Zimbabwe has a reputation for producing quality handcrafted goods. But entrepreneur Felistas Pelagia Chigwaza, founder of Honex International Projects t/a SAGI Jewellers, is looking to build a legacy business that harnesses that creativity to produce accessories that local consumers and visitors alike want to buy.
LoA chatted to founder, Felistas Pelagia Chigwaza, to find out more.
What does your company do?
Under our brand, SAGI Jewellers, we create a beautiful, handcrafted range of accessory products including beaded handbags, clutch bags and wallets, beaded necklaces, earrings, bracelets and head gear. We also specialize in the design and production of semi-precious stone jewellery and keyholders.
“The natural quality of our wares is what makes us stand out as a brand, as well as the designs we create which come from within, hence living for a lifetime and beyond as a legacy.”
What inspired you to start your company?
Being a Creator, I am created in the image of the Almighty, Him being the Creator of all, hence the inspiration to show the process of creating and creativity.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
The natural quality of our wares is what makes us stand out as a brand, as well as the designs we create which come from within, hence living for a lifetime and beyond as a legacy.
Tell us a little about your team
It starts with me, Felistas, in my role as designer and teacher in the business, imparting my knowledge on the rest of the team and those to come. Success is the operations manager and is responsible for the production of our handcrafted wares as the designer.
“I have aspirations to open 3 branches of my business in Southern Africa in the next 3 years. I would also like to start a handcraft center.”
“Ultimately, I aspire to play my part in the economic development of Africa.”
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
My parents would always send my sister and I to sell freezits/penny coolers on the side of the road at a tender age. They would also farm as a means to pay for our tuition. Life in a rural set-up was not lavish, nor one to cherish today, but the experience embedded has shaped me to realize that I am the power behind my destiny.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
I have aspirations to open 3 branches of my business in Southern Africa in the next 3 years. I would also like to start a handcraft center. Ultimately, I aspire to play my part in the economic development of Africa.
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
Being a Creator, and having the ability to design and produce wares that have an attachment to me, as well as bringing out the prowess of creativity in women, whilst at the same time defying the odds of an industry like mining and handcraft industries.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
It's NEVER too late to start now and always look within your surroundings and start small.
Contact or follow SAGI Jewellers
WEBSITE | EMAIL fpchigwaza08@gmail.com
Why LoA loves it….
In a tough economic climate, the ability to create quality products that have both consumer and aesthetic appeal, is key to the success of any entrepreneurial venture. For Felistas Pelagia Chigwaza, her creative eye combined with her sales experience, is a winning combination. The resulting accessory product range is both eye-catching and of quality to appeal to those buyers who are looking for something different. Felistas is on a journey to build a lasting, sustainable company that can grow and make an impact. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo of Lionesses of Africa