Entrepeneur, wife and mother Tanja Merlo Wobmann, founder of N3YH shares her love for South Africa and embracing the spirit of Ubuntu!
G: As a foreigner why start a business in South Africa?
N3YH: In the heart of South Africa, I discovered a love that ignited my entrepreneurial spirit. The people, the culture, and the vibrant energy captivated me six years ago during a fashion production. Embracing the challenges and seeing an untapped market, I started a sustainable active wear brand. The journey has been exciting and transformative, pushing me to set new standards of quality and professionalism. South Africa's dynamic business environment and open-minded community inspire me daily. This land of opportunities has taught me to embrace change and pursue my dreams with unwavering passion. To aspiring entrepreneurs, I say, follow your heart, dare to dream, and find your own inspiration in this beautiful nation. The rewards are beyond measure.
G: How do you navigate the production challenges that we face here?
N3YH: In the face of production challenges, I've learned the power of resilience and adaptability. While load shedding and strikes may pose hurdles, I've discovered that by planning ahead and preparing for the unexpected, we can conquer any obstacle. These challenges have transformed into opportunities for growth, and our team has shown remarkable flexibility in delivering on our promises. Embracing the spirit of innovation, we navigate through uncertainties with unwavering determination, proving that success thrives in the face of adversity.Together, we continue to achieve greatness, pushing the boundaries of what's possible and leaving a lasting mark on the world of fashion.
G: Your brand is described as Eco-Luxe fashion. Why was it important for you to create pieces that are made sustainably?
N3YH: Our brand embraces the essence of Eco-Luxe fashion with a determined commitment to sustainability. Creating pieces that are made with utmost care for the environment and society is not just a choice, but our passion. We produce locally, embracing a zero-waste philosophy, and ensure that every step, from sourcing materials to crafting the garments, aligns with ethical and sustainable practices. With every stitch, we infuse our pieces with love, quality, and a timeless charm that speaks to conscious consumers who appreciate fashion with a purpose. Together, we build a brighter future, one eco-luxe creation at a time.
G: Can you share your production process?
N3YH: Our production process is a passionate journey of creativity and dedication. We immerse ourselves in trend research, seeking inspiration from all corners of the world. Collaborating with our local factory, we bring our designs to life, selecting the finest fabrics and perfecting every detail. Embracing inclusivity, we work with fitting models of different sizes to ensure a flawless fit. Extensive product testing ensures our creations meet the highest standards. It's a journey that takes time, but with each step, we grow and evolve. Our commitment to sustainability and timeless elegance drives us forward, creating fashion that leaves a positive impact on the world. Together, we craft a future where style and consciousness walk hand in hand.
G: What makes your brand unique compared to others?
N3YH: Our brand's uniqueness lies in the exquisite softness of our materials and our persistent dedication to sustainability. Combining luxury and consciousness, we are redefining the concept of premium fashion. As a boutique brand, we invest love and care into every piece, staying close to our clients and valuing their feedback. Our small, passionate team embraces change and seeks inspiration from our customers' desires, creating fashion that not only feels great but also reflects their dreams. Together, we shape a future where elegance and sustainability unite to make a positive impact on the world.
G: How do you decide on your colour ways and prints for your pieces?
N3YH: Our colour ways and prints are a fusion of macro trends, inspirations from various sources, customer preferences, and my personal taste, resulting in unique and captivating designs.
G: As a female entrepreneur, mother, wife and friend, how do you manage the various demands that come with each role?
N3YH: As a female entrepreneur, mother, wife, and friend, my life is a tapestry of passion and fulfilment. N3YH is not just work; it's my true calling, and I relish every moment of this journey. Embracing my role as a new mom, I cherish the special time with my kids, ensuring a perfect balance between family and business. My husband's unwavering support and friendship add strength to my stride, while cherished friends enrich my life. By being fully present in each moment and avoiding distractions, I savour the beauty of every role. This exciting journey of love and ambition inspires me to strive for greatness in all aspects of life.
G: Do you have any self-care practices that you believe in to navigate your full life?
N3YH: Yoga has become my sanctuary as I firmly believe in the significance of self-care to navigate my life. I prioritise putting myself and my mental health first, understanding that doing so benefits not just myself but everyone around me. By taking time to centre myself, I can give energy and love wholeheartedly to others and my endeavours. Ensuring I am in harmony with myself is crucial to functioning effectively throughout the day. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet supports consistent energy levels, contributing to my overall well-being. Digital detoxes allow me to disconnect from the noise and find solace in silent walks, reinvigorating my spirit. Embracing these self-care practices empowers me to thrive in every aspect of my life and face each challenge with a sense of balance and peace.
G: As we celebrate Women’s Month can you share what this means to you?
N3YH: Women's Month holds a special place in my heart. I believe in the incredible power of females, and when we come together, magic happens. We are all goddesses, supporting and inspiring one another. Let