Local young entrepreneur’s long wait to footwear launch and desires in the market
"I believe that the market is as big or small as one perceives it to be," says Mswenko Footwear founder Kabelo Selekolo.
From running various businesses such as selling books, and watches, running an online magazines, and developing websites and logos for small businesses, Kabelo Selekolo wants to focus on his latest venture, Mswenko [Stylish] Footwear.
Selekolo (32) originally from Rustenburg, but currently in Halfway Gardens in Midrand, says the idea of Mswenko Footwear began in 2014 when he had his first job. He was raised by his aunt and uncle and his background in entrepreneurship includes selling cold drinks, beers, and snacks.
In 2010, Selekolo moved to Gauteng to study Information Technology at Tshwane University of Technology and has since moved around for different jobs.
“I found myself buying a new pair of sneakers every month [because I was now working]. And as someone who enjoyed jogging in the evenings, I wondered if there was a type of stylish and versatile shoe that I could wear for both sports and casual occasions,” said Selekolo.
“At the time, I could not find anything that met my needs. Due to my limited knowledge of the fashion industry and difficulty in raising funds, I let the idea fade. However, in recent years, I saw people who looked like me creating their own shoe brands, which motivated me to revisit the concept of a versatile sneaker from 2014 onwards. I officially began researching and developing Mswenko Footwear in December 2021, and the business was launched on October 18, 2022.”
Selekolo said after 10 months of research and samples, the product they are selling now is the fourth sample they have received from manufacturers.
He said the process leading up to the launch was challenging as there was no way of funding the business, limited research, and samples.
“Since the launch, it has been great. The feedback from our existing customers has been positive and we are beginning to see demand from new customers as well. I believe that the market is as big or small as one perceives it to be. We are a small player compared to big brands like Reebok and Nike, but what will set us apart is how we position ourselves in the footwear market. By offering a wide range of high-quality products, I believe that African footwear brands have the potential to dominate the market more than overseas brands.”
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