Designer who believed in herself

When Carol Wambui Gatimu quit her career as a computer engineer, from a leading firm in 2004, to go into the fashion industry, friends were opposed to her move. They believed she was bound to fail due to stiff competition in that industry.

The mother of two had a burning ambition to start her own business with money she had been saving.

She started her own design house known as Carol Design at Jericho Market; from a capital of Sh30,000.

She now owns a business worth more than three million shillings, with a monthly turn over of Sh400,000.

Most of her clients are from hospitality industries and companies with workers who need their clothes and uniforms designed.

“I knew that I would succeed in my own business and make good profits. I had confidence in myself and that has helped me a lot,” says Wambui while at her business in Jericho Market Nairobi.

She says that she started sewing at home at a tender age because her mother owned a sewing machine.

“Sometimes when I came back from school I used my mother’s machine. I knew that I had a passion for the fashion industry.

“People tried to discourage me from engaging in this business, I listened to them but, I knew what I was doing,” she says.

She says that determination, hard work and support from her family members boosted her morale.

“Sometimes one cannot succeed if family members and friends don’t support you in the business.

“The business also requires patience especially in a situation where people try to discourage you,” she says.

Ms Gatimu remembers that before moving to Jericho market, she used to make clothes at her home and sell to customers in various offices.

The customers liked the unique way she made the clothes thus the interest grew each day resulting in more customers.

“It was tough but I never gave up. My good negotiation skills always helped me against competition from other business people. I was confidence that I had an opportunity to explore my talent.

In addition to clothes, Ms Gatimu makes casual bags, jeans and belts that she sales to her customers in Nyeri and Nairobi.

She says that some people especially working ones believe that chamas are not good for them but the must know that chamas are good and that they can boost one’s business.

“I belong to chamas in the estates where members contribute 5000 each that has also been part of success to my business.”