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From Job Loss to Fashion Empire: Obert’s COVID Comeback

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As the entire world grappled with the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Obert Kure suddenly found himself unemployed after losing his job as a travel consultant.

As he pondered his next move, the young and determined Obert chose to consider the challenge before him an opportunity to start a new chapter and take firm control of his life’s journey.

“Despite facing many challenges, including losing my job during the COVID-19 pandemic, I took a leap of faith and started Dissoti Ricci Apparel in 2021. Throughout my journey, I have been driven by a desire to empower young people, promote sustainable fashion, and challenge stereotypes,” explains Obert.

Four years later, Obert stands tall as a rising young Zimbabwean entrepreneur making a name for himself at the helm of a company that specializes in handmade clothing and shoes that embody both sophistication and elegance.

Seizing the Opportunity

Born on June 8, 1998, in Zimbabwe, Obert remembers growing up with a passion for creativity and self-expression.

“After completing my diploma in Travel and Tourism with IATA, I began my career as a travel consultant. However, my innate sense of style and attention to detail led me to pursue fashion after losing my job.

“I started Dissoti Ricci Apparel in 2021, driven by a passion for fashion and a desire to challenge the status quo. I identified a gap in the market for high-quality, unique, and sustainable clothing that catered to a diverse range of customers.

“Our company is headquartered in Zimbabwe, and we specialize in creating handmade shoes and clothing. Currently, our team consists of dedicated individuals who share my vision for sustainable fashion and empowerment.

“As a niche player in the smart casual wear market, we have focused on providing confidence-boosting clothing for everyone, regardless of body size. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability has resonated with our customers, and we are proud to be making a positive impact in the fashion industry.”

Evolving Business Landscape

Since he started Dissoti Ricci Apparel, Obert says the business landscape has undergone significant changes, particularly in the fashion industry. This is largely because the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift toward online shopping, leading consumers to become increasingly conscious of sustainability and social responsibility.

“To stay ahead of the curve, I prioritize ongoing learning and professional development, ensuring that I am always up-to-date on the latest trends and innovations. I also encourage a culture of innovation and experimentation within our company, empowering our team members to think creatively and develop new solutions.

“Furthermore, we have adapted our business strategy to meet the changing needs of our customers. For instance, we have invested in e-commerce platforms to enhance our online presence and cater to the growing demand for online shopping.

“We have also emphasized sustainability and diversity in our branding and marketing efforts, resonating with customers who share our values.”

Overcoming Challenges

As an entrepreneur, Obert has faced numerous challenges. However, instead of succumbing to pressure, he has taken each obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. This attitude has helped him find meaningful solutions that see him emerging stronger.

“Indeed, my entrepreneurial journey has been marked by several challenges. One of the most significant obstacles I faced was losing my job during the COVID-19 pandemic. With only US$65, I had to start Dissoti Ricci Apparel from scratch.

“Navigating the uncharted territory of entrepreneurship, researching consumer trends, and adjusting our business strategy to meet the changing needs of our customers were significant hurdles.

“However, these challenges taught me invaluable lessons. I learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and innovative thinking. I also realized that taking calculated risks and embracing failure as a learning opportunity are essential for growth and success.”

Obert also learned to prioritize his passion and values, even in the face of adversity. By staying true to the company’s mission of promoting sustainable fashion and empowerment, Obert and his team have built a loyal customer base and established themselves as a reputable brand in the industry.

Enjoying Successes

Along the way, the milestones Obert has achieved at the helm of Dissoti Ricci Apparel have fueled his desire and passion to forge ahead with his entrepreneurial journey. He identifies the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion as a major achievement that sets them apart.

“We recognized that the fashion industry often neglects to cater to diverse body types, and we wanted to challenge this status quo. By offering shoes and clothing in a wide range of sizes, we have been able to provide confidence-boosting clothing for everyone, regardless of body size.

“This initiative has resonated deeply with our customers, and the overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received is very encouraging. We are proud to have made a positive impact on the lives of our customers and to have contributed to a more inclusive and diverse fashion industry.

“Furthermore, our focus on sustainability has enabled us to reduce waste and minimize our environmental footprint. We are fully committed to creating timeless pieces that can be worn repeatedly, reducing the need for fast fashion and its associated environmental harm.”

Empowering Young People

Besides his duties at Dissoti Ricci Apparel, Obert is passionate about empowering young people and promoting sustainable fashion practices. This is anchored in the belief that education and entrepreneurship are key drivers of economic growth and development, particularly in Africa.

Obert is also taking steps to broaden his horizons by continuously improving his educational qualifications.

“I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management with Midlands State University, which has not only enhanced my leadership skills but also deepened my understanding of the business landscape.

“I have also been working closely with international travel companies, and I will soon engage local ones for collaboration in my efforts to revive my other business interests in the tourism industry, where I previously worked.

“My advice to small businesses or entrepreneurs looking to enter the fashion industry with limited resources would be to stay focused on their core values and mission. It is essential for them to identify a niche or gap in the market and cater to it.”

Bright Future Ahead

Obert’s eyes light up with excitement when he explains the growing trend toward sustainable fashion and the increasing awareness of the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry.

As someone passionate about promoting sustainable fashion practices, he is convinced this trend has the potential to drive positive change.

“In terms of innovations, I am interested in exploring new technologies that can help reduce waste and improve efficiency in the fashion industry. Regarding upcoming events or projects, we are currently working on expanding our e-commerce platform and increasing our online presence.

“We are also exploring opportunities to collaborate with other sustainable fashion brands and influencers to promote our shared values.

“To minimize our environmental footprint, we provide our customers with expert guidance on the special care and maintenance of select materials through our dedicated “Care and FAQ” sections on our website and social media platforms.”

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