Any design conscious parent in Africa knows how difficult it can be to find great, high quality children’s decor items for the nursery. But in Namibia, entrepreneur Beatha Shitemba, founder of Nels Babies, has the solution.
LoA found out more about this niche business that is winning new parent fans on the continent.
What does your company do?
Nels Babies is an online-based company which specializes in unique, custom-made children’s bedding and curtains. We offer a trendy Namibian alternative for boys', girls' or gender-neutral nurseries, for those who don't want to be confined by gender roles. The baby bedding is available in many different designs and can be modified to a customer's specific requirements.
"Nels Babies offers parents a trendy Namibian product alternative for boys, girls, or gender-neutral nurseries, for those who don't want to be confined by gender roles."
What inspired you to start your company?
Besides the gap which was in the market, our idea of venturing into business also came out of passion.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
What sets our children’s bedding apart are the patterns. Our fabrics are very different from what you can find in most of the other shops and our products are handmade with 100% cotton. We also keep abreast of the current trends in the industry.
"Our fabrics are very different from what you can find in most of the other shops and our products are handmade with 100% cotton."
Tell us a little about your team
We are currently a team of one. Most of our other functions are outsourced. However, we are looking into employing permanent staff to handle different aspects of the business.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
I do not come from an Entrepreneurial background at all. My dad was working for Namdeb and my mom was a clerical worker in the government. I’m currently still working full time. I have been in the banking industry for the past 15 years.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
We would to penetrate new markets outside our borders, and connect with more stockists and retail shops that can house our products.
"The thrill of establishing a brand keeps me motivated. The mere fact that ideas can become a reality is exciting."
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
The thrill of establishing a brand keeps me motivated. The mere fact that ideas can become a reality is exciting. It's rewarding being an entrepreneur. I’m driven by the possibilities of achieving financial independence and being able to make a difference in communities. It's not an easy task starting a business, but once the first step is taken, everything falls in place.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
Take that first step, it’s really what counts.
Contact or follow Nels Babies
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST | EMAIL beatha@nelsbabies.com
Why LoA loves it….
A great deal of success in the world of entrepreneurship comes from finding your niche, that business or industry gap in the market where you can make your mark. For Namibian entrepreneur, Beatha Shitemba, that gap was in the children’s nursery decor market. Today, her business is responding to the needs of design conscious new parents who are looking to create the most stimulating and comfortable environment for their precious new arrivals. It’s great to see these world class niche businesses finding their markets and building their loyal customer bases in key countries across the African continent. --- Melanie Hawken, founder and editor-in-chief of Lionesses of Africa