Hello, I'm Selorm Mensah, Manufacturing, Research and Development and Logistics intern at Afrocenchix.
My role entails assisting with manufacturing of pre-existing products, conducting research and developing new products due to be launched. I am also assisting with logistics to assist with making Afrocenchix a -one-stop-shop for all afro, coily and curly hair.
Tell us about yourself.
I am Ghanaian, was born there and lived there for 10 years before migrating to London. For as long as I could remember, my hair was always relaxed as it was easier to manage. My family would describe my hair as a lions mane and I would eventually get my hair buzzed when I moved to a new primary school as long hair was a 'distraction'.
Describe any professional designations and industry-related accomplishments.
I currently have a masters of pharmacy, and was a trained pharmacist who wanted to make the medical sector more accessible to black women in particularly, and wanted to move into the pharmaceutical industry or research as I wanted to change the world for women.
I worked on a proof of concept for a topical anti-fungal impregnated with zinc with the University of Hertfordshire, which was successful and received funding. During my final year, I worked on thermogels (materials that thicken when exposed to heat) for intravaginal drug delivery. However, I decided to leave it all behind and do something that makes me happy – working directly within a black owned business like Afrocenchix.
What are your hobbies?
In my spare time I delve into my creative side, baking, DIY, shooting fashion and beauty content and being a plant mum to my 20+ plant babies. I'm a big social media consumer, TikTok being a particular favourite of mine; and discussing social issues. I also love visiting galleries and museums!
What's your favourite quote?
"I am my own muse, the subject I know best. The subject I want to know better." by Oroma Elewa / 'Material girls' Saucy Santana.
Tell us what motivates you to do what you do here?
I love what Afrocenchix stands for, as a team and a company! Striving for safe, effective and natural hair care which is backed by science. I am so proud to be a part of a movement that prioritises the needs of our community. Since starting, as junior manufacturing assistant, my role has developed to include research and development, and logistics. I am excited to continue to see growth within myself and the company!
What's your favourite Afrocenchix product and why?
The Wash Day Set! As a 4C babe, any product that helps with detangling is a holy grail to me, and thankfully most of Afrocenchix products do that by keeping my hair in its best healthiest state. If I HAVE to choose one product, it'd be between Smooth or Swirl. Smooth is incredibly moisturising and works great for my twists and Swirl has amazing slip and makes detangling and quick and easy process.
P.S. We're crowdfunding on Seedrs!
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