Thabo James Mthembu, known to many as The Smile Keeper, isn’t just building a business — he’s building a movement. As the founder of ProphyDental, an oral hygiene brand with purpose, passion, and sustainability at its core, Thabo is pioneering a new way of doing business in South Africa and beyond.
Through ProphyDental, he supplies eco-friendly and high-quality dental tools — from biodegradable floss picks to bamboo toothbrushes — all designed to protect the one thing we use every single day: our smile. But make no mistake, Thabo isn’t just selling toothbrushes. He’s selling access, innovation, pride, and a vision for the future of healthcare that’s both ethical and empowering.
What makes him stand out?
“I am the business.”
Thabo brings the same fire to every order that others bring to their biggest pitch. He’s built his brand from the ground up with no handouts — just vision, heart, and an unshakable commitment to doing things right. From rain-soaked deliveries to late-night order runs, he shows up every time. And it’s that consistency, that realness, that sets him apart.
His motto?
“My only motto in life is: don’t lose.” – Nicki Minaj.
And he lives that line like scripture. For Thabo, losses become lessons. Hustle is holy. And staying true to your purpose — even when the odds are ugly — is non-negotiable.
Nominated across three major categories — Business Pioneer, Beauty Innovation, and Future Leader — Thabo represents a new kind of entrepreneur: one who leads with impact, who builds with both grit and grace, and who puts his whole heart into everything he touches.
A vote for Thabo is a vote for innovation, integrity, and inspiration. He’s not pretending. He’s doing the work — and doing it beautifully.