VANDERBIJLPARK. – While some people are weeping in a corner, pitying themselves and blaming others for their situation, there is a woman who has decided to stand up and do things for herself. Iris Khosana of Iris Exclusive Jewellery, based in Vanderbijlpark is a woman with a vision. She started the company in 2014 and to date they have trained 180 women. In other words they have created jobs for almost double the amount for women in the area.
The women were trained in both manufacturing and trade.
“In a year the company expanded to manufacturing and distribution. We manufacture jewellery and supply to various local hotels and shops, Bon Hotel Vaal and Bon Hotel Midrand, Lord Signature Hotel, Farmhouse Delight Coffee Shop, Heidi’s Bistro and So Bling Hair Salon are some of our customers,” Khosana says. Our target is to own 20 jewellery display stands in Vaal by November 2015. “I am humbled to say my company is the first black-owned company to sell its products in local hotels.”
Khosana’s company coordinates monthly ladies breakfast meetings to showcase their latest designs and to promote their products. They also take advantage of exhibiting their products at various events.
Khosana says that by the grace of God, the company keeps growing as they have recently launched ‘Iris Perfume.’ Iris Perfume has a unique essence and it is already available in local shops. They have also launched Iris Exclusive Collection which sells exclusive imported clothes, shoes and bags.
In October they will be starting Millinery training which is training to manufacture exclusive hats and fascinators. Their objective is to make Iris Exclusive Collection a one-stop shop for all the needs of an ‘Exclusive Woman.’ “My passion is to empower people, impart skills, create jobs, alleviate poverty and finally make a difference in people’s lives,” Khosana ends.
