Our Story

Hi, I'm Suzan! A South Sudanese/ Sudanese-American U.S. Army Veteran, mother, and founder of Kandaka Safia—a clean beauty brand rooted in ancient Sudanese skin care traditions.

Born in Khartoum, Sudan, my journey took me from a political refugee to beauty entrepreneur. At just 14, I began selling Avon in Egypt door-to-door, which igniting a lifelong passion for cosmetics, skincare, and wellness. After serving in the U.S. Army and earning a Sports and Health Sciences degree, I started my career in fitness, and began incorporating makeup during my clients bodybuliding shows. I also used my makeup skills to hide my postnatal acne, which took a toll on my confidence.

After 30 years, I returned to Sudan for the first time in 2018 and during my trip, I visited a local spa where I experienced the powerful results of Sudanese traditional natural skin care. My skin was clearing and supple with a healthy glow. This inspired me to launch Kandaka Safia, a Leaping Bunny Certified Woman Veteran–Owned brand using ingredients ethically sourced from South Sudanese and Sudanese women-led businesses.

Kandaka Safia combines indigenous African ingredients with modern science to create effective, non-toxic skincare that meets EU clean beauty standards—free from parabens, synthetic preservatives, and harsh chemicals.

In 2024 we expanded our brand with the addition of Loc Accessory (Locsccessory Collection) and Mastura Microlocs Care. 

I vow to bring the healing power of East African beauty rituals to the global stage, while empowering women across the diaspora.