I would like to say it has been smooth sailing for me, but that wouldn't appropriately describe the journey. However, I would say this: Perseverance & Commitment are the best weapons in your arsenal. As a Product Designer, you are trained to solve existing issues through design & concept and this more or less paved the way to launching Jo Black Craze. There was a significant gap in the market in regard to accessibility and affordability of Bespoke Apparel and to blow my own trumpet a bit, the amount of times people enquired about my outfits.
What were the biggest initial hurdles to building your business and how did you overcome them?
A Physical presence for the Brand was an issue but through Networking and Smart Working, this was resolvable.
What books are you currently reading? And your recommendation for entrepreneurs to read?
I am currently reading ''What they don't teach you in Harvard Business School'' by Mark McCormack. I would recommend ''Think Big'' by Donald Trump.
Did you ever deal with contention from your family and friends concerning your entrepreneurial pursuits?
How did you handle it? What would you do differently in hindsight?
NO, it was actually quite the opposite. At the time of launching My Brand, being an entrepreneur was not as easy as it is nowadays but luckily for Me, I had the support of Family & Friends, to be factual I had huge support which served as additional motivation.
What would you say was the single most influential factor in your business success?
Myself. Ensuring continuous growth in every aspect of My life has been very influential and impactful.
What do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started as an entrepreneur?
The grass will always be green, how green just depends on you.
What advice would you give to an upcoming entrepreneur locally and internationally?
The amount of work input determines the output.
