We celebrate the remarkable journey of vivacious Cape Town TikTok star and afro haircare entrepreneur, Kayla Kim Kay.
In the world of social media, where creators rise and fall like shooting stars, one name has emerged to become a radiant constellation in her own right – Kayla Kim Kay. The spunky Cape Town-based TikToker and visionary entrepreneur behind Afro Curl has captured hearts and empowered communities, all while embracing her natural roots.
TikTok trailblazer
With limited funds and very few resources, Kayla was just a coloured girl with big dreams. Having graduated with a degree in fashion design from CPUT and worked as a fashion buyer. When Covid hit in 2020, Kayla knew she wanted to action one of her biggest dreams: to start her own haircare brand.
“I started creating content on all platforms and people took a liking to it, as most of us were plugged in to online entertainment [during the pandemic]. I created all sorts of content – as a creator I have never boxed myself,” she says.
The young entrepreneur’s journey to stardom began on TikTok, where her relatable and heartfelt content quickly resonated with viewers across the country, and then worldwide. Through her captivating videos, she offers a glimpse into her daily life, sharing beauty tips, natural haircare routines and pearls of wisdom that have inspired her loyal audience.
Her authenticity and unapologetic celebration of afro hair have sparked a movement, encouraging others to embrace their unique beauty.
@kaylakimkay #kaylakimkay #kaylakimkayvlogs ♬ original sound – kaylakimkay
The power of representation
While the world of beauty and haircare often upholds Eurocentric standards, Kayla Kim Kay is challenging the status quo. Her Afro Curl brand isn’t just a business; it’s a mission. With a range of products designed for afro-textured hair, Kayla is advocating for diverse representation in the beauty industry.
The fact that I can be a role model to so many young girls keeps me pushing.
She’s providing solutions for people who have long felt marginalised and underserved by mainstream beauty products. “I never thought I’d say this, but I’m the representation I lacked growing up,” she says. “The fact that I can be a role model to so many young girls keeps me pushing. Growing up, there were very few coloured people in the space I’d hope to see myself in someday. Representation is so important. As a creator I have the opportunity to make a positive impact with both my content and my business.”
“I love that my heritage is one that is derived from many and is most diverse. More than anything, I hope to leave behind an impactful story, one that many can be inspired by. A story that gives people hope despite their financial disadvantages.”
Behind the brand
There are very few creators who have monetised TikTok. It’s all fun and games to create content, but from a career standpoint you have to find ways to make money too, says Kayla. “Creating and building a brand, and utilising the platform, is important for me. What’s most exciting is that Afrocurl is one of few haircare brands in South Africa utilising social media to build brand identity. And I love that my brand has brought people together to accept their hair and break beauty standards.”
In the last two years, Afro Curl has become more than just a brand; it’s a beacon of hope. Kayla’s commitment to producing high-quality, natural haircare products is a testament to her dedication to the afro-textured hair community. Her deep understanding of the unique needs of this hair type has led to a range of products that nourish, hydrate and celebrate curls, kinks and coils.
When it comes to wearing her own crown with pride, though, Kayla absolutely loves being a blonde, which means bleaching her ’fro quite often. “When I created my range, I wanted to create something that would leave have my hair looking and feeling healthier. Afrocurl does that”
“I go from protective styles – rocking braids – and wigs to my afro style, of course, and through it all I keep my hair clean and healthy.”
Kayla recommends her top eight starter products as the ones that she herself couldn’t live without. “When I launched my brand, I wanted to incorporate a variety of nourishing hair products, so customers would have access to my routine.” This includes a hydrating shampoo, clarifying shampoo, leave-in conditioner, hair growth oil, braids and loc spray, a curl activator gel and activator crème, and a strengthen and restore masque.
Curly hair, don’t care!
With the summer season in full swing, Kayla reveals that December is always the busiest time of the year for her business, but she still makes time to have fun and turn up!
“December means silly season, but it’s the biggest trade season too. My summer will be spent working, growing Afrocurl, employing a few casual team members who are wanting to earn something extra. Outside of this, December is family time, for sure. I will definitely be travelling once the silly season is over, though.”
Her story and work ethic are an inspiration. From having big dreams to becoming a beloved hair influencer and successful entrepreneur is a testament to the power of passion, resilience and authenticity. She proves that success knows no boundaries when you’re passionate about your craft and dedicated to making a difference.
“If you want to be someone really special, be yourself,” she advises young, aspiring entrepreneurs. “There’s no such thing as ‘the market is over-saturated’. There’s space and a target market for all, regardless of your industry. Start with what you have. You will grow into the success you desire, and more equipment and capital will come along with all your hard work and perseverance.”
More than a TikToker and entrepreneur, Kayla is a symbol of empowerment, self-love and representation. She’s not just selling products; she’s selling a revolution – one that invites us all to embrace our natural selves.
Get to know Kayla
Full name: Kayla Kim Meiring
Birthday: 5 October 1992
Age: 31
Current location: Cape Town
Star sign: Libra
Quick Q&A
Favourite colour: Pink
Best hair hack:
If you want to freshen up your hair like its just been washed, spray on some water, apply Afrocurl Curl Activator Cream and your curls will be more defined.
Good hair day song: ‘Don’t Touch My Hair’ by Solange Knowles
Go-to fashion staple: I love me a denim jacket
Describe yourself in one word: Ambitious
Words By: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photography: Zhann Solomons
