I was raised in Zondi 2, Soweto by my mother and was fortunate enough to receive a high school scholarship and bursaries for my university studies. I had my first job when I was 15 years old, working as a waitress, a job I kept for 5 years. Working in the service industry, while in school at a young age shaped me, it made me resilient and taught the value of hard work.
Post matric, I studied for an honours BSc degree in Chemistry, this was followed by a diploma in Marketing Management and later an MBA from UCT.
I have had the privilege of working for a number of listed corporations in South Africa where I fulfilled various management and executive roles in business and project development, research and development, strategy, marketing and sales, strategic communications and investor relations. Even though I had a long career in the corporate environment, I always saw myself branching out as an entrepreneur. In 2018, I founded Isibani-ci, an investor relations and business development advisory firm www.isibanici.com.
My corporate roles afforded me many opportunities to travel internationally, and this gave me exposure to many global clothing brands. This helped me identify several gaps in the south African retail space, including the gap for fun and exciting activewear as well as tailored leisure/casual wear.
I am an avid runner, having completed two back-to-back Comrades ultra-marathons and passionate about health and wellness. My passion for health and fitness combined with my training, experience and skills gained from working for listed corporations in South Africa are key in ensuring the success of Athi Health and Fitness.
I founded Athi Health and Fitness in 2021, a dream/idea that has evolved and changed several times in the past 10 years as I tried my hand at several ventures. Athi is a fitness, lifestyle and experience brand inspired by my experiences, passions and travels. All our products are designed and manufactured in South Africa. We supply high quality, durable activewear for runners, gym, hiking and yoga fanatics as well as well-tailored leisure wear for all. We also offer bespoke and personalised service to those who need and require the service. The name Athi is my daughter’s first name, to my family it means we are grateful. As a brand the name ATHI stands for action, time, heart and informed:
ACTION “Do it now” | TIME “Redeem the time” | HEART “Passion” “Drive” “Courage” “Perseverance” “Resilient” | INFORMED “Insight” “Knowledge” “Empowered freedom” |
My hope for the business is that it becomes one of the key fashion brands in South Africa as well as the rest of African. The goal for me is to have a thriving, impactful and sustainable business, create employment and contribute to the growth of the country.
MSC EXHIBITOR – INFRONT OF WOOLIES 15 – 21 JUNE 2021