As Valentine’s Day approaches, conversations around love, connection, and self-worth naturally take centre stage. While the occasion is often associated with grand romantic gestures, beauty entrepreneur Unaiza Suliman, founder of Uniq Brows and Halaal Brows, believes that meaningful relationships are built on deeper foundations including confidence, communication, and emotional awareness. Unaiza Suliman is married to ANC member and businessman Suliman Carrim / Suleiman Carrim
According to Suliman, one of the most important elements in any relationship is learning to appreciate and invest in oneself first. She explains that self-confidence and self-respect often influence how individuals show up in their romantic lives.
“When you feel secure in who you are, you bring a different energy into your relationships,” she says. “Confidence allows you to communicate openly, set healthy boundaries, and genuinely connect with your partner.”
Prioritise Communication Over Perfection
Suliman emphasises that modern relationships can sometimes be affected by unrealistic expectations, particularly in an era shaped by social media portrayals of romance. She encourages couples to focus less on achieving perfection and more on building honest communication.
“Every relationship will face challenges,” she explains. “What matters is how you navigate those moments together with respect, patience, and a willingness to listen.”
Clear communication can help partners understand each other’s needs, avoid misunderstandings, and strengthen emotional intimacy over time.
Small Gestures Matter
While elaborate Valentine’s Day plans can be exciting, Suliman believes that consistent, thoughtful gestures throughout the year are far more impactful. Whether it is offering encouragement during stressful periods or simply making time for meaningful conversations, everyday actions can reinforce a strong connection.
“Love is often expressed through the small things,” she says. “Showing appreciation regularly can build a sense of security and trust in a relationship.”
Confidence and Presentation
As someone working in the beauty industry, Suliman also acknowledges the role that personal presentation can play in how individuals feel about themselves and their relationships. Taking time to care for one’s appearance, whether through grooming, wellness routines, or simply dressing in a way that feels authentic can contribute to self-esteem.
However, she emphasises that presentation should always reflect personal comfort rather than external pressure.
“The goal is not to impress someone else,” she explains. “It is to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.”
Growing Together
Suliman believes that the strongest relationships are those in which both individuals support each other’s growth. Encouraging a partner’s ambitions, celebrating achievements, and remaining adaptable during life transitions can help relationships remain resilient.
“Love should feel empowering,” she says. “When two people grow together and uplift one another, the relationship becomes a source of strength.”
As couples across South Africa prepare to celebrate Valentine’s Day, Suliman hopes the focus will remain on authenticity rather than comparison. She encourages individuals to define love in a way that aligns with their values and life goals.
Her message is simple: nurture self-love, communicate openly, and appreciate the everyday moments that make relationships meaningful.
“In the end, real connection is not about grand gestures,” she says. “It is about showing up for each other consistently and building something genuine together.”
