Meet the Absa Small Business Friday featured business of the week – Comfort Care Clinic.
Kegomoditswe Comfort Mdlalani’s journey from a structured 9-to-5 job to the dynamic world of entrepreneurship tells a powerful story of courage, growth, and faith in oneself. As the founder of Comfort Care Clinic, a beauty and wellness center offering essential primary health services and advanced beauty treatments, Kegomoditswe has transformed her passion for health and wellness into a thriving business that reaches clients across South Africa.
A unique approach to wellness and beauty
Comfort Care Clinic provides a unique blend of healthcare and beauty services, from family planning to IV drips and skin treatments, carefully tailored to fit clients’ needs. They offer critical screenings, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose, along with pap smears, making quality healthcare more accessible and preventative. In addition to in-clinic services, Comfort Care Clinic also provides mobile services, bringing wellness directly to clients’ homes for added convenience.
“Our aim is to support and empower our clients to lead healthier lives,” Comfort explains, highlighting how the clinic goes beyond beauty to enhance overall wellness. This approach allows them to connect with clients meaningfully, helping them feel their best from the inside out.
From nurse to “nursepreneur”
Kegomoditswe journey began with a challenging decision to leave a steady job for the unknown world of entrepreneurship. She felt stagnant in her previous role and longed for a more fulfilling career path that would enable her to grow personally and professionally. Inspired by this desire for change, Comfort took a leap of faith, embracing the challenges of becoming a “nursepreneur.”
The transition was anything but easy. “Going to nursing school taught me the technical side of healthcare, but running a business was entirely new territory,” Comfort shares. Learning the ins and outs of entrepreneurship stretched her abilities and tested her resolve. Yet, each challenge and lesson became a stepping stone, pushing her closer to her vision of running a business where she could directly impact her community.
Comfort’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and consistency. She acknowledges that while she’s not yet where she wants to be, she’s confident in the process and motivated by the possibility of inspiring other nurses to explore similar paths.
Embracing the highs and lows of entrepreneurship
Kegomoditswe’s path hasn’t been without its struggles. The shift from a regular paycheck to the uncertain income of a new business was daunting. There were moments of doubt and questioning, but Kegomoditswe found support through her mentors, who offered guidance and perspective.
“Entrepreneurship can swallow you whole,” she notes, “especially at the start, but mentors helped me stay focused and resilient.”
Her perseverance paid off, and she began to see growth in her client base and in her own personal development as a business owner. Kegomoditswe appreciates the journey and the divine grace she feels has guided her through each challenge.
Overcoming challenges and finding success in social media
One of Kegomoditswe’s early challenges was attracting clients. Despite her services’ value, there were days when no one showed up, a situation she recalls as disheartening but motivating. Recognizing the potential of social media, Kegomoditswe dove into learning digital marketing, signing up for masterclasses and exploring the world of online advertising. Her efforts paid off, and she saw firsthand the incredible power of social media to connect with clients and build a brand.
“I conquered the challenge by embracing social media as a tool for growth,” she says. Today, Comfort Care Clinic has a growing client base, thanks to Kegomoditswe’s determination and adaptability in learning new skills to benefit her business.
Celebrating milestones and encouraging aspiration
For Kegomoditswe, her biggest achievement lies not in revenue or recognition but in the courage to start. Turning a dream into reality takes bravery, especially when the outcome is uncertain.
“Starting is not easy,” she emphasises, “but you can’t wait for perfect conditions. I started with what I had and figured out the rest as I progressed.”
Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: have faith, take that first step, and let the process unfold.
Why South Africa needs small businesses
Kegomoditswe passionately advocates for the importance of supporting small businesses in South Africa. She believes that a strong small business sector not only boosts the economy but also empowers individuals and communities, fostering a sense of pride and resilience.
“Supporting local businesses encourages others to start their own, building a network of proudly South African products and services that drive community growth.”
Comfort Mdlalani’s journey exemplifies the strength, courage, and persistence required to transition from a traditional career to entrepreneurship. Through Comfort Care Clinic, she is redefining what it means to care for one’s health and wellness, blending her skills as a nurse with her vision as an entrepreneur.