Sorisha Naidoo

Sorisha Naidoo is the owner of Umhlanga Laser and Aesthetic Spa, as well as a frequency healing room. “I’m also involved in export and import,” she said, describing her diverse professional pursuits. Reflecting on her early years, Sorisha recalled, “I studied journalism at Rhodes University a long time ago, which sparked my interest in television and radio. But somehow, I found myself gravitating towards the beauty industry, opening salons, and importing products, it just happened naturally.”

She explained that her journey in the beauty industry began 16 years ago when she recognised a gap in the market. “I’ve never stopped since then, and it remains my passion. It’s funny how you study one thing, but your flair for something else takes charge.”

The transition into beauty came naturally during her time in radio and acting. “After working at a local radio station in KwaZulu-Natal, I moved to a Johannesburg radio station and dipped into acting. As an actress, I realised there was a constant need to look my best, which sparked an interest in anti-ageing and skincare,” she said. “I started exploring natural treatments and was drawn into the beauty industry.”

Sorisha described her current dream as championing alternative healing through her frequency healing technology. “I want to establish this alternative healing approach in South Africa, allowing people to heal without the involvement of too many pharmaceutical companies,” she asserted. “It’s about offering a different way for people to look after themselves.”

First Role Models
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial drive, Sorisha credited her family’s influence. “My parents were businesspeople and my first role models. I worked in their store from a young age, learning the value of independence,” she said. “Even though I worked in corporate for a while, I always aspired to be my own boss and not work nine to five.”

She also credited her husband, Vivian Reddy, as a significant source of inspiration. “His work ethic is exceptional, and he has always encouraged me to push myself, to never say no, and to keep improving. He inspires me to be my best,” Sorisha revealed.

Her dedication to excellence is evident in her approach to managing her business. “I pay attention to every detail in my spa, from the way it smells when you walk in, down to the minutest detail in the treatment room,” she explained. “I believe you’re only as strong as your last treatment, so I ensure that every client’s experience is memorable from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. For me that’s an important strategy.”

When asked about her achievements, Sorisha high- lighted a few key moments. “Earning my journalism degree was a big accomplishment for me. I also took part in Miss India South Africa about 24 years ago, which was quite a surprise because I never saw myself as a pageant type,” she said. “Winning that competition, as a self-described tomboy, was a shocker for me.” However, Sorisha regards her role as a mother as her greatest achievement. “It might sound crazy, but being a mom and raising my kids is the most fulfilling job I’ve ever had,” she stated. “Watching them grow, develop their own interests, and embark on different career paths has been an epic journey.”

Sorisha’s compassion extends beyond her business ventures to charity, especially animal welfare. “I’m a big supporter of the SPCA and Pug Rescue,” she said. “I currently have five pugs, and they are formidable pets. Many people adopt animals for the good times but aren’t prepared for the full journey, including the difficult moments when they get older.”

Importance of Kindness
Navigating the public eye, Sorisha acknowledged, comes with its challenges. “Being in the industry means facing scrutiny and criticism as well as backlash for certain judgements or opinions,” she said. “I’ve found that I’ve needed to have a very thick skin over the years to understand that everyone has a right to an opinion and for me to not get entangled. Importantly, nobody’s opinion of you matters except your own.”

Offering advice to young women, Sorisha emphasised the importance of kindness. “In today’s age of social media, kindness is often undervalued,” she observed. “The essence of being a woman is humility and kindness, and if you can spread that in the world, we’d have fewer problems than we do have right now.”

Looking ahead, Sorisha’s focus is on continual growth. “I’m constantly working on being a better mum, especially as my children grow into adulthood,” she said. “I want to ensure they have good values when they step out into the world. Being a better mother, sister, daughter, and businesswoman is an ongoing challenge, but one I welcome.”

She also acknowledged that juggling multiple responsibilities can lead to burnout. “Women often spread themselves too thin, trying to keep up in a male- dominated world,” she noted. “It’s essential to take breaks, find balance, and stay true to yourself.”

Her participation in “The Real Housewives of Durban” has been an unexpected source of growth. “We’re about to start our fifth season, and navigating the dynamics of the show is always interesting,” she explained. “The reason I keep going back is that I want to find out how you get to a balance when you’re in a contentious situation and be able to come out the other side unscathed. It’s a mental challenge that keeps me on my toes and helps me release pent-up emotions.”

For Sorisha, balance is achieved through yoga, high- intensity training, and quality time with her family and pets. “I’m passionate about yoga and exercise; it’s my release,” she said. “And of course, lots of green tea — it’s my go-to for calming down.”
Sorisha Naidoo’s journey is one of continuous evolution and an unwavering pursuit of her passions. “I don’t think there’s a limit to what we can achieve,” she concluded. “Dreams evolve, and I’m always ready for the next one.”