21-year-old Verwoerdpark resident brings on his own clothing brand to life

For some depression may only produce negative outcomes, but Ntando Ndlovu rose above such challenges to launch his clothing brand called LOVO in April 25.

He has since established his online store and has made about 16 online and offline purchases. He said his motivation was more than just his love for the business, but rather the message he wanted to share.

“I wanted everyone to know how I felt after going through such a rough time of my life. I’ve always suffered from depression from a young age, but it became hectic in high school because of challenges I went through at the time.

He said one of the ways he coped was to channel most of his emotions and thoughts into an art medium, which helped him to freely express himself.

“I went through a dark time emotionally and later got the help I needed. When you suffer from depression everything is unstable in your life. The idea of LOVO really started with a dream,” he said.

Raised by a single mother, Ndlovu told the RECORD that his brand is special.

“LOVO has a very authentic feel to it. It encourages its audience not only to dream big, but to turn their dreams into a reality, regardless of opposing circumstances and obstacles in life,” he said.

Young creative

Ndlovu works in an industrial fan company, juggling both his online store and his job.

In his upbringing, especially in high school, he was a quiet person. But upon completion of his matric in Alberton High School, there was a big turn in his life which led him to his destination.

Not only did he ace his studies in high school but he gained fame from his participation in the school’s football team. At one stage, he also played for the Alberton Football Club. He described himself as being creative, excelling also in basketball.

Upon completion of matric, he again enrolled at College SA where he initially studied electrical engineering, but his passion kept lingering. He then shifted his focus to start a clothing brand. Today he sees himself as an entrepreneur, model and film-writer.

The quality of his products, his mature view of things and his professionalism makes him stand out from most young entrepreneurs.

Target market

His clothing products are targeted to ages 13 to 50, both male and female clothing.
His unique brand has a lot to offer, from beautifully designed T-shirts, jackets, caps and dresses among others.

Logo

Symbolised by a club, or rather a tree and doves, the story behind his logo brings forward a life principle, that nothing can stop oneself from achieving their dreams in life.

“The future is the only thing ahead of you. LOVO wants you to remember the message behind the brand every time you rock your LOVO gear,” he said.

Unlike most brands, LOVO does not have meaning. The name was reportedly chosen because of its sound, as Ndlovu thought it sounded very futuristic.

Where-to-now

The future seems very bright for Ndlovu as he aims to further grow his clothing brand.

“My goal is to get good sponsors that will take the brand to the next level. For now, it’s an online thing, but one day I would really love to have my own logo shops. I’m also trying to get into Amazon to market because I want people to be recognised internationally,” he said.

He also provided tips for a successful business:

• Avoid unnecessary expenditure
• Setting realistic expectations
• Produce good quality products
• Professionalism

For more information, visit his online store on https://www.lovo.store/ or alternatively type lovo.store in your google search bar. For any queries, contact Ntando Ndlovu on 079 745 4250.