Israella Kafui Mansu Biography: Personal Life, Age, Awards, Net Worth, Career, Education

Israella Kafui Mansu Biography

Israella Kafui Mansu stands as a shining example of what determination and creativity can achieve in the world of business. Born in Ghana, she turned a tough start into a successful career in natural skincare products. Her story shows how one person can overcome challenges like joblessness and build something that helps many others. As the founder of Mansuki Ghana Limited, also known as MGL Naturals, she has created jobs and inspired young people across Africa. This biography covers her life from early days to her current role as a leader in the beauty industry. Readers will learn about her path, the hurdles she faced, and the impact she has made. Her journey began in a small town and grew into an international brand, proving that small steps can lead to big changes. In Ghana, where youth unemployment remains a big issue, her success offers hope and practical lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. She started with just a small amount of money and a kitchen setup, but her focus on natural ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil set her apart. Today, her products reach markets beyond Ghana, showing the power of local resources. This introduction sets the stage for a deeper look into her life, highlighting key moments that shaped her. Whether you are interested in business, women’s empowerment, or African innovation, her story provides valuable insights. She also works as an actress, adding another layer to her multifaceted career. Through her work, she addresses health concerns in cosmetics, promoting safe and organic options. Her biography not only tells her personal tale but also reflects broader themes in Ghanaian entrepreneurship and sustainable beauty.

Israella Kafui Mansu Early Life

Israella Kafui Mansu came into the world on October 26, 1985, in Sogakope, a town in the Volta Region of Ghana. This area is known for its rivers and green landscapes, which may have influenced her later interest in natural products. Soon after her birth, her family moved to Liberia, where they lived for six years. This move happened during a time of peace in Liberia, but things changed quickly. The Liberian civil war started in 1989 and lasted until 1997, forcing many families like hers to leave. They returned to Ghana to escape the danger. This experience of displacement at a young age likely built her resilience. Back in Ghana, she grew up in a modest family setting. She has a brother, and her parents worked hard to provide for them. The family faced the common struggles of many in West Africa, including economic hardships after the war. Israella started school at the age of six in Sogakope Primary School. Later, she attended Dabala Primary and Junior High School. These early years were marked by simple living and a focus on education. Growing up in the Volta Region, she was surrounded by Ewe culture, which values community and hard work. The region’s natural resources, like palm oil and shea nuts, would later play a role in her business ideas. Her childhood taught her the importance of adapting to change. The move from Liberia back to Ghana showed her how life can shift suddenly. This period also exposed her to health issues common in tropical areas, such as skin problems from harsh weather. In interviews from 2014, she mentioned identifying health concerns in cosmetology in Ghana, like dry skin during harmattan season. Harmattan is a dry, dusty wind that blows in West Africa from December to February. These observations from her early life sparked her interest in natural remedies. By sharing her story, she highlights how personal experiences can lead to innovative solutions. Her early life serves as a foundation for understanding her drive to succeed despite obstacles. It reminds readers that many successful people start from humble places. In Ghana, where many families face similar relocations due to conflicts or economic reasons, her tale resonates deeply. Statistics from around 2000 show that war displaced thousands in West Africa, affecting education and family stability. Israella’s ability to turn these challenges into strengths is a key part of her biography.

Israella Kafui Mansu Education

Israella Kafui Mansu’s education path reflects her commitment to learning despite difficulties. After completing basic school in Dabala, she went to Anfoega Secondary School. This school is in the Volta Region and known for its focus on discipline and academics. She finished secondary education there, gaining skills that would help in her future endeavors. In Ghana, secondary school often prepares students for university or work. Israella excelled enough to enter the University of Ghana in Legon. She enrolled around 2005 and graduated in 2009. The University of Ghana is one of the top schools in West Africa, offering degrees in various fields. While specific details on her major are not widely shared, her education likely included subjects related to business or science, given her later career. During her time at university, she participated in activities that built her confidence. Graduation in 2009 came at a tough time for Ghana’s economy. The global financial crisis of 2008 affected many countries, including Ghana, leading to high youth unemployment. Israella faced this challenge head-on after getting her degree. She completed the National Service Scheme, a required program for Ghanaian graduates to serve their country for a year. This experience exposed her to real-world issues. Education in Ghana often emphasizes theory, but Israella learned to apply knowledge practically. Her story shows how higher education can be a stepping stone, even if jobs are scarce. In 2014 interviews, she spoke about using her education to research natural ingredients. This self-learning continued after university, proving that education does not end with a diploma. For readers, her path offers tips on lifelong learning. Many young Ghanaians face similar job hunts after school. According to data from 2010, youth unemployment in Ghana was around 25 percent. Israella’s response was to create her own opportunity. Her education equipped her with research skills, vital for developing products. She also gained exposure to global ideas at university, inspiring her to think big. This section of her biography underscores the role of education in building resilience. It educates readers on Ghana’s education system, where access to university is a big achievement for many from rural areas like Sogakope.

