Certainly, success does not have a timeframe. At just 17 years old, while simultaneously doing his matric, Utlwanang Mmeti finally opened the doors to his first footwear store in Midrand.
The Rustenburg-born young entrepreneur launched Dapper Footwear earlier this year and officially opened the store located at Midrand Space and Co Entrepreneur Village – Swart Drive, President Park on November 6.
Utlwanang said his success and achievement are a testament to all the children, that dreams do come true through persistence and hard work.
“This is for all the underdogs that were denied opportunities, all the children that were denied a slice of the cake, all those who were denied a seat at the table. We have built our own table now, and we have baked our own cake,” said Utlwanang.
Dapper Footwear is open to collaborating with like-minded people who share a common vision and goal of creating job opportunities.
One of the most important and goals to Utlwanang’s heart is to bring a lot of talented and ambitious people on board. “As we continue to grow, we want to create opportunities for footwear and apparel designers, graphic designers, photographers, store managers, influencers, general workers, and store assistants.
“We also have a sound system at the store, and up-and-coming rappers, producers, or any artist can bring their music in so that we can help circulate it to a wider audience when customers come in. I am all about supporting the underdogs so that we can rise together,” he explained.
He urges local residents, especially youth to support Dapper Footwear to show the rest of the world what local communities can do when they unite and support each other. “We are young, ambitious, and gifted entrepreneurs and we are coming for everything that we were told we can’t – in all the industries for that matter.”
He said the footwear will introduce all colours that people want in all sizes and also the kiddies range and more designs in the near future. A pair costs R999. “I would like to thank each and every person who has invested their hard-earned money by purchasing my sneakers, I appreciate this a lot,” he concluded.
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