Primrose Chengetayi Mupunganyi-Mazongonda
Her business started as a way to pass off time during the Covid-19 lockdowns, but she has since mastered the craft; evident through her products which are well sought after. She makes various handmade crochet products, bringing designs to life; thereby providing joy to all those who use them. Like any other business, she faces challenges, but her strong determination has seen her striving to be the best. To know more about this young businesswoman, our reporter MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA (MBD) sat with PRIMROSE CHENGETAYI MUPUNGANYI-MAZONGONDA (PCMM) on this and more. Read on…
MBD: Brief background?
PCMM: I am the youngest in a family of six, and I grew up in Harare, Zimbabwe. My crochet business, Ngee Crafts, began as a surprise discovery. I had no idea I could crochet until I gave it a try. At first, I just wanted a relaxing way to spend my free time while making something nice for my family and friends. I started learning from video tutorials and, over time, got better and better. That is when I realised I could turn this hobby into something more. Today, I create unique, handmade pieces that bring joy to the people who buy them.
MBD: Childhood memories that can be linked to what you are doing now?
PCMM: Interestingly, my crochet journey was not influenced by any childhood experiences; instead, it came as a discovery I made in adulthood. Since then, I have dedicated myself to mastering the craft and building a business around it.
MBD: How did you start your business, and why this?
PCMM: I started my crochet business about four years ago during the COVID-19-induced lockdowns. At first, crocheting was just a hobby to pass the time while we were stuck at home. As I got better, I began making items for family and friends. They were the ones who encouraged me to turn my passion into a business. That is when I saw the chance to share my handmade creations with more people. I love crocheting because it blends creativity with usefulness. It makes me happy to see my designs come to life and know they will bring joy to the people who use them.
Primrose Chengetayi Mupunganyi-Mazongonda
MBD: What is the name of the brand and why that name?
PCMM: My brand is called Ngee Crafts. I derived it from my middle name, cheNGEEtayi. When I was a young girl, my father used to call me Ngee, and everyone at home followed suit. I grew to love that pseudo-name, and when I ventured into crocheting, I realised the need to brand my products using a unique, simple, and easy-to-remember name. So, I named my craft after that pseudo-name, thus, Ngee Crafts.
MBD: What are the products or services that you offer?
PCMM: I make a range of handmade crochet products, including, but not limited to, cozy ponchos, shirts, skirts, bikini sets, scarves, stylish hats, and house shoes (booties).
MBD: How has it been since you started?
PCMM: Since I started, it has been an amazing and fulfilling journey. I have connected with other crocheters who have helped me grow my skills and met wonderful customers along the way. I have also learned a lot about marketing, running a business, and even more about myself. Of course, it has not all been easy. One challenge I face is dealing with last-minute cancellations from customers. It is especially tough when I have already spent time and materials on custom orders.
MBD: How do you deal with the competition out there?
PCMM: Competition is a normal part of any business, and it helps us grow. I focus on standing out by creating unique designs that set my brand apart. I am also studying for a Diploma in Marketing with the Institute of Administration and Commerce (IAC), and running this business has helped me apply what I am learning, especially when it comes to handling competition with care and creativity.
MBD: What are your plans?
PCMM: My goal is to make Ngee Crafts a well-known and trusted brand with loyal customers. I also teach crochet to beginners, both in schools and privately, and I hope to grow that part of the business. I believe teaching others helps keep the craft alive and also improves my skills.
MBD: What is your driving force?
PCMM: My driving force is the joy and satisfaction I get from creating something with my own hands. I love seeing my ideas come to life through crocheting and knowing that my creations bring joy to others.
MBD: What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs who are in the same line of work?
PCMM: Let their passion for crochet guide their business. They should connect with customers, listen to feedback, and tailor their products to meet customer needs.
MBD: What are some of your career highs?
PCMM: I have had many repeat customers and referrals, which shows that my customer base is growing and becoming more loyal. I believe this is partly because of the quality of my products. These positive moments give me the motivation to keep going.
MBD: Away from crocheting, what do you do in your spare time?
PCMM: To be honest, as a crocheter, it is hard to completely switch off from work, considering that I also started crocheting as a hobby during my free time. Even in my free time, I often find myself scrolling through Pinterest for ideas, exploring new patterns, or checking social media to keep up with the latest trends.
MBD: Thank you for your time Chenge.
PCMM: You are welcome and thank you.
Other entrepreneurs who may want to feature on this profile, please get in touch on my mobile number +263777283907 or email munyabless@yahoo.com
