So as you all know I love to support local and started a segment where we could share, learn and inspire! It is so important to support local and share your findings with others.
During lock down, we are going to do a whole lot of these to highlight these businesses – many of which are taking HUGE strain during this time – and shed some awareness and love to all.
I discovered the most divine local business selling lovely colourful hand made clothing and accessories for your little ones (mostly girls), and they all look comfy and so beautifully made. I love the colours and patterns, and so will you! So I would like to introduce you to KuNa Kids. Please follow them on Facebook and Instagram, they would appreciate the love! 100% designed and made in South Africa, they are a business to support. From skirts with tulle, to jackets to baby grows to dresses, to tshirts – you name it, KuNa makes it!
We chatted to the lovely Shingai and she had this to say! (This is her below – isn’t she stylish?!!)
Please tell us a little about your business and your products?
KuNa Kids is a clothing and accessories brand that makes clothing and cute things that are bright and bold with an African twist. We provide something unique, new and fun, with a distinct yet modern African identity, unlike big-box department stores. We cater for mostly girls and love to make cute twirly things.
You opened your own business – How does it feel to be a business owner that loves what they do?
Kuna is 11 years old! But it feels like the first year every year as there are we have new brand new challenges to overcome all the time. Over the years I’ve also co-founded a consultancy to help other creative businesses navigate their first years in business called Creatively Connected. I’m blessed that I have a chance to go on these journeys with new vibrant African businesses.
What are the top 3 learnings you have had to find out the hard way since starting your own business?
Never stand still or think you’ve figured it out. Always plan to succeed and remember, nothing stays the same.
Always grow your networks and be willing to help other brands along the way, even if they are your competition, the market is big enough to accommodate us all
Be willing to take time out and explore other facets of yourself, being an entrepreneur can be all-consuming and stressful and it is important to stop and reassess your goals often to make sure you’re still happy, otherwise. What’s the point?
Where do you see your business in 5 years?
That’s hard to say during a time of corona! What will the world look like in 5 years? All I know for sure is KuNa will be stronger than it Is today and will remain adaptable and profitable.
What is your advice to individuals out there wanting to start their businesses but are too scared?
Get started! Make something ! Fail! Learn! And repeat till you win. But you have to start. I guarantee no business starts with the perfect product and all the answers. But they started anyways. ( in if your stuck, get help)
Tell us 2 things that are the BEST part about owning your own business and make it all worthwhile?
Most entrepreneurs would say not having a boss. I think that’s incorrect, all my customers are my new bosses, keeping me accountable, innovative and busy. Id say the best parts of entrepreneurship is building something from nothing and watching my creations give genuine joy to my customers
How has lockdown affected you?
I went into lockdown after having taken a small break post-closing the physical store in 2019. I was re-looking at the business and was ready to relaunch Kuna in March 2020.
Like everyone, we came to a screeching halt and took the lockdown time to observe the market and rethink how to relaunch. But that’s ok, luckily my customers are amazingly supportive and patient!
KuNa will be back and fully operational online for summer, and we are taking orders and requests via our social media accounts!
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