Israella Kafui Mansu Personal Life

Israella Kafui Mansu’s personal life remains mostly private, focusing public attention on her work. She comes from a close family, with parents and a brother who supported her early moves. After returning from Liberia in the early 1990s, the family settled back in Ghana. This bond likely gave her strength during tough times. In 2022, she shared a heartwarming story of helping a 13-year-old girl named Maame Adwoa. This girl had assisted Israella in 2009 by providing a single room when she started her business. Years later, Israella re-employed her and offered free housing, showing her gratitude and commitment to community. Such acts reveal her kind nature. As an Ewe from the Volta Region, she values cultural traditions. Her personal inspirations include faith and hard work, often mentioned in talks. She balances her roles as entrepreneur and actress, though details on acting projects are limited. Israella does not share much about romantic relationships or children in public. This privacy allows her to focus on business growth. Her story includes moments of giving back, like empowering youth through jobs. In a 2021 feature, she discussed community development. Her personal life reflects values of resilience and generosity, key to her success. Readers can learn from how she maintains balance amid busy schedules. In Ghana, where family ties are strong, her approach resonates.

Israella Kafui Mansu Net Worth

Israella Kafui Mansu’s net worth is not publicly disclosed in detail, making it hard to give an exact figure. Estimates from online sources in 2024 suggest it could be around 300,000 US dollars, but these are not verified. Her wealth comes mainly from Mansuki Ghana Limited, which has grown since 2009. The company sells natural skincare products locally and internationally, adding to her income. As CEO, she earns from sales, awards, and possible investments. In Ghana, entrepreneurs like her build wealth through business expansion rather than high salaries. Factors like market growth in organic beauty affect her net worth. The global natural cosmetics market is expanding, benefiting her brand. However, without official statements, any number remains speculative. Her focus seems more on impact than wealth display. For readers, this shows that success is not just about money but also about creating value. In 2025, with business growth, her net worth may rise, but facts are key.

Israella Kafui Mansu Career

Israella Kafui Mansu’s career began after her 2009 university graduation, when she faced unemployment. Ghana’s job market was tough, with many graduates struggling. Instead of giving up, she started researching natural cosmetics at home. With just 300 Ghanaian cedis, about 200 US dollars at the time, she set up a makeshift lab in her kitchen. She focused on local ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and palm oil. These are common in Ghana and known for skin benefits. Her first products addressed issues like dry skin and health concerns from chemical cosmetics. In September 2009, she founded Mansuki Ghana Limited, or MGL Naturals. It started small under a rented shed. By 2010, she had developed over 13 natural products, including soaps, oils, and creams. The company gained approvals from Ghana Standards Authority and Food and Drugs Authority, ensuring quality. Israella’s approach was unique: handcrafted, organic, and affordable. She targeted local markets first, then expanded. In 2014, she shared in interviews how she identified gaps in Ghana’s beauty industry. Many products caused skin problems, so she offered safe alternatives. Her business grew through word-of-mouth and media features. A 2016 BBC profile highlighted her as a self-taught skincare expert. This exposure boosted her brand internationally. She labeled products in French for wider reach in West Africa. By 2017, MGL exported to countries like South Africa and beyond. Israella also trained with organizations like Enablis, gaining business skills. Her career includes acting, though less detailed. She appeared in Ghanaian films, blending creativity with entrepreneurship. Awards marked her progress. In 2014, she placed second in Ghana Startup Cup. That year, South Africa’s deputy minister of trade honored her. In 2016, she was shortlisted for Ghana Startup Awards. By 2021, nomination in Forty under 40 Awards recognized her. In 2022, she won Outstanding Young Female Entrepreneur of the Year. She met notable figures like Prince Charles in 2018 and the British High Commissioner. These encounters opened doors. MGL now employs youth, addressing unemployment. In 2021, she featured on Joy Business Van, sharing her journey. Her career shows bootstrapping success: starting small and scaling up. She plans expansion into food products and US markets, as hinted in 2022 reports. Challenges included funding shortages and competition. She overcame them through research and persistence. Her story educates on starting a business in Africa: use local resources, get certifications, and network. In Ghana’s cosmetic industry, regulated since 1992, her compliance sets an example. Readers can apply her tips, like testing products at home first. Her career impacts sustainable beauty, promoting eco-friendly practices. As of 2025, MGL continues to grow, with online presence at www.mglnaturals.com. Israella’s dual role as actress adds appeal, though business is primary. Her achievements include job creation for over 50 people by 2022 estimates. This section details her professional growth, offering lessons in innovation and grit.

