Andrew Wagoloza
For Andrew Wagoloza, the foundation was laid at a younger age, so when the opportunity to invest in a business came, he did not look far from fashion. Two years on, Wagoloza is counting profits.
What kind of business do you run?
I am a fashion designer dealing in African fabrics. I chose to specialise in African fabric because it is full of life, attractive, trendy, and I love to be identified with it.
What is the name of your business?
It is called A1 Fashionz.
Why did you choose to invest in fashion designing?
Fashion runs in my family. My mother was a tailor, one of my elder brothers is the head of fashion and design at YMCA, Jinja branch and my sister is a fashion designer.
When did you start fashion designing?
I started in 2016 after two years of job searching. I thought of something I could do with ease. After a year of starting however, I lost my workshop to robbers. I spent 2017 working in my rented room and I used to market myself online. I opened a new workshop around November 2017.
Did you go to school to better your skills?
I graduated in 2014 with a degree in Procurement and Logistics Management at Kyambogo University. I had some knowledge on tailoring but at the back of my mind I knew fashion and design is an art.
I researched on how the industry works and I try to surround myself with fashion people to get new tips.
How much did you invest in this business?
I invested Shs3m, and I used Shs2m to buy sewing machines, I paid three months’ rent of Shs600,000 and used the rest to buy a few materials. The money was savings from my internship and part time job at Baba FM in Jinja.
How much do your clothes go for?
The price ranges according to the type and value of African materials but on average they go for as low as Shs25,000.
Where is this business located?
We are located in Kitintale on Port Bell Road.
What achievements do you have to show from this business?
I have made friends from low class to high class, I pay all my bills and for my sister, who I work with. Since the industry is developing at a very fast speed, it will soon pay highly to those who invest in it.
Is it a unisex business?
Yes it is. We make outfits for the two sexes and all ages.
What challenges do you face doing this business?
High taxes from authorities, high rent fees, low capital and the low currency value affects us on pricing.
How much profits do you make from this business in a month?
In a month I can make profits of upto Shs400,000, although business has good and bad months.
