HAVING worked for 30 years as a seamstress, but first and foremost as a designer, Constance Kwanda is an expert in the field of dressmaking.
Originally, Kwanda aspired to be a teacher, but today she’s simultaneously a teacher, an artist, a networker and businesswoman all-in-one.
A self-taught and self-made woman, Kwanda had to make countless plans through the years whenever life’s loose strings threatened to unravel, but has remained humble and her down-to-earth character and comfortable presence makes it a pleasure to visit her workplace.
Among the rolls of fabric, pin cushions, scissors and sewing machines, Kwanda strikes a graceful figure. With her measuring tape hanging loosely around her neck, she talks about her artistry.
“I feel an immense sense of satisfaction when I see the final product of my creative handiwork on my clients. But, even more than that, I absolutely love it when I can lift my clients’ spirits through my work and give them back their confidence.”
For Kwanda, creating beautiful items goes hand-in-hand with instilling hope and cultivating inner beauty. Faith is an essential part of her life and it inspires her to use her business as an opportunity to build others’ self-esteem.
“In the same way I infuse new life and lost hope in garments, I want to bring self-worth where it’s been lost.”
Like everything else in her life, her business too is a labour of love. Working closely with her customers and building trust are very important to her.
“My clients come to me with their vision and it is up to me to make their dreams come true! Sometimes it’s not easy,” she smiles. “Many times I have to be a bit of a mind reader and interpret what my clients want.”
Using her technical and artistic skills, Kwanda uses strategic ways to tweak and adapt ideas, and recommend certain types of fabric for specific designs to make sure that her customers are happy.
“Even though my kind of work is time demanding, I always ensure that I am flexible and make time for my clients. I am always willing to help someone at short notice, in emergency situations. Many times, rendering a service goes beyond business, straight to the heart of a community.”
Collaborating with others by teaching skills, networking with other business owners and also engaging in manufacturing clothing on a slightly bigger scale, are ways in which Kwanda extends her business.
“Creating relationships is vital. I regularly direct my customers to other small industries, depending on what they need,” she says. “Word-of-mouth has always been my way of marketing. Quality speaks for itself, others always spread the word and God is ever faithful.”
These days Constance runs her business, Mitchellé Creations, from Richmond Hill’s Mackay Street. When she started up in Gqeberha in 2009, it was in the middle of the then up-and-coming Stanley Street.
“Stanley Street grew into a buzzing hub right in front of my eyes. Those were exciting times. Businesses worked together, supported each other, and referred clients. Richmond Hill is filled with people from different walks of life and various nationalities. This is one of the reasons why this area is special.”
Kwanda’s future dreams include her own clothing range, providing in-between sizes for people who don’t fit the standard clothing sizes.
“I love creating my own unique designs, and providing my clients a custom-tailored fit.”
As her business brain is always thinking of new ideas, her future plans also involve student accommodation and manufacturing corporate wear and school uniforms.
As I say goodbye to Kwanda, her cellphone rings yet again. Her day is filled with fittings, new and regular clients contacting her, and the soothing sound of sewing machines whirring in the background. I’m reminded of a quote, “Sewing mends the soul”. And it has never sounded more believable.
