Tanzanian-born model and activistFlaviana Matatawas the 2007 Miss Universe Tanzania. She’s worked with the likes of Alexander McQueen, Tory Burch, and Vivienne Westwood, among others. As if that weren’t impressive enough, Flaviana is also the founder and CEO of theFlaviana Matata Foundation, a non-profit organization founded in 2011 that focuses on empowering young women in Tanzania through education, training, and micro-finance projects.
Flaviana has her own nail polish company too, called Lavy Products, which she started after learning about how house paint was masqueraded and sold as nail polish in Tanzania. When Flaviana recognized a need for high quality and fairly priced nail polish, she asked herself how she could fulfill that need.
Lavy Products, which are now available in Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, South Africa, and the United States, works together with the Flaviana Matata Foundation to teach women in East Africa nail care skills, along with details of running a nail care business.
Ahead, Flaviana shares her self-care tips, tricks, and favorite ever products in this week’s “Shortlisted.”
Power Mantra
“Do your best and let God do the rest.”
This reminds me to give my best in everything I do but because I believe God is in control, if I don’t get the results I want I know it wasn’t meant to be and something better will come—or not at all because it wasn’t meant for me.
Skincare Essential
I started using it this past winter and it works wonders. Not only me, but everyone around me, has noticed how my skin has improved. I’m all for that glow!
Can’t Miss Podcast
I love to listen to How I Built This with Guy Raz. Being a startup owner, it’s very important to learn and get familiar with other entrepreneur’s journeys. Raz features so many amazing founders that I admire and I’m really learning a lot from his podcast.
Happy Place Outfit
Definitely my Victoria’s Secret PJs. I have so many other pajamas but for some reasons I wear them over and over.
Currently Reading + Listening
I’m currently reading The Power Of Habit by Charles Duhigg. It’s such a great read on how small changes in cohabit can transform your life!
And I’m listening to my friend Vanessa Mdee’s album Money Mondays.
Productivity Hack
Catching up with my team back home over the phone in the morning, while making breakfast, since we operate from different time zones. This helps me to leave the house for other stuff knowing what the day was like back home. Then I can attend/resolve what I have to do from my end.
Most-Opened App
Definitely Twitter. That’s one platform that is not distracted by visuals. That way I get to use my voice but also get instant news of what’s going on all around the world. And my handle is @flavianamatata.
Good Hair Secret Weapon
Camille Rose Naturals Curl Moisture Milk
Flats, Heels, or Sneakers?
Definitely sneakers. I’m going home and will be running around, comfort is key. These are my favorite pair.
Self-Care Method Of Choice
Spending a few hours at the spa for massage, facials, manicure, and pedicure. Everyone who knows me knows that the spa is my happy place. I get to relax and recharge.
Go-To GIF
I only use emoji and you will find this one in almost all of my posts.
