In this episode of The Sub-Saharan Beauty podcast, we have Christina Funke Tegbe, the founder of 54 Thrones, a clean beauty brand handcrafted to celebrate the richness, diversity, and cultures of the African continent and its people. 

We talk about Christina’s childhood and the influences that shaped her path to beauty and entrepreneurship. She shares her mission to change how people think of Africa through her luxury botanical skincare line and her desire to leave a lasting impact in the beauty industry by making space and platforms for those coming behind her!

Episode Timeline: 

• [3:58] Christine describes her curious and creative childhood and her parents’ encouragement. 
• [7:12] The influence of her parents on her life and choices, plus the role models that inspired her path
• [11:44] She shares the key transition of her life when she quit her job and moved to Nigeria. 
• [16:38] How getting higher education sharpened her problem-solving skills and learned to work with people.
• [20:47] The experiences of beauty and African culture inspired Christine to start 54 Thrones. 
• [27:29] She explains the rewarding aspect of building a brand that helps people connect with Africa. 
• [31:12] The strategic approach she used to select retailers for 54 Thrones and how they benefit her brand. 
• [35:51] The main challenges that 54 Thrones is experiencing as a small brand in expanding. 
• [36:18] Christina’s anticipation of the evolution of African beauty beyond body butter. 
• [38:36] The importance of empathy and compassion with each other and our criticism. 
• [41:53] Christina on why she wants her legacy to be about paving the way for others in the beauty industry.