacles and setbacks. Learn from criticism and feedback; and build a secure network to foster good business and personal relationships”
