Durban entrepreneur shares how she's building an empire
AT just 22 years of age Cheyenne Gooderson of uMhlanga is redefining what it means to be a young entrepreneur in SA.
As the country celebrates Youth Month this June, her story is one of bold ideas, resilience, and a fearless desire to do things differently.
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Gooderson is a business partner in three ventures: Vibe and Thrive, a wellness event concept; NüDrip, an IV health and wellness lab; and Trimtreats, a line of healthy condiments.
Another business, still under wraps, is on the way. Each initiative is tied to her passions: health, social media, fashion, and above all, independence.
'I always knew I didn't want to work for someone else. I wanted to create something of my own,' she said.
Her late grandfather, an entrepreneur himself, was a major influence. His passing marked a turning point.
'I realised studying was something I was doing for him, not myself. Now I want to make him proud by building something real, something mine,' she said.
The journey hasn't been without challenges. The biggest hurdle for Gooderson has been money – she has been trying to execute big ideas with small budgets.
From planning wellness events to launching products, every step has required grit and creativity.
'Execution is the hardest part. From ticket sales to safety logistics, every detail matters.'
@caxtonlocalmedia
Each June, South Africa commemorates YouthMonth in honour of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, when brave students stood against an oppressive education system. Their legacy lives on, reminding the nation of the power of young voices. As we reflect on their sacrifice, #Youth Month 2025 also calls on today's youth to lead the way toward a more just and inclusive future. This week we feature Cheyenne Gooderson whose ultimate aim is to create something of her own. YouthDay YouthDaySouthAfrica #June16 #sowetouprising
♬ original sound – caxtonlocalmedia – caxtonlocalmedia
What sets Gooderson apart is her ability to spot what's missing.
'A lot of my ideas come from things I wish existed. If I want it, someone else probably does too,' she said.
That insight, coupled with her ambition and drive, fuels her work ethic. She's also candid about the pressure young people face.
'Everyone around me was going to university. I felt like I missed out. But I've come to realise that it's okay to take time to figure things out. We have all the time in the world,' she reflected.
Her message to the youth is: Don't fear failure.
'We've all read about people who failed many times before they made it. Just start, that's the hardest part. Youth is not a barrier, it's a launching pad,' she added.
Besides building an empire, Gooderson also dreams of becoming Miss SA.
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