From Apprenticeship to CEO: Nadia Rickmann’s Transformation

Nadia Rickmann’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of personal growth. Born in Madagascar and adopted into a Swiss family at a young age, she faced early challenges that shaped her determination to succeed. After leaving high school to pursue independence, she built a career in debt collection, where her dedication and drive led her to new opportunities. Her passion for learning propelled her through various fields, from private investigation to human resources, eventually leading her to entrepreneurship. In 2021, Nadia experienced a profound mindset shift that inspired her to start her skincare line, Felika Switzerland, blending her love for natural, Swiss-sourced ingredients with her commitment to quality. As a mother of three, she balances family life with her ambitious business goals, always prioritising self-development and positivity. Nadia’s story is a transformation, as she continuously steps out of her comfort zone to pursue her dreams. Today, she leads her cosmetics brand focusing on innovation, sustainability, and empowerment.

What inspired you to create your line of skincare products, and how did your personal skincare journey influence this decision?

My inspiration to create a skincare line stemmed from a desire to offer high-quality, effective solutions that are as natural as possible while maintaining a luxurious feel. As a mother of three with sensitive skin, I struggled to find gentle, everyday-use products that suited my skin needs. I also wanted to infuse my products with the magic of Switzerland, incorporating Swiss grape polyphenols known for their incredible antioxidant benefits. This journey allowed me to create something that I could be proud of while addressing a genuine skincare gap.

Can you describe the specific skin needs your products are designed to address?

My products are tailored for hydration and protection, particularly for dry skin and ageing concerns. We focus on using high-quality, natural ingredients like Swiss grape polyphenols, which help protect the skin from environmental damage and free radicals. What sets my products apart is the combination of effectiveness and the sensory experience they provide. Each product delivers results while offering a luxurious, calming application process.

What were some of the challenges you faced during the development process, and how did you overcome them?

One of the main challenges was finding the right packaging. The jars I initially chose didn’t pass leakproof tests, which forced me to start over, losing time in the process. While frustrating, it was a valuable lesson in ensuring every detail aligns with my brand’s quality. I also had a bad experience with a marketing agency, but I learned to let go of past mistakes and focus on the future. These setbacks strengthened my resolve to stay committed to my vision and keep pushing forward.

How did working with experts and laboratories shape the development of your skincare line?

Collaborating with experts and laboratories was crucial. As someone new to the cosmetics industry, their expertise helped me navigate the complex world of ingredient interactions, safety testing, and formulation refinement. They provided insights into the latest advancements in skincare technology, ensuring that my products were not only effective but also aligned with industry standards and innovations.

What makes your products stand out in a market saturated with skincare options?

The combination of high-quality, natural ingredients like Swiss grape polyphenols and the emphasis on creating a luxurious experience sets my products apart. These polyphenols offer strong antioxidant protection, helping to neutralize free radicals, while the scents and textures of the products transform a daily skincare routine into a calming, indulgent ritual. It’s not just about results, but the entire sensory journey.

How did your experiences as a consumer struggling to find the right products inform the ingredients and technologies you prioritized in your formulations?

As a consumer with sensitive skin, I knew I needed to prioritize gentle yet effective ingredients. The Swiss grape polyphenols were a key focus because they offer both hydration and protection against ageing. My goal was to combine premium Swiss ingredients with innovative technologies to create products that not only meet high standards of quality but also provide a luxurious and satisfying experience for the user.

How do you balance your role as a mother of three and an entrepreneur, managing both family and business responsibilities?

It’s all about setting priorities and being organized. My family is my passion, and spending quality time with them is a top priority. However, I’m also committed to my business and personal development. My husband and I coordinate our schedules to ensure both the business and family life are balanced. It’s a challenge, but one that I approach with the same dedication I apply to everything else in life.

How do your personal experiences influence the branding and messaging behind your skincare line?

My journey from Madagascar to Switzerland shaped me into someone who embraces resilience and uniqueness. These qualities are embedded in my brand. I want Felika to represent authenticity, quality, and perseverance. By using Swiss polyphenols, I not only highlight the essence of Switzerland but also symbolize the purity and excellence I aim to offer through my products. My personal development journey is also mirrored in the brand’s messaging, focusing on growth, positivity, and self-care.

What steps have you taken to ensure that your skincare line aligns with sustainable and ethical beauty practices?

While the first batch of products had limitations due to startup costs, our long-term goal is to work exclusively with reputable European suppliers known for their ecological practices. We emphasize sourcing materials locally or from Europe to minimize our carbon footprint, and we’re committed to continuously improving sustainability as the brand grows.

What kind of feedback have you received from customers since launching your products, and how does this influence your future product development?

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with customers praising the anti-ageing serum and moisture cream for their effectiveness. Many have noted significant improvements in their skin, including reduced redness, enhanced softness, and an overall more radiant complexion. This feedback has motivated me to continue refining and expanding the product range, ensuring that we maintain the same high standards and deliver on customer needs.

Your personal growth journey played a pivotal role in the creation of your business. How does personal development continue to influence your entrepreneurial path?

Personal development is at the core of my business. I’ve learned that before growing a business, you need to grow yourself. I constantly invest in seminars, read personal development books, and practice gratitude daily. By working on my mindset, I’ve been able to step out of my comfort zone and embrace challenges with joy. This mindset shift is what has allowed me to succeed in both my personal and professional life.

Looking forward, how do you envision your skincare line evolving, and what are your plans for the future?

I see my skincare line growing gradually while staying true to its roots. My immediate goal is to develop three more products to complete our core range. Beyond that, I have a long-term vision to expand, but I’m taking it step by step. I want each new product to reflect the same high standards and values that define Felika, ensuring consistency and excellence as we grow.