Kensington Pharmacy: A timeless local gem with a new vision
Durban’s Kensington Pharmacy uncovered a hand-painted sign from 1951. Meet the fearless businesswoman behind the pharmacy built on heart.
In the bustling heart of Broadway, a serendipitous discovery has stirred nostalgia and excitement within the community.
At the helm of this delightful revelation is Merisha Nayager, the formidable and first female owner of Kensington Pharmacy, an establishment that's more of a community cornerstone than merely a business entity.
While undergoing some necessary maintenance, an artifact from the past emerged. A hand-painted sign dating back to the pharmacy’s inception in 1951.
"We had to remove the lightbox signage for refurbishment, and as we did, I found myself standing in awe," Merisha shared in an interview with East Coast Radio.
"It’s hand-painted art, a rarity in today's age, reminding me that Kensington Pharmacy is deeply rooted in the history of this area."
This sign is not just an old relic; it encapsulates a rich legacy that traces back to its original owner, Dr. Fred Clarke, who established the pharmacy and later sold it to Peter and Keith Carruthers.
Through more than seven decades, the pharmacy has seen only three owners, with Merisha now steering this legacy forward with a fresh yet respectful nod to its historic roots.
Merisha’s passion extends beyond the pharmacy itself. As an accomplished business owner with ventures in recruitment and fashion, she has always been about empowering community ties.
Her clothing line, which thrived during the pandemic, reflects her innovative spirit, offering locally sourced bespoke designs. It’s this entrepreneurial spirit and profound care for community wellness that have breathed new life into the business.
From her childhood days, Merisha recalled playing in the aisles of Kensington Pharmacy with her sister while their mother fetched medicine.
"Now, standing here today as its owner, it's a full circle moment," she expressed with emotion.
Her ascent to ownership is a tale of empowerment and determination, as she transformed the pharmacy into a community-centric institution, fostering an environment where each customer is more than just a number.
Merisha has infused Kensington Pharmacy with a familial atmosphere, offering personalised services such as house calls, medication drop-offs, and even an in-house clinic.
"We greet our regulars by name, we know their pets and what sports they are into. We are your family, and it's that personal touch that sets us apart," she proudly mentioned. “We lead with heart and soul. If you’re sick and can’t come to us, we’ll come to you.”
Her approach is not merely about providing pharmaceutical services; it's about fostering a community. Her business thrives not on volume but on genuine, personal connections. This is a philosophy that resonates deeply with those choosing her pharmacy over the larger players down the road.
According to Merisha, the pharmacy has become a place where seniors can find comfort and familiarity, whether they’re coming in to have their sugar levels checked or simply seeking warm human interaction.
The addition of a clinic within the pharmacy walls is a testament to her commitment to holistic care.
The community's reaction to the rediscovered sign has been overwhelmingly positive, with locals expressing both delight and curiosity.
"Residents are just as surprised and excited as we are about the old signage," Merisha noted.
Her team is actively exploring ways to preserve this piece of history, balancing the old with the new.
In light of Youth Month, Merisha is a standout example of what consistency, determination and perseverance can manifest. For all the young girls looking to achieve success in the world, she has one piece of golden advice.
“Take your fears and let that fuel your passion. There's that glass ceiling that you continuously have to bash against, and as a woman, you just go for it. Don't listen to the noise.
Yes, you're going to feel tired. Yes, you're going to have days where you feel demotivated, but get back up and just push ahead. Consistency is the only thing that warrants success.
If you just do something towards your vision every single day to solidify your mission and purpose, take your fears, take your anxiety, take every negative emotion or negative thing said about you and turn it into energy and fuel and you'll receive nothing but success”.
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