UJ students ready to transform the fashion industry

M’Africa launched in February 2014 with t-shirts and snap caps, and since then extended the product line with cardigans, sweaters and dresses.

“Initially, our market was university students in Gauteng, however, it has now broadened out to other varsities and provinces. We market our clothes on social media and through direct marketing. Our friends also act as our brand ambassadors,” says Dube, who aims to open a store in the near future.

Dube added that the advice on setting up one’s own company, improving career prospects, or developing one’s leadership skills is crucial. “Our endeavours would not have been possible if it was not for the exceptional lecturing staff at UJ, such as our business management lecturer, Mr Mohammed Kara, who have guided us to develop a new desire to pursue this venture.”

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Dube concludes: “Launching one’s own label is not so different from the tribulations faced by entrepreneurs in other professions. Well-known fashion brands started somewhere, why can’t we? M’Africa can be my life, and our current studies can only contribute to a successful business. One other thing I can share with my peers is, they shouldn’t only look as far as the tip of their noses, the sky is not the limit.”