WANDA BRUSH
Prize(s):
WINNER 2026 PRODUCT DESIGN / Electronics Products Design
Company Name:PLUSMINUSZERO DESIGN
Lead Designer(s) Name(s):Francois Du Plessis
Design Team / Other designer(s):PLUSMINUSZERO DESIGN / DENIS FUTTER
Manufacturer Name:CIM
Distributors Name:MABUTRIBE
Client Name:MABUTRIBE / TLHOLOGELO MABELANE
Photo Credit:FRANCOIS DU PLESSIS
Project Location:CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Design Status:Prototype
Video URL:View
Product Description:
This a USB-C powered active-moisturizing hair-detangling brush. With various sized bristle attachments, the brush also has 4 powered nano-misters which deliver moisture directly to the hair while brushing. We took design queues from a fan-favourite depiction of a futuristic Africa: Wakanda (Marvel Universe movies). Inspired by hi-tech African shields - this brush communicates a forward-thinking African product.
This a USB-C powered active-moisturizing hair-detangling brush. With various sized bristle attachments, the brush also has 4 powered nano-misters which deliver moisture directly to the hair while brushing. We took design queues from a fan-favourite depiction of a futuristic Africa: Wakanda (Marvel Universe movies). Inspired by hi-tech African shields - this brush communicates a forward-thinking African product.
Product Innovation / Specification:
The African hair-care market has felt somewhat motionless for the last few years with little advancement in technologies to directly address & care for african hair. Our pyramid-shaped bristles have been designed to effectively detangle hair, and the nano-misters deliver a fine mist that increases the efficacy of the detangling action.
The African hair-care market has felt somewhat motionless for the last few years with little advancement in technologies to directly address & care for african hair. Our pyramid-shaped bristles have been designed to effectively detangle hair, and the nano-misters deliver a fine mist that increases the efficacy of the detangling action.
Product Sustainability Approach:
As fully recycled materials weren't an option due to the mechanical (water holding) and aesthetic requirements of the product, we will use a maximum of 20% recycled materials once production begins. In addition we will address sustainability and a reduction of carbon footprint in the manufacturing and distribution chain - producing parts locally, assembly & production in the same premises and once distribution is finalised we will work toward making that process more efficient. We will also be using recyclable materials in the packaging.
As fully recycled materials weren't an option due to the mechanical (water holding) and aesthetic requirements of the product, we will use a maximum of 20% recycled materials once production begins. In addition we will address sustainability and a reduction of carbon footprint in the manufacturing and distribution chain - producing parts locally, assembly & production in the same premises and once distribution is finalised we will work toward making that process more efficient. We will also be using recyclable materials in the packaging.
Local and Regional Impacts of the Product:
Aside from more beautiful hair, the manufacture & assembly of the product will be going to local (South African) companies.
Aside from more beautiful hair, the manufacture & assembly of the product will be going to local (South African) companies.
