Planting seeds of success

De Jeun?sse, which means “youthfulness” in French Creole was created in 2013 by the sisters and is aimed at “maintaining youthful skin the natural way.” The company has come a long way since its inception and now includes Shenelle’s husband, Dwayne Fife, who provides the raw material, transport and moulds.

Currently De Jeun?sse produces moisturising face and body soaps, body butters and wood wick candles from a unique combination of raw material found locally. The soap line consists of five soaps: Hibiscus and Noni; Morning Brew; Caribbean Spice; Meek and Mild and Turmeric and Lemon.

“The hibiscus is a natural botox and the noni has youthful properties to help make the skin look younger,” explained Shenelle.

The Morning Brew rejuvenates and helps tighten and tone the skin, and contains coffee to help reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Caribbean Spice is infused with cinnamon, nutmeg and paprika, making it highly exfoliating to get rid of dead skin cells. Meek and Mild has locally produced carrots which is specifically created scentless for the sensitive skin of toddlers, and Turmeric and Lemon helps in removing dark spots and exfoliates the skin.

What sets De Jeun?sse apart from other natural brands is that seed paper is included in each soap so customers also get the opportunity to create their own kitchen and flower gardens.

Shenelle, 25, who plays a key role in every aspect of the business said “A batch of 24 takes one hour to make and we try to support local producers by purchasing raw material right here in Trinidad and Tobago.” One of the long-term goals is to turn De Jeun?sse into a full-time business, and the team has continuously sought to place the company in a better position by taking several courses from the Ministry of Community Development in bath and body, soap, spa and candle making.

When asked by Business Day about the company’s future business endeavours Shenelle said, “We need to branch out at home first before expanding. Our hope for the future is to expand our product lines to lip balms, body scrubs and charcoal soap and to widen its reach in Trinidad and Tobago, export to the Caribbean and eventually internationally.” Their clientele has grown from family members, to coworkers and people they have met through networking over the three years in the Caribbean and abroad. Persistence and passion are fundamental aspects of De Jeun?sse, as 20-year-old Jenelle lamented that through their challenges there were a lot of rewarding times.

Dwayne noted that anything that is worth it, would take some effort. De Jeun?sse also does customisation upon request for specific colours and fragrances, as well as matching gift sets.

De Jeun?sse can be contacted via email dejeunessebb@outlook.com.