Rebecca Angom started designing jewellery for pleasure, but when people saw and liked her work, she saw a business opportunity. Photo by Abubaker Lubowa
Destined calling: She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Library Science from UCU Mukono in 2012 but Angom has since chosen to make jewellery and decorate events as her destiny. Eseri Watsemwa writes.
What kind of job do you do?
I am a jeweller and events designer.
When did you start doing this?
I started last year. I used to make lots of jewellery pieces in my free time and when people visited, they loved every piece.
What is the name of your company?
It is nameless at the moment. I would like to establish myself first and develop a brand.
How do you manage two businesses at ago?
I operate the two concurrently. People call to give me events gigs and I work with the materials they give me. But making jewellery takes more time. I always design jewellery according to the client’s taste. A piece can take about a week to complete. It takes a lot of concentration to bring out something good or create a beautiful piece.
Who are your clients?
My clients are friends, friends of friends, and people referred to me. I make jewellery for young people and sophisticated pieces for older people.
Everybody else is making jewellery. What’s unique about your pieces?
My pieces always have an element of metal. It is classy and takes away the dullness that is in most jewellery pieces such as pearls.
What was your starting capital?
I started with Shs100,000 which I used for buying materials and equipment. I got a profit of Shs5,000 on each piece. This motivated me to carry on. Now my capital is Shs1m.
Where do you buy your materials?
I buy them from downtown. Sometimes I buy something with unique features. It can be a belt or jewellery created in a disorganised way and I dismantle it to create something beautiful.
How much do you charge for every piece?
I normally charge according to the market price. The necklaces cost Shs15,000, a set (necklace and bracelet) costs Shs25,000, while earrings go for Shs8,000. However, if a client needs something unique, then it can go up to Shs13,000.
What are your prospects?
I hope to launch my jewellery line. I want to make jewellery for fashion houses and also establish a shop somewhere.
How can people find you?
I am a call away – 0771900225.
