Latoya’s Story
When Latoya first began experimenting with natural skincare products as a teenager, she could not have imagined it would grow into her own business. Taking part in The Teenage Market gave her the confidence, customer base, and belief that her passion could be a viable business, complete with her own shop on the high street.
Latoya Likambi has always been curious and ambitious. As a child, she was already exploring writing and public speaking, publishing a book at just ten years old. But her entrepreneurial spark really ignited in Year 8 when she was gifted a skincare kit. Experimenting with natural ingredients quickly became a passion. “I loved the idea of making something that was good for your skin, good for your body, and good for the environment.” she said.
Encouraged by her mother, who has a background in pharmacy and research, Latoya set herself the challenge of creating products that were 100% organic, cold-pressed, and packaged sustainably. This commitment to quality became the foundation of Teyes Eye Skincare & Cosmetics, her brand of handmade skincare products.
At first, Latoya sold her products informally, making them to order for her friends through Instagram. Orders trickled in, and word began to spread. Over time she developed a clear product line of butters, scrubs, and oils, each with simple, natural ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. Her parents supported her vision, with her mum helping to manage the finances and her dad encouraging her to take the bold step of opening a physical store. In 2022, at just 16 years old, Latoya opened her first shop on Picton Road, Wavertree, Liverpool—a remarkable achievement for someone still at college.
Although her business had grown online and in-store, Latoya had never traded in a market setting before. That changed when she came across The Teenage Market in Earlestown, after her teacher provided her with a leaflet. The idea of a free stall with no financial risk was appealing, especially compared to traditional markets where fees and insurance can deter young people.
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The Teenage Market gave me my first proper platform to trade in person. It felt so different to anything I’d done before—much more community-driven and supportive. ”
At the Christmas Teenage Market in Earlestown, Latoya’s products proved popular. She took home over £400 at the event, making more money in a single day than most of her friends make in a whole week! Beyond the sales, Latoya credits taking part in The Teenage Market with boosting her confidence and social skills. Talking to customers face-to-face helped her refine her pitch, explain her ingredients, and build personal relationships with new audiences.
Speaking about the experience, she explained “It wasn’t just about making money. It was about meeting people, sharing my story, and learning how to connect with customers.” She also met other young traders, finding a creative community that contrasted with the isolation many young entrepreneurs experience when starting out.
One of the biggest lessons Latoya has taken from The Teenage Market is the importance of building trust in her local community. This mindset has shaped her strategy. Instead of chasing viral trends, she has concentrated on repeat customers in Wavertree and Liverpool, developing a loyal base that sustains her growth. Taking part in The Teenage Market has helped her connect with that community, using the events to promote her shop as well as her products.
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It wasn’t just about making money. It was about meeting people, sharing my story, and learning how to connect with customers in-person, face-to-face. ”
In 2024, motivated by the urge to build her own community, Latoya launched the Teyes Eye Wellness Club—a new venture that brings together skincare and lifestyle within her shop . Offering smoothies, iced matcha, and other healthy drinks alongside her products, the Wellness Club creates an inviting, experiential space for the community.
Now 18, Latoya is embarking on a degree apprenticeship that allows her to stay in Liverpool while continuing to run the shop. This balance is important to her—she wants to keep growing Teyes Eye without losing touch with her community roots.
She is already looking ahead to the future. Over the next three years, she plans to consolidate her business in Wavertree, refine her product line, and develop the Wellness Club. Beyond that, she dreams of opening a second store in Manchester or London and one day pursuing a Master’s degree.