July is Men’s Month, a time to celebrate the male species, men who are making strides in different walks of life.
Tinashe Zano is one such man. An epitome of success, who took a leap of faith by changing careers and launching the sneaker brand, NSpire.
The chartered accountant changed gears to follow his creative dream. He said the love of art, sneakers and accountancy nudged him to merge his two interests to pursue sneaker-making as a career.
He enrolled for a sneaker design and manufacturing course online at the Complex and New York Fashion Institution.
Said Zano: "During my seven years in accounting, I always enjoyed the analytical and detail-oriented nature of my work. I also have a creative side that I wanted to explore more. Sneakers have always been more than just an item to me, they are a form of self-expression and art.“
His experience with learners who lacked something as basic as a shoe, drove him not only to establish NSpire, but also ensuring that for every five pairs of shoes sold, NSpire donates a pair of school shoes in partnership with Samaritan FeetSA.
"My brand and focus on sneakers stems from my experience at a rural primary school, where many children lacked shoes. Witnessing them borrow shoes, not having access to basics like using the toilet, left a lasting impression. In response, I pledged to make a difference (in society)," said Zano.
NSpire is an online store which currently has sizes 3 to 8 in stock nationally.
One of the biggest challenge, Zano said, was acquiring funding to start his business: "I used my savings to start the business. Being an accountant helped me. No one funded me on these projects, especially since the factory required full payment before production.“
Following in the footsteps of sneaker maker, Theo Baloyi of Bathu, Zano sees himself collaborating with other acclaimed brands and cementing his brand presence to reach a global niche market.
"I see myself as an innovator and expanding my brand in the footwear industry using my expertise and creativity. My goal is to establish NSpire as a leading name in the sneaker market known for its unique designs, quality craftsmanship and cultural relevance.
"I am also interested in collaborating with influential athletes, who resonate with our brand's value of innovation, style and cultural relevance. I would also like to partner with a fashion designer known for their futuristic designs, which could help elevate NSpire's visibility in the global market," said Zano.
Saturday Star
hope.mafu@inl.co.za