By Selloane Ntshonyane
- Soweto designer Siphiwe Seme turned unemployment into success by starting a clothing brand now worn by music stars.
- Covid-19 gave Seme the push he needed to grow his brand, starting with face masks before expanding to a full clothing line.
A Soweto clothing designer has hit the big time with local celebrities buying his brand “Soweto Design”.
Siphiwe “Papkies” Seme’s casual clothing line has caught the eye of music stars like Vetkuk and Mahoota, Sphe and Naives, Trey, Lokki and Robbs, and Saso.
Seme started his company in 2013, inspired by the late South African rapper and music producer Linda “Pro Kid” Mkhize.
“Pro’s music took me out of a dark place. When I was unemployed, my frustrations grew daily. Sitting at home doing nothing frustrated me and deep down I knew my purpose in life was bigger than me,” said Seme.
He found work and studied marketing at Unisa at the same time.
While Covid-19 forced many businesses to close, it gave Seme his big break.
“The biggest break was in 2020 when I completed my degree. I felt I needed to use my time wisely. The bug bit me, the revival of the brand came about and we started off with 60 ‘Soweto Design’ branded masks,” he said.
Seme used his salary as a digital care manager to fund his business. He later quit his day job to focus on his brand full-time.
He sells sweaters, hoodies, jerseys, t-shirts, caps and tracksuits. Some t-shirts carry messages like “Stick to the plan, not your mood”, “Be inspired Soweto” and “I have no special talent but God”.
The brand also makes custom items for customers who want their own designs.
Seme grows his business by selling at markets and events.
“To keep up with the brand’s marketing strategy, I attend as many markets and events as possible, like the Cresta night market, LEVELS and The Grand Hookout, which is an annual event,” he said.
“Soweto Design has funded my company, the GreenBanner Marketing Agency,” he added.
He uses this company to market his clothing brand and handle event collaborations.
Pictured above: Siphiwe “Papkies” Seme.
Image source: Supplied by Siphiwe “Papkies” Seme
