Entrepreneur Trendsets in Uganda

Article by Dinfin Mulupi

Jo Nganda is the founder of Jozy’z boutique. She created an opportunity in the fashion retail industry and is now a proud entrepreneur.

Nganda, who studied Marketing and Management in England, decided to invest in Uganda fashion retail after realizing that there were no shops in Kampala stocking the latest fashion items. Today her store stocks the latest women and men’s wear, accessories and shoes.

Jozy’z Boutique has for the past 4 years ensured that Ugandans keep abreast with the latest fashion trends and the feedback from the community has been amazing,” says Nganda.

Before starting out, Nganda carried out market research to understand the market needs. Today Jozy’z boutique is in good business thanks to social networking and the store websites.

The Jozy’z brand is very much in the young fashion category. The boutique targets 16- 34 year olds customers who are trendy, chic and fashion conscious. The strength of the boutique lies in stocking affordable and unique products.

I go to great lengths to ensure a robust buying process. I handpick all the items we stock. My test is simple, in that if I can’t wear it I can’t sell it. I believe in selling quality and affordable clothes. I also listen attentively to what the customers want” she says.

To maintain loyalty in her clients she interacts with them as she would with her friends.

We offer a much personalised approach and really understand that every client is unique. This has enabled us get more clients through referrals from satisfied customers,” she says

Her motivation lies in ensuring that the market gets access to the latest fashion trends. Positive feedback from her customers impressed by her products and service is a driving force for Nganda during challenging times.

To grow the capacity of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Uganda she says it is crucial for the Government to offer training for entrepreneurs and make access to financing easily available. This, she says, will do much to address the high failure rate of start ups caused by entrepreneurs lacking expertise and limited access to funding.

Photo Courtesy of Jo Nganda