Founder of online footwear store FunkyFlorals SA Nompumelelo Mahlangu chats to us about her business. By Fundiswa Nkwanyana
I’ve loved shoes for as long as I can remember. As a teenager, I used to buy cheap shoes at second-hand shops. I found some gems, and my collection and love affair with them grew. The more I bought shoes, the more I became knowledgeable; this went to a point where I even started a business.
I resigned from my job as marketing manager to pursue a career in retail. It was challenging to juggle a full-time job while pursuing my passion project after hours. My heart was in growing my business and building my brand.
I sell comfortable and unique shoes. As someone who suffers from swollen feet, I make sure that all the shoes are comfortable. Selecting them is easy because
I look for a design that speaks to my soul, and that will captivate my customer’s interest. I love shoes that are conversation starters and leave people with the wow factor.
Running an online store has its advantages. I love that we live in a digital era. This gives me an opportunity to sell to a wider audience, and my clients shop from the comfort of their own spaces. I love the freedom that my business gives me as
I don’t have to be office-bound. The only challenging part is that my products are manufactured abroad, so I often experience delivery delays.
I’m glad that I turned my love for shoes into a business. Finding a niche market and focusing on building my brand has yielded positive results. I love what
I do, and I’m looking forward to growing my business.
