Fashion business uplifts Monamati
The love of fashion and clothing turned the young fashion designer, Dimpho Monamati into a successful entrepreneur after she struggled to go to school due to lack of funds and a job. Her company, Dandy DIY Designs specializes in tailoring ladies’ clothes such as dresses, blouses, skirts and many others with various modern patterns. Currently, she is operating from home in Bobonong. “I chose this business because I love fashion and I realised it is a profitable business and I can be able to find money to further my studies,” said Monamati. In an interview with the Business Trends, Monamati said starting up the business was not easy for her as she did not have startup capital. She borrowed money from friends and relatives to buy machines and fabrics. “I was so determined to start, and despite lack of money in my pocket, I found a way. I bought two machines and fabrics with the change, and since then I have always had customers,” said Monamati. There is a lot of demand for her products because she produces unique designs and very fashionable clothes for women. “The market is very good, I have never lacked customers since I started in 2017 and in most cases the demand is always higher than the supply. Sometimes I am not able to take orders because I would be overloaded with work,” she said. Currently, she is working alone and she is planning to expand and employ other young people. She is in the process to apply for the Youth Development Fund this year. The 24-year-old Monamati said through the profits she has been able to sponsor her studies at Gaborone Universal College (GUC) and has a certificate in Purchasing and supplies.“I have heard a lot of criticism from people, trying to discourage me but I have made my mind. With all the disadvantages they told me, I would always find a solution to any challenge,” said Monamati.