Here is a list of her key achievements:

Second place in Ghana Startup Cup in 2014.

Award from South Africa’s deputy minister of trade in April 2014.

Shortlisted in 2016 Ghana Startup Awards.

Nominated in 2021 Forty under 40 Awards.

Outstanding Young Female Entrepreneur of the Year in 2022.

Two Ghanaian and two international business awards, including from Enablis.

Featured on BBC in 2016 and Joy Business Van in 2021.

These honors reflect her hard work and innovation in natural skincare.

Israel Kafui Mansu Controversies

Israella Kafui Mansu has maintained a clean public image throughout her career. Searches and reports up to 2025 show no major controversies linked to her or her business. She focuses on positive impacts, like job creation and safe products. In the beauty industry, issues like false claims or safety concerns sometimes arise, but none apply to her. Her emphasis on natural ingredients and regulatory approvals helps avoid problems. This lack of scandals allows her to build trust with customers. For readers, it shows the value of ethical practices in business. If any issues emerge in the future, they would be addressed factually, but currently, her record is spotless.

Israel Kafui Mansu Legacy

Israella Kafui Mansu’s legacy lies in empowering women and youth in Ghana and Africa. Starting from unemployment in 2009, she built MGL Naturals into a symbol of African innovation. Her use of local ingredients promotes sustainable practices and economic growth. By 2025, her company has created jobs, reducing youth unemployment in Ghana. She inspires through stories shared in media, like 2017 features calling her a “wall-breaking” entrepreneur. Her impact includes training programs with groups like Enablis, helping others start businesses. In the beauty sector, she shifts focus to organic products, addressing health issues. Globally, she represents African women in entrepreneurship, meeting leaders like Prince Charles. Her legacy encourages using local resources for global markets. Future generations may see her as a pioneer in natural cosmetics. She plans expansions, ensuring long-term influence. Readers learn that legacy comes from positive change, not just profit. In Ghana, where women-led businesses are growing, her example boosts confidence. Data from 2020 shows African natural beauty market rising, partly due to innovators like her. Her story fosters pride in African creativity and resilience.

Conclusion

Israella Kafui Mansu’s biography tells a tale of triumph over adversity. From her birth in 1985 to building a skincare empire, she shows what persistence achieves. Her journey educates on entrepreneurship in Africa, highlighting natural resources and community support. Without major controversies, her focus remains on growth and impact. As of 2025, she continues to inspire through MGL Naturals. Her legacy of empowerment will last. This article aims to inform and motivate readers to pursue their dreams.

FAQs

Who is Israella Kafui Mansu?

Israella Kafui Mansu is a Ghanaian entrepreneur and actress born on October 26, 1985. She founded Mansuki Ghana Limited in 2009, specializing in natural skincare products.

How did Israella Kafui Mansu start her business?

She started after unemployment in 2009, using 300 Ghanaian cedis to research and create natural cosmetics in her kitchen.

What products does MGL Naturals offer?

MGL Naturals offers organic items like shea butter soaps, coconut oils, and palm-based creams, all handcrafted with natural ingredients.

What awards has Israella Kafui Mansu won?

She has won awards like second in Ghana Startup Cup 2014, Outstanding Young Female Entrepreneur 2022, and honors from Enablis and South Africa.

Is Israella Kafui Mansu an actress?

Yes, she is an actress in addition to her business role, though her entrepreneurship is her main focus.15.8sAsk anything