When I first came across the story of 54 Thrones, I was instantly captivated. Here was a brand rooted in authenticity, blending African traditions with modern skincare needs, and the journey it undertook was nothing short of inspiring. If you’re a fan of “Shark Tank” or love to explore unique entrepreneurial stories, you’re in for a treat. Let me take you through the detailed, fascinating journey of 54 Thrones, its founder Christina Funke Tegbe, and how this skincare brand blossomed into a celebrated success.
The Beginning of 54 Thrones
At its core, 54 Thrones is a celebration of African beauty rituals. Christina Funke Tegbe, the brains behind the brand, founded it to share the richness of her Nigerian heritage and the incredible power of natural African botanicals. As someone who left a corporate healthcare consulting job to pursue her passion, Christina’s story is a testament to chasing dreams and staying true to one’s roots.
Christina’s inspiration came from her childhood memories of her Nigerian aunt’s rituals, where she’d receive tins of shea butter sourced directly from Africa. She envisioned a brand that not only honored these traditions but also provided ethically sourced, high-quality skincare products to the world. The brand’s name itself is a nod to Africa’s 54 countries, symbolizing unity and diversity.
The “Shark Tank” Pitch
It was on Season 13, Episode 4 of “Shark Tank” that 54 Thrones stepped into the spotlight. Christina walked into the tank seeking $250,000 in exchange for 10% equity in her company. Her pitch was both passionate and educational, showcasing her deep knowledge of African botanicals and her commitment to empowering local artisans across the continent.
What truly stood out was how Christina managed to achieve $500,000 in sales in 2020 with only $8,000 spent on marketing. Much of this success was fueled by word-of-mouth referrals and the brand’s feature in “Oprah’s Favorite Things,” a milestone many entrepreneurs only dream of.
Christina’s presentation wasn’t just about numbers—it was about storytelling. She shared her journey, her challenges, and her vision, captivating the sharks with her authenticity. One memorable moment from the episode was when she passionately explained the importance of ethically sourced ingredients and the impact 54 Thrones has on the African artisans she works with.
The Deal and Investment Details
After some back-and-forth negotiations, Christina struck a deal with guest shark Nirav Tolia and Kevin O’Leary. The final agreement was $250,000 for 17.5% equity. While it was a higher equity stake than her initial offer, Christina believed in the value the sharks could bring to her brand’s growth.
Nirav Tolia’s expertise in community-driven businesses and Kevin O’Leary’s strategic investments in lifestyle brands made them ideal partners. This deal marked a pivotal moment for 54 Thrones, providing the resources and mentorship needed to scale the business.
Data-Rich Breakdown of 54 Thrones
Here’s a snapshot of 54 Thrones’ “Shark Tank” journey and its progress since:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | 54 Thrones |
| Founders | Christina Funke Tegbe |
| Season & Episode | Season 13, Episode 4 |
| Ask (Investment & Equity) | $250,000 for 10% equity |
| Final Deal | $250,000 for 17.5% equity |
| Shark(s) Involved | Kevin O’Leary and Nirav Tolia |
| Memorable Episode Moments | Feature in “Oprah’s Favorite Things”; $500,000 in sales with minimal marketing |
| Current Net Worth | Estimated at $3.25 million (as of December 2023) |
| Current Business Status | Active |
| Revenue Since Shark Tank | Approximately $1.3 million annually (as of December 2023) |
| Social Media Presence | Over 50,000 Instagram followers |
| Key Achievements | Expansion into Sephora, Nordstrom, and Credo Beauty; featured in Vogue and Glamour |
Life After “Shark Tank”
The “Shark Tank” appearance was a catalyst for 54 Thrones’ growth. Post-show, Christina and her team worked tirelessly to meet the increased demand for their products. They expanded their product line and secured partnerships with major retailers like Sephora, Nordstrom, and Credo Beauty.
The brand’s presence in these retail giants wasn’t just a business win—it was a validation of African beauty rituals on a global stage. Additionally, 54 Thrones continued to receive media attention, with features in prestigious publications like Vogue and Glamour, further solidifying its reputation as a luxury skincare brand.
By December 2023, 54 Thrones reported annual revenues of approximately $1.3 million, a testament to its steady growth and loyal customer base. Social media also played a significant role, with the brand amassing over 50,000 followers on Instagram and maintaining high engagement through authentic storytelling and visually stunning content.
Challenges and Triumphs
Like any entrepreneurial journey, 54 Thrones faced its fair share of challenges. Scaling production to meet growing demand while maintaining ethical sourcing practices required careful planning and execution. Additionally, navigating the competitive skincare market meant constantly innovating and staying true to the brand’s unique identity.
Despite these challenges, Christina’s unwavering commitment to her mission and her ability to adapt ensured 54 Thrones’ continued success. The brand’s focus on quality, authenticity, and social impact resonated deeply with consumers, setting it apart in a crowded industry.
Current Status and Future Outlook
As of January 2025, 54 Thrones remains a thriving business. The brand’s reach has extended beyond the U.S., with customers from around the world embracing its luxurious skincare products. Its estimated net worth stands at $3.25 million, reflecting its growing influence and success.
Looking ahead, the future of 54 Thrones seems brighter than ever. Christina has hinted at plans to introduce new products and further expand the brand’s global presence. With a solid foundation and a clear vision, 54 Thrones is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
There’s so much to learn from Christina Funke Tegbe’s journey. Here are my key takeaways:
- Authenticity Matters: Christina’s success stems from staying true to her roots and creating a brand that tells a story. Customers connect with authenticity.
- Ethical Practices Pay Off: By prioritizing ethical sourcing and supporting African artisans, 54 Thrones has built a brand that stands for more than just skincare.
- Adaptability is Key: From adjusting her “Shark Tank” pitch to scaling her business post-show, Christina demonstrated the importance of flexibility and perseverance.
Conclusion
The story of 54 Thrones is one of passion, resilience, and purpose. It’s about a woman who dared to dream big and brought the beauty of African traditions to the world stage. For aspiring entrepreneurs, it’s a reminder that success lies in combining authenticity with strategic execution.
As I follow the journey of 54 Thrones, I’m excited to see what’s next for this remarkable brand. Christina Funke Tegbe has proven that with determination and heart, anything is possible. Here’s to 54 Thrones—a brand that’s not just about skincare but about celebrating heritage, empowering communities, and making a lasting impact.