Hannah Nangula, a name synonymous with innovation and excellence in Namibia’s beauty industry, has carved a remarkable path over the past decade and a half. From humble beginnings as a makeup artist to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur and mentor, Nangula’s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance and the transformative power of makeup.

Born in northern Namibia and raised in Walvis Bay, Nangula’s journey in the beauty world began with a detour. Initially studying fashion design at the College of the Arts (Cota), she discovered her true calling in makeup artistry. “As a designer, you need to be able to dress a model, take photos and do the makeup,” she recalls, adding how her love for makeup eventually overshadowed her passion for fashion.

After graduating in 2011, Nangula identified a gap in the market for television makeup and approached the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC). Her talent and determination landed her a role as an on-set makeup artist, marking the start of her professional career.

Nangula’s understanding of Namibian skin tones and the country’s harsh climate inspired her to create beauty products tailored to local needs. In 2019, she launched her own cosmetics line, featuring eight shades of full-coverage cream foundation and mink lashes.

“My lineup of eight shades was made with Namibian weather and African skin in mind,” she explained, emphasizing inclusivity and quality.

Her foundation, designed to withstand Namibia’s hot and dry climate quickly gained popularity. The accompanying mink lashes, available in natural and dramatic styles, became a staple for makeup enthusiasts. Nangula’s products not only catered to Namibian women, but also attracted international attention, with orders from Zambia, South Africa and Botswana.

By 2021, Nangula had expanded her brand, HN Skin, to include skincare products like Vitamin C Serum and Acne Removal Cure Gel, as well as eye shadow palettes such as Fabueyes and Eye Obsession. This expansion reflected her commitment to addressing diverse beauty needs and her ambition to compete with established international brands.

Beyond her entrepreneurial success, Nangula is a passionate advocate for empowering others in the beauty industry. She has trained more than 4,000 aspiring makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts by hosting beauty masterclasses across Namibia, with many of whom have gone on to build sustainable careers.

Among other events, Nangula is planning the inaugural Beauty Expo Namibia – a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and network with industry professionals, as well as the ‘Sip, Cleanse, Glam and Spritz’ glamour party that is scheduled to take place from March to May in towns including Walvis Bay, Ongwediva, Otjiwarongo, Windhoek, Swakopmund, Rundu and Grootfontein.

The expo, themed ‘Passion, Innovation and Empowerment,’ intends to combat unemployment and inspire young Namibians to pursue careers in cosmetology.

Nangula’s journey is not just about makeup, it is about creating opportunities, celebrating diversity and enhancing confidence. Her work with celebrities like Dillish Mathews and South Africa’s Minnie Dlamini, as well as her contributions to events like the Namibia Annual Music Awards (NAMAs), have solidified her reputation as one of Namibia’s top makeup artists.

Today, Nangula continues to innovate and inspire, after launching a fragrance line in January 2025. The Hannah Nangula Luxury Perfume line features two uniquely blended scents – the Welwitschia and Savanna Ouds. Her story is a reminder that with hard work, creativity and a commitment to one’s goals and dreams, it is possible to turn a passion into a legacy.

As she often says, “The beauty industry is a confidence booster, especially for women. It is a mechanism that enhances one’s features when applied”. Hannah Nangula’s journey seems to be far from over. With plans to further diversify her business and explore new opportunities, she remains a beacon of inspiration in Namibia’s beauty industry and beyond.