By Nosipho Mabuza (Intern)
MBABANE– Braids, books and big dreams!
When you hear the name Mellow in Bhunya, it’s more than just a nickname—it’s a brand, a vibe, and a whole hairstyle movement.
At just 21 , Melokuhle Dlamini is the young hairdresser making serious waves in her hometown of LaMgabhi. From casual cornrows in high school to eye-popping braids that have clients queuing on weekends, Mellow is proving that talent, hustle, and a little edge go a long way.
“I started doing hair back in 2018 when I was in Form 2,” she says. “It was just for fun, practicing on friends and family. But the more I did it, the more I realised—I really loved it.”
Love quickly turned into a full-blown hustle. These days, Mellow’s calendar is stacked, her scissors stay sharp, and her clients keep coming back for the magic touch.
Forget fancy hair schools—Mellow’s secret weapon is good old YouTube, real-world practice, and a creative eye.“I taught myself through watching tutorials and observing other stylists,” she explains. “Now braids and natural styles are my favourite—they let me be creative and give each client something different.” From box braids to blowouts, she’s mastered the art of turning heads, one twist at a time.
Before graduating, Mellow juggled school and salon life like a boss. Picture this: back-to-back classes, then braiding into the night. “It wasn’t easy,” she says, “but I made a schedule and stuck to it. I had to stay organised to keep up.”
Of course people doubted her. She was labelled; too young, too short, too new. But she didn’t let that stop her. “I’ve had to prove myself a lot. But I’ve learned I’m disciplined, creative and tough.”
Her client list is packed. Her marketing strategy-All vibes and word-of-mouth. Most of her clients discover her via WhatsApp status updates and referrals.
“I mostly work with students and young professionals looking for affordable, stylish hair,” she says. “If it’s more convenient for them, I travel to their place.”
From her home setup to house calls, Mellow is making it work—and making it work it.
She’s not stopping anytime soon. Mellow’s got big plans: get certified, open a salon, mentor upcoming stylists, and launch her very own hair brand.
“Hairdressing lets me express myself and help people feel confident. Every day I get to create, grow and build something I’m proud of.”
Even while planning her return to school, her scissors aren’t going anywhere.
“I’ll keep working on weekends and during school breaks. It’s my passion—it keeps me going.”
Mellow’s Message to the Youth: “Start small. Be consistent. Don’t wait to be perfect—just start. It’s not always easy, but it teaches you independence and responsibility early on.”
To connect with Mellow:
Facebook: Melo Camp
Instagram: Mellow
WhatsApp: 7812 0632
Call: 7957 3787 / 7823 1983.
