Mikuel Namasi, the renowned South African businesswoman and content creator, is once again hosting her highly anticipated makeup masterclass, but the hefty price tag has triggered a massive online debate.

People are finding the price of the masterclass to be ridiculously expensive, igniting discussions about affordability, value, and celebrity brand power in South Africa’s current economic climate.

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Mihlali Ndamase, a force in the beauty industry and a Forbes 30 Under 30 alumna, has shared that she will be having her “Beauty and the Beat” masterclass soon.

She has also shared some exciting details about what attendees can expect from the premium event, which she promises will be an exceptional experience.

Allegedly, the price for this masterclass in order for you to attend is R3,500 (three thousand five hundred Rand).

Wow, that is somebody’s entry-level salary, or at least a significant portion of many South Africans’ monthly income.

But Mihlali Ndamase believes in her fans and supporters, and she believes that they will show up, viewing the masterclass as a worthy investment rather than a mere expense.

In a promotional video, she enthusiastically reminded her followers: “Hey loves, just a quick reminder that Beauty and the Beat is literally just a week away.

Next weekend on Sunday the 23rd, I’m going to be hosting a masterclass at the Southern Sun in Rosebank.

Guys, you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to attend Beauty and the Beat.

Not to toot my own horn, but I feel like it’s one of the best masterclass experiences that you will experience in Johannesburg.

You’re getting tips from experts.

I’ll be announcing which other makeup artists will be present on the day.

You are getting a kit of makeup from Krice.

You get a meal.

There’s going to be music, entertainment, photos.

It’s a great opportunity for you to network and mingle with like-minded women.

So, if you guys want to purchase your tickets, then check out the flyer, text that WhatsApp number and secure your seat today before they sell out.

Can’t wait to meet you guys.”

Despite the promise of valuable content, a full makeup kit, networking opportunities, and a meal, the price point immediately sparked a wave of critical commentary on social media.

One user on the platform X (formerly Twitter) said, “Trying to pay shame,” clearly implying that the price is too steep for the average fan.

Another one said, “R3,500 rand per person for just that.

Ladies, your pockets are disrespectfully rich,” highlighting the perceived divide between the influencer’s target market and the wider public.

A third person had this to say, reflecting the wider economic anxiety: “Christmas is just around the corner.

A few days away, then January comes knocking at the door.

At a 3.5K makeup class, it’s even costlier.

Save it for varsity registration.”

The critic continued, offering some unsolicited business advice: “She will postpone again with new smarter influencers who are more relatable on the block.

It’s only wise she discounts the price by 50%.

Only Grace Msalame can pull this pricing off.

3.5K is too expensive.

She should have held it online and made it R350 per person.

That way more attendees.”

The suggestion of a digital masterclass priced at R350 per person is actually a great idea because there’s just less admin, you know, and also fewer complications with sponsors and all of that, making it accessible to a far broader audience.

However, according to Mihlali, the high price is justified because you’ll be getting quite a lot from this in-person masterclass experience.

The reported inclusions, such as a makeup kit potentially valued close to or exceeding the ticket price, food, and the chance to learn directly from top experts, are often cited by defenders of the price as making it a worthwhile investment for aspiring makeup artists and serious beauty enthusiasts.

In fact, past masterclasses from top-tier influencers and international brands in South Africa have often carried similar premium price tags, positioning them as luxury events for networking and skills development, not just basic tutorials.

Listen, I like Mihlali.

And if you’ve been on this channel, you should know that I really like her.

But this I do not agree with.

R3,500 rand, that is a lot of money, especially for a single-day event.

While I understand the cost of a venue, catering, and the inclusion of a high-value goodie bag, the price point excludes a vast portion of her fan base.

But hey, I’m not the target market.

And that is okay, right?

The masterclass is clearly aimed at a niche group of dedicated fans, industry professionals looking to network, or those with significant disposable income who value the brand and expertise of Mihlali Ndamase.

The debate, therefore, is not just about the monetary value of the goods, but the value placed on Mihlali’s personal brand and the exclusive experience she is offering.