Twenty-three-year-old student at the University of Namibia (Unam) Kishi Festus Natangwe started his ‘Through thick and thin’ clothing brand three years ago to meet his parents halfway in paying his rent and taxi fare.
Natangwe told VIBEZ! that ‘Through thick and thin’ was established in 2018 because he wanted to make extra income, and also for the love of being an entrepreneur as he always dreamed of being one.
He said the brand name means under all circumstances, no matter the difficulties, do not give up. The brand was established to raise awareness for people, urging them to continue fighting and working hard, no matter the situation they find themselves in.
“It is the awareness behind the brand that makes me see a good and hardworking environment in the future. I believe Namibians will be inspired and have a fighting spirit in them. I see myself inspiring many and making good money, which will be used for personal essentials,” he added.
Natangwe said being a student is not easy, “therefore, you should invest the little money your parents give you so that you meet them halfway.”
The money he normally gets from his clothing brand is used for his groceries and taxi fare to school.
“Start-up capital and targeted customers were the main challenges. But I started the brand with the savings of the pocket money from my mother. It was not easy to rent in Windhoek; I started this brand to encourage myself and the community to never to give up in life.”
He added that after some good marketing strategies, people got to know his clothing line and it caught attention.
“Today, I have five people who get paid for helping me sell the brand to targeted customers, and this is creating job opportunities for Namibian citizens.”
“Life will throw multiple situations at you, and your friends may not even help you overcome them. However, this does not mean we should give up. Fight your battles – even on your own – but the light at the end of the tunnel will always be there.”
Natangwe is based in Oshakati and can be found on Instagram @ through_thick_and_thin_brand. – fthamalwa@gmail.com
Branding to success… Kishi Festus Natangwe, wearing his brand.