Afroclothier back in business

Amanda “Afroclothier” Ntoyi is back where she belongs; behind her machine. Born and bred in Zwelethemba, Amanda is no stranger to many Zweletans as some of her designs have turn her into a household brand. After completing her studies in Clothing Management from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in 2006, this 35-year old was one of those who were directly affected when the clothing & textile industry collapsed and many got retrenched. When she started her sewing business back in 2008, she just had the skills and passion for sewing, but no experience or guidance on how to run a successful business, which is what led to its failure to become profitable.

In 2010, the business was de-registered and on the other side she had to find other means of income. When she returned back home in 2011, she joined the First National Bank (FNB) as a Sales Consultant. Two years down the line another opportunity availed itself at the Sun International hotel where she became a receptionist. “This is where I learnt more about excellent client relations and what it means to be professional at all times” she said. Due to a high demand of her designs from local and outside clients on social media, Amanda deemed it perfect timing for her to revive her business and grow her brand.

In 2016, she resigned and this marked the rebirth of Afroclothier as a legal entity. With the assistance of Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), Amanda is confident that nothing is going to stand in her way to success, despite challenges such as lack of funding and having proper equipment. “Since I re-started the business two years ago, it’s not has been an easy journey but I might have my big break soon - I must just be patient” she adds.

In her bit to plough back to the community, each year on her birthday she gives out gifts to those who are less fortunate. Nonkulelo Old Aged Home/Centre (NOAC) and Vuk’uhambe Disabled Centre (VDC) are some of the community centres she visited since she started with this Social Responsibility Initiative (SRI) back in 2015.