Chronicle Editor
Sipepisiwe Moyo, [email protected]
The recently concluded Esteemed Business Women event in Bulawayo showcased the innovative products of women in business. The event featured various stalls displaying fashion designs, bead-made necklaces, bracelets, and more, highlighting the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the participants.
One stall that captivated attendees was that of Angeline Chipiti, who travelled from Harare’s Waterfalls suburb to present her unique products made from recycled cassette tape. Angeline’s collection included skirts, hats, waistcoats, shoes, handbags, and flask holders, all crafted from old cassette tapes.
Her innovative use of materials and the intricate designs drew significant attention, with many attendees eager to try on her creations.
“I work at a private hospital in Harare and started making bags, skirts, decorating birds, and shoes during the Covid-19 lockdown. I began as an experiment to occupy my spare time when I wasn’t working. The encouragement from people around me helped me grow from there,” she said.
Despite facing initial criticism and skepticism, Chipiti persevered. She recounted how some people looked down on her work, telling her to stop behaving like someone who was unemployed.
However, her determination paid off when she started attracting clients, including those from the Indian community.
“People used to despise my works, as the tape would leave my hands dirty when knitting. Some even told me I was just an addict of sewing and knitting and that I would get nowhere with these products. But I held on and continued knitting.
“Then, I started to get Indian clients, which made my superiors stop me from knitting at work,” she said.
Her perseverance has paid off, as she now has a growing customer base and increasing interest in her products. Many women resell her items in Botswana, and her products were widely appreciated at the event, including praise from Minister Monica Mutsvangwa.
“The money I make from selling my products helps me halfway, as I am able to buy essentials for my children, like books for school,” Chipiti shared.
Attending the business conference provided her with a valuable opportunity to showcase her products to a diverse audience, including women from across the country and the diaspora.
“I am pleased and greatly motivated by this event as I got a chance to showcase my products. I met up with powerful women who encouraged me to do more, and I feel I’ll be going higher from here. I’m also grateful to Sipho Mazibuko for organising this event. May God bless her,” she said.
Online Reporter