On March 8, as the world marked International Women’s Day, Ugandan skincare brand Bellazuri – Roots of Beauty hosted a women’s empowerment gathering at its head offices in Butabika.
Held under the theme “For the Woman Who Conquers Every Day,” the afternoon event brought together women from diverse professional and personal backgrounds for conversation, networking and reflection on the experiences shaping women’s lives across Africa.
Rather than a formal conference, the gathering leaned toward open dialogue. Participants discussed issues ranging from confidence and self-image to the evolving role of African women in the beauty industry. Conversations also highlighted the quiet, everyday achievements that often go unnoticed, from building careers and businesses to balancing family and personal ambitions.
The event also offered insight into how local beauty brands are positioning themselves in an industry historically dominated by global players. Bellazuri – Roots of Beauty, which develops skincare products formulated specifically for African skin, used the occasion to highlight its focus on representation and locally informed beauty solutions.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director Patricia Tino said the company wanted the gathering to feel less like a brand showcase and more like a space for women to share experiences.
“International Women’s Day is a moment to recognize the resilience and determination women show every day,” she said. “For us, it’s also an opportunity to celebrate the many ways African women continue to lead, create and push forward despite challenges.”
Guests were also taken on a tour of the company’s premises, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how the brand develops and produces its skincare products in Uganda.
In recent years, locally developed beauty brands across Africa have gained visibility as more consumers seek products suited to their skin types and climates. Events such as this reflect a broader shift in the industry toward conversations about representation, identity and self-acceptance.
For many of the women in attendance, the afternoon served as a reminder that ideas of beauty are evolving, and that African women are increasingly defining beauty on their own terms.
