Amara Okoli-Tasie has developed a product that effectively nurtures African natural hair. The idea popped up when she first noticed the limitations of commercial hair care products when her young daughter experienced persistent skin and scalp issues.
Determined to find a solution, she experimented with natural ingredients like Shea Butter and Coconut Oil, eventually creating a remedy that restored her daughter’s hair and skin health. Encouraged by this success, she began researching the benefits of plant-based ingredients, setting the foundation for Mara Cruiz Organics, a trusted name in natural hair care.
Starting from her kitchen, Tasie’s dedication to crafting safe and effective hair care solutions turned a small idea into a thriving business. Mara Cruiz Organics now operates out of a fully equipped factory, offering products enriched with plant-based butter, oils, and botanical extracts. Families looking for healthier alternatives to chemical-based products have embraced the brand, sharing stories of how its shampoos and conditioners have eased scalp irritations and improved overall hair health.
“Prior to using Mara Cruiz, my daughter had transitioned twice, but I couldn’t manage the hair, and I ended up texturising it. But immediately I started using my Mara Cruiz kids range for her, it was very easy for me to manage the hair, and I knew that she would be a naturalist soonest. She now has healthy natural hair that is growing so fast,” says an Abuja-based mom.
Okoli-Tasie’s passion for her work extends beyond creating quality products. To celebrate seven years of Mara Cruiz Organics, she launched an initiative to empower 1,000 women through entrepreneurship. Participants in the programme received training in business and marketing skills, along with hair care education. Additionally, each woman was given N50,000 worth of products to kickstart their ventures.
“We created this initiative to help women become entrepreneurs, earn profits, and create an impact in their communities,” Amara Okoli-Tasie reflects.
Her practical approach to business resonates with many. She often advises aspiring entrepreneurs to begin with the resources they have, stressing that care planning can achieve remarkable results.
Mara Cruiz Organics has grown to include over 100 partners in 20 states, a feat achieved without external funding.
Tasie’s ability to build sustainable growth from modest beginnings showcases her resourcefulness. Her early ventures, such as selling cupcakes and managing a mobile boutique during university, taught her valuable lessons in persistence and adaptability.
By combining her passion for natural hair care with a deep commitment to community development, Okoli-Tasie has built a brand that uplifts lives. While families are discovering healthier alternatives for hair care, more women are breaking barriers and thriving as entrepreneurs. Today, Mara Cruiz Organics is more than a successful business; it is a platform that fosters financial independence for women and promotes healthier lifestyles for families.
Tasie’s dedication to improving hair care and empowering women has sparked lasting change, opening doors for others to succeed and make a difference. Her work continues to inspire, proving that with determination and vision, small actions can lead to transformative results.
