At Studio 109 Nelson Mandela Avenue, clients book Tsitsi Mushapaidze for nails and makeup. Many leave having had a counseling session.
“I do makeup and nails, but that’s not where it ends,” says Mushapaidze,
She’s a Christian makeup artist, nail technician, and professional backing vocalist.
“My business is associated with a lot of women, we end up talking and bonding and sharing” she said
” These ladies just happen to trust me with a lot, which makes most of our appointments ‘counseling sessions.’ That’s how I minister to the people.”
Mushapaidze’s path into beauty started at home. Her aunt taught her beginner nail lessons, and she taught herself the rest including makeup.
“Then later I realized I’m actually good and very passionate about teaching, so these days I do more of that,” she says.
Self-taught skill became a studio, and the studio became a safe space. But Mushapaidze is candid about the industry she works in.
“Staying Christian in the beauty industry needs someone who is vigilant,” she says.
“My industry is associated with a lot of bad things — like juju, dating married men, prostitution, etc. Most of them are very true. That’s why I intentionally introduce myself as a Christian makeup artist and nail tech. It’s a constant reminder that Christianity and beauty can marry. You don’t have to be dirty to stay relevant in the industry.”
That conviction shapes how she runs her business. Appointments at her studio often stretch beyond lashes and polish into prayer, encouragement, and accountability. Clients don’t just come for glam; they come because they relate to her life.
Music is the other bridge. As a backing vocalist, Mushapaidze has shared stages and studio sessions, most notably with gospel artist Janet Manyowa.
“I also sing,” she says simply.
“So my clients relate with me and my life in many ways more than just nails or makeup.”
Between the microphone and the makeup chair, teaching has become her sweet spot. What began as lessons from an aunt has grown into a ministry of skill and discipleship — one face, one set of nails, one conversation at a time.
