Chronicle Editor
Stanford Chiwanga, [email protected]
IN the dusty and pothole infested streets of Bulawayo’s high-density suburb of Pumula East, where small boys once played football with passion, a young woman named Nyasha Angelica Rwatirera has emerged as a game-changer. From her humble beginnings in the neighbourhood, her story is an inspiring tale of determination and success in the world of football kit merchandising.
Growing up, she witnessed young boys in the streets, taking off their tops for identification while they played soccer. Some of those boys went on to become professional players, and this left a lasting impression on Nyasha. She saw the potential in the football kit industry, especially as organised academies and schools began to replace street football. With this vision, she saw an opportunity to supply high-quality football kits to the emerging institutions.
“In my suburb, soccer was more than just a game; it was a way of life. Back then, I saw young boys identifying each other by taking off their tops to play. Some of those boys went on to become pros, and that left a deep impression on me. I knew there was potential in the football kit business,” she says.
Her path was not without its challenges. Initially, Nyasha struggled to be taken seriously in a male-dominated industry. Starting capital was limited, but her determination was boundless. Eventually, she secured a loan from a supportive friend, which allowed her to meet the growing demand for her products.
“I had to work twice as hard as my male counterparts to prove myself. I want to see more women involved in football that is why I make sure I don’t disappoint my customers. I want them to see that women are as good as men.”
What sets Nyasha apart in the industry is her unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. She ensures that orders are delivered promptly and exactly as requested. If customers are dissatisfied, she goes the extra mile to make it right, even at her own expense. Nyasha’s customer-centric approach doesn’t stop there; she actively engages her clients by offering samples and flexible payment arrangements tailored to their budgets.
“I believe that customer satisfaction is key. One happy customer is a moving advertising board. If I make you happy, the next thing your friends will call me to buy their favourite team’s jersey.”
Nyasha recognises the importance of women’s involvement in football, advocating for the inclusion of women in football club structures.
“What men can do, we can also do. I was happy to learn that the Zifa Normalisation Committee wants to appoint a woman as CEO. That is commendable and welcome. Women are naturally builders,” she says.
One pivotal moment in Nyasha’s career came when she supplied a football kit to a local club. Since then, she has become their perennial supplier, providing training kits, tracksuits, t-shirts, and more. Her online presence is notable, constantly exploring different brands of kits and studying successful clubs’ attire for inspiration.
To those who doubted her ability to deliver quality products, Nyasha proved them wrong. Her story is a testament to her resilience, as she continues to surpass expectations and expand her business. Looking ahead, Nyasha remains optimistic about the future, with plans to recapitalise and broaden her marketing efforts.
“This industry puts food on my table. I don’t go around begging. I don’t rely on anyone. I am a self-made woman, thanks to football,” she says.
Apart from football kits, Nyasha also offers training equipment such as bibs and soccer boots. At the age of 25, she is a young entrepreneur who is already making waves in the industry. She completed her secondary education at Northlea High School, and from a young age decided that she wanted to be self-employed.
“It takes dedication, passion and the right support system to make it. I have had people who have helped me and I am pushing myself hard. My motto is where there’s a will, there’s a way,” says Nyasha.
— @plainstan
Online Reporter