Rising Together: Empowering Women in Business Across Northern Ireland and Beyond

Monday 2 June 2025

Building a legacy of mentorship, representation and sustainable success for women in business, by Sibongile Swan Mude.

Born in Zimbabwe and proudly raised in Belfast, I’ve always been driven by a desire to lead, innovate, and empower others. From starting my first job at 16 to rising through the ranks from PA to Director, my journey has been defined by resilience and a deep commitment to personal and professional growth.

In 2018, after working in pharmaceutical advertising, I recognised a powerful gap in the skincare industry — a lack of effective, long-lasting products that truly nourish and protect the skin beyond the treatment phase. This inspired me to create Skincare by Sacha, a brand built on dermatological insight and inclusive formulation.

Today, Skincare by Sacha is proudly trading across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and the UK, with a four-step skincare system that has delivered real results for thousands of customers. Our Hydrating and Vitamin E Face Cream and Serum are now ranked among the top 5 over-the-counter skincare products in Ireland.

In 2024, we achieved strong growth with over 23,000 units sold across retail and online channels, and a dedicated team of six committed staff. I’m proud to be in talks with Irish distribution partners as we prepare to scale further.

My vision is to build a skincare company that stands for integrity, inclusivity, and long-term skin health — while creating space for more women-led businesses to thrive in the beauty and wellness sectors. I envision a future where women in Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the UK feel empowered to take up space, lead with confidence, and build sustainable legacies.

As a woman in business, I am passionate about mentoring other aspiring entrepreneurs and showcasing what’s possible when we invest in our purpose. I believe in creating opportunities for others to rise — especially in spaces where they’ve historically been underrepresented.

And as a woman of colour, I am especially committed to encouraging and supporting more women of colour to see themselves reflected in organisations like Women in Business NI. Our voices, experiences, and leadership are essential to shaping a more inclusive and representative business landscape.

Through my work and leadership, I strive to contribute to a thriving, inclusive economy across NI, Ireland, and the UK — one that champions innovation, sustainability, and the power of women-led business.

Monday 2 June 2025