EAST LONDON– Eastern Cape born makeup artist Akhiwe May, founder of MeyBee Beauty in Berea, East London is gearing up to bring glamour and precision to the Berlin November Horse Race‑SA 2025, marking her business’s first‑ever participation in the prestigious event.
Originally from Whittlesea in Lower Didamana Village, May has spent 13 years mastering the craft of makeup artistry. Earning recognition for her exceptional skill, passion and attention to detail.
Her journey began after completing matric in 2010, when she pursued cosmetology at Motheo College in Bloemfontein. She later gained hands‑on experience working at beauty counters for Smashbox, Kimik and Foschini where her talent quickly attracted a growing clientele.
“I started doing house calls while working in counters and it just took off from there,” she explained in an exclusive interview with Eastern Cape Daily News.
The demand for her artistry led May to establish MeyBee Beauty in 2022, first operating from a small branch in Vincent Park. In 2023, she expanded to a larger and more accessible studio in Berea now the home of her flourishing brand.
Having attended the Berlin November event over the years, May noticed a recurring challenge that attendees struggling to get ready on time. “In the past years attending the Berlin November event, I’ve noticed that people are always running late on the day as I’ve had clients who would be attending the event,” she said.
“That’s why MeyBee Beauty decided to be part of the event for the first time so that people can get ready on time and have their makeup done at affordable prices,” May.
At the event, MeyBee Beauty will offer a variety of makeup services, with prices starting at R250 for a touch‑up and R450 for a natural look. May’s selection as one of six businesses chosen to participate through the Estudio Glam Foundation initiative in partnership with the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) marks an important milestone for her brand.
Proud of her innovative techniques and signature styles, May says MeyBee Beauty’s focus is on enhancing natural beauty and ensuring clients leave feeling special.
“We pride ourselves in doing our makeup in different unique ways, making people look flawless. As a renowned makeup artist, it means a lot enhancing beauty and making every individual we give makeup to feel special,” she said.
Furthermore with 50% of time slots already booked, May encourages attendees to secure their appointments early, though walk‑ins will also be welcomed on the day.
For bookings and inquiries, WhatsApp or call 083 515 6514 or visit MeyBee Beauty SA on Instagram.
Photographs: supplied
