Bravery Kabula
What started as a simple idea to launch a clothing brand has grown into a recognised media and design company making waves across the country.
Michael Shagandjwa, founder of YDM (YASHE DIGITAL MEDIA CC), began his entrepreneurial journey in 2019 with a strong passion for creativity and business.
Today, his company operates in fashion design, branding, printing and media services, working with both individuals and major corporate clients.
Shagandjwa explained that his motivation stemmed from a desire to showcase his creativity while filling a market gap.
“I was motivated by a desire to showcase my creativity and share my unique perspective with the world. I noticed a gap in the market for innovative products that reflect personal style and individuality. The drive to create something meaningful and impactful pushed me to take the leap into the media industry,” he added.
As the brand developed, Shagandjwa realised there was potential to do more than just fashion. He expanded into the media sector to strengthen storytelling and branding.
“As I gained experience, I recognised the potential to branch into the media sector to amplify my brand’s story and connect with a wider audience,” he said.
Today, YDM offers a wide range of services. These include fashion design, graphic design, interior and exterior branding, printing services, journalism, and the supply of printing equipment. According to Shagandjwa, his work focuses on modern aesthetics and functionality, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
Despite his success, he did not receive formal design training. Instead, he taught himself.
In addition to growing his business, Shagandjwa is also creating opportunities for other young people. He currently employs three young individuals who assist with design, marketing, branding and content creation.
“I believe in empowering young people and providing them with opportunities to grow within the industry,” he said.
One of his proudest achievements is how far, the company has come since its early days.
“When I started YDM, the engagement and recognition were very low. I started looking into ways to get my company out there by doing regular marketing and emphasising uniqueness. A few years later, YDM gained recognition countrywide, including corporate companies,” he said.
Since then, YDM has worked with organisations such as WWF, Nampost and the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia, among many others.
However, the journey has not been without challenges. Shagandjwa notes that competition in the media industry, managing finances and maintaining consistent quality while scaling the business have all tested him.
“Navigating the complexities of marketing in a digital age and keeping up with changing consumer preferences has required constant adaptation,” he added.
As a student entrepreneur, balancing academic and business responsibilities also demanded discipline.
“Balancing my studies and business was challenging, but I learned the importance of time management and prioritisation. I created a structured schedule that allocated specific time blocks for studying, working on my business and personal time,” he said.
His message to fellow youth is simple but firm.
“Embrace your passions and pursue your dreams with determination. Do not be afraid to take risks and learn from your failures. The journey of entrepreneurship is not always easy, but perseverance and a willingness to adapt can lead to great rewards,” he urged.
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