MPC

In commemoration of International Women's Day 2026, we're shining a Spotlight on some Cameroonian Women making strides in Empowering other Women and Girls.

Their Passion, Motivation and Stories are an Inspiration for a better society, where Women thrive against all odds.

In the Beauty Industry in Cameroon, Myra Fombe of LoR'Terr Optionsl has left her mark in the Natural Hair sector.

This is her Story:

A PERSONAL STRUGGLE SPARKS A SOLUTION

Fombe’s journey into natural hair care began during one of the most difficult moments of her life. She recalls experiencing severe hair loss that left patches across her scalp.

After struggling with persistent hair loss and feeling hopeless, she sought medical advice and was relieved to learn she had no underlying illness. Her hair problems were largely caused by stress and the frequent use of chemical relaxers.

Determined to find a solution, she began researching natural hair care methods. Through hours of study and experimentation, she eventually mastered a technique known as finger curls, which allowed her hair to look healthy and well-styled without the use of chemicals.

“I started by styling my friends and church members free of charge,” Fombe recalls.
“Just to see if they could appreciate it. It was incredible to watch how something so simple could give women confidence and inspire them to embrace their natural hair.”

FROM SITTING ROOM EXPERIMENT TO THRIVING SALON

What began as a small experiment soon grew into something bigger. Fombe initially styled hair for friends and acquaintances in her sitting room, gradually building a loyal clientele.

In 2014, LoR’Terr Options officially opened its doors in Makepe, Douala. Reflecting on the early days of the business, Fombe says the venture became closely tied to her personal sense of purpose.

“While caring for my own hair, I sought guidance on my purpose in life,” she explains.

“I realized that I was passionate about beauty, and helping women embrace and maintain natural hair became the centre of my purpose.”

Today, LoR’Terr Options, with branches in Yaounde and Douala, attracts clients from different parts of Cameroon and beyond, many of whom seek specialized care for their natural hair.

PROMOTING PRIDE IN NATURAL HAIR

Beyond the salon walls, Fombe and her team are actively working to change perceptions about natural hair.

She also founded the Kinky Soul Caravan, a movement that celebrates Afro hair on the streets of Douala. The caravan included trade fairs, carnivals, and competitions.

“It was a form of sensitization campaign, so women came up with remarkable afro hairstyles because they wanted to stand out. People were intrigued when we walked around Douala.”

Though COVID-19 paused the initiative, Fombe remains committed to education and empowerment, recognizing the importance of both health and pride in natural hair.

TRAINING AND EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN

A central part of Fombe`s mission is empowering young women through skills training.

Since the creation of LoR’Terr Options, she has trained more than 100 young women free of charge, many of whom have gone on to establish themselves as natural hair specialists across Cameroon.

She sees this effort as a personal contribution to empowering girls, particularly those who may not have access to formal education or professional training opportunities.

To her, the goal goes beyond running a successful business; it is about creating opportunities for others.

BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY AND CHALLENGES

“I don’t believe in taking loans,” she explains. “I go slowly, save money, and plan.”

Her main challenge has been human resources. Natural hair salons require extensive training; stylists cannot simply be hired off the street.

Fombe hopes to open a vocational training centre in the near future. She also has plans to expand to all regions in Cameroon, and eventually beyond, while maintaining quality and empowering women along the way.

ADVICE TO ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS

Fombe emphasizes purpose over profit.

“Your purpose is what you do, even if you’re not paid. If it’s your purpose, when things get rough, you won’t abandon it, and money will always come.”

Her advice is simple: find your passion, commit to it, and the rest will fall into place.

In this Edition of our Newsletter, we're featuring a Young Cameroonian who, in her 30's, is helping other young people change their perceptions about Elections in Cameroon and become active participants of the process as their civic right.

Ndi Nancy Saiboh shares her leadership experience as a Young woman, and how she navigates through the challenges faced.

Read More via the Link:
Amplifying Youth Voices: Inside the Work of a Young Cameroonian Woman Advancing Civic Participation
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/amplifying-youth-voices-inside-work-young-cameroonian-01bne?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android&utm_campaign=share_via

Amplifying Youth Voices: Inside the Work of a Young Cameroonian Woman Advancing Civic Participation By Christelle Nfor Mugha Beyond the titles and organizational roles, Saibou describes herself simply as “a daughter, a sister, a friend” and someone who believes deeply in dignity. A learner by nature, she asks questions, observes patterns and constantly tries to understand why systems function ...