At just 23 years old, Yolanda Brown has already established herself as both an academic achiever and a rising force in the fashion industry. The founder and owner of renowned brand Just Creations, Brown will be participating in the Voice of Courage Fashion Show at Boardwalk Hotel and Casino tomorrow, 8 August, in support of Yokhuselo Haven, the region’s first shelter for survivors of domestic abuse.
Hailing from Joe Slovo in Gqeberha, Brown’s journey to fashion entrepreneurship is as inspiring as it is impressive. Armed with an Honours degree in Psychology from Rhodes University, she has masterfully balanced her academic pursuits with her creative passion, proving that success knows no boundaries.
Brown’s participation in the Voice of Courage Fashion Show stems from a deeply rooted philosophy inspired by the famous Xhosa principle “umntu ngumntu ngabantu”, a person is a person through other people.
“I am always inspired by this quote, and it has resonated a lot with my decision to be there for other people and be included in anything that is for the betterment of others’ lives,” Brown explains. “The fashion show is exactly that for me, and we aim to put a stamp of love on other people’s lives.”
For Brown, supporting survivors of domestic abuse is both a personal mission and a business responsibility. As a woman and small business owner, she feels a profound connection to the cause.
“Being a woman comes before my title of being a business owner, and most often than not, women are the ones who experience domestic abuse,” she reflects. “I can never erase the feeling of relating to the pain other people like me get to experience as a result of domestic abuse.”
Her involvement goes beyond mere participation; it’s about using her platform and resources to create meaningful change within her community.
The designs Brown will showcase at the fashion show reflect her core design philosophy: making women feel comfortable and beautiful in their bodies. Each piece serves as more than just clothing, it’s a statement of empowerment and encouragement.
“My designs are encouragement for women to feel beautiful and confident in themselves,” Brown states. “My participation in this fashion show is to show the survivors that they are not alone. They are seen and they are heard.”
When asked about her definition of courage, Brown offers a perspective that resonates with her own journey: “Courage means doing it even when you’re scared, shaky and doubtful of what you are doing, but pushing with faith and determination.”
Speaking to the Express, she revealed that she hopes her involvement will inspire others in her community to recognise that there are no limitations on showing support to one another. “There is always something that can be done, and so when one has an idea to help, they must surely implement it.”
To other entrepreneurs, Brown offers this powerful message: “I would encourage other entrepreneurs to show up and be active in opportunities like this. We are called to live out our purpose, and in the same way we would like to be seen and heard, other people need that from us. We are the answered prayer for many people, and that will take us owning up to our purpose and helping where we can.
