Startup Story
Alinafe Fridah Mapwesera is the founder of Nanas closet in Malawi, a business launched in 2014 and creating beautiful bridal dresses and other bespoke wear for those memorable wedding occasions. Customers have come to know Alinafe for creating beautiful wedding dresses that celebrate African culture and she sells her designs all over the world. She happily mixes elegance with different cultures in her designs, whilst always taking care of the environmental impact of her work which is important to Alinafe. For example, she gave away 100 dresses to kids made from old materials. Her work is about making things well, keeping traditions alive, and helping the planet.
LoA spoke to the creative Alinafe Fridah Mapwesera about her business, her love of designing for weddings, and her passion for building a sustainable brand.
What does your company do?
We make wedding dresses and other bespoke wear.
What inspired you to start your company?
I hail from Ndirande, a neighborhood known for its challenges with youth behavior in Malawi. Determined to make a difference, I pursued fashion design as a young girl to set myself apart and inspire others.
What makes your business, service or product special?
I'm recognized as one of the top bridal designers in my country. Initially, many doubted the quality of locally made wedding dresses. However, after witnessing the craftsmanship and quality of our gowns, we've attracted countless customers year-round. Our attention to detail and the use of premium materials from around the world set us apart.
“Determined to make a difference, I pursued fashion design as a young girl to set myself apart and inspire others.”
Tell us a little about your team
We are a team of four women and two men, united by a belief in women's empowerment. Together, we form a dedicated and resilient group that has weathered the highs and lows of business. Our team exemplifies excellence in customer service, working tirelessly to ensure satisfaction. I am grateful for their unwavering dedication and hard work, which fuels our success.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
My entrepreneurial journey was ignited by my mother's dedication to sending us to school. Before delving into fashion, I sold second-hand clothes to my school friends. With the advent of fashion design, I established one of the top fabric shops in the country, catering to fellow designers. Today, I've expanded my ventures with Moowe, specializing in traditional weaving baskets and African ready-to-wear clothing.
“My goal is to expand my brands globally and establish my fabric shop in all major cities of my country.”
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
My goal is to expand my brands globally and establish my fabric shop in all major cities of my country.
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
A happy and satisfied customer
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
Start where you are and with what you have. Advertise your small business and don't get discouraged. Someone, somewhere, is watching you, and one day you will be recognized.
Find out more
Email: alinafema@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fabuliciousworld?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/na_nas_closet?igsh=Z3g3NmQ0Mm5pYjNv&utm_source=qr
Why LoA loves it…
If you have a strong vision in business and you pursue it relentlessly, you are more likely to see that vision realised and success attained. Alinafe Fridah Mapwesera is definitely a woman entrepreneur with a vision and she is determined to make a difference with her business in the lives of others, and for those who work for her. Alinafe has business expansion firmly in her sights, and is gearing up for growth in a market niche where she is already making a name for herself. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo, Lionesses of Africa