Meet the designers on Chivas Venture x A Grade with Zaid Osman | Lindiwe Modiselle

ICYMI, The Chivas Venture is back with a bang. With a refreshed format that aims to make a big difference in local communities, the Chivas Venture is no longer a competition. Instead, cultural leaders will work with upcoming young talent to both nurture their skills and provide unique opportunities.

Grassroots community initiatives run by the go-getters of the world will be at the forefront of the new Chivas Venture, with success and generosity blending together as one. Unapologetic go-getters who hustle hard for their success will thrive under the close watch of relevant and local mentors – a process that will kickstart their careers and cultivate a strong sense of social responsibility.

Now we’re turning our attention to some of the designers to talk streetwear, participating in The Chivas Venture x A grade, and to get their advice for up-and-coming designers. Check out our conversation with Lindiwe Modiselle below. And be sure to keep it locked here because we’ll be talking to Zaid Osman.

What has your journey been like, being a freelance creative?

My journey as a freelance creative has been challenging but fruitful and the lessons that I’ve learned have made me an even stronger person. I used to find it difficult to speak up because I didn’t know how valuable I am and as creatives we tend to doubt ourselves a lot resulting in us not knowing our worth which runs the risk of being exploited. My journey so far has taught to never shrink myself and stand by my work.

What do you enjoy most about thrifting?

What I enjoy most about thrifting is how cost effective it is. I’m honestly a cheapskate and it makes me happy I can look good while living within my means.

What are some of the challenges you face in a startup?

 The main challenge that is ever recurring is money a start-up needs money but I’m proud that I’ve been able to bring my brand up again with the little I have.  I believe when you have certain resources and people around you that are willing to help you out it truly does make a difference and lightens the burden a bit.

The industry is dominated by men, as a woman what are some of the challenges you face?

I feel like the challenges I’m facing with my brand have nothing to do with my gender but have everything to do with being an entrepreneur in general. I don’t focus on the fact that there are more men than women in the industry but more so where I want to see myself amongst everyone in this growing industry. And if my hustle becomes a success I hope whoever is watching is inspired to never give up on pursuing their passions.

What inspires you most about Zaid Osman?

What inspires me about Zaid is his humbleness and hustler mentality. He doesn’t wait for opportunities to knock on his door he goes out there and gets them.

According to you, what are the skills that are necessary for becoming a successful fashion designer?

To be honest, I wouldn’t know because I do not consider myself a fashion designer but more so a creative director. I bring all the creative aspects when it comes to Selle but I have people who assist me in bringing the garments to life.

I believe anyone can be whoever and whatever they want to be. Whether they studied fashion or not it all boils down to,  whether or not you want it as much as you say you do. Skills are important and we all learn differently I’m personally learning along the way the people I meet and immersing myself I’m the garment making process.  My advice : give in to the trial and error  process that’s where you learn the most.

You mentioned that the goal for Selle is to not just be a T-shirt line but a fully-fledged streetwear brand, how do you plan on achieving this goal?

I want Selle to be more than just a t-shirt line and I believe I’m well on my way to achieving my goal I’ve already made items such as shorts , hoodies , shirts. The catalogue may grow but for now I’m focusing on streetwear essentials.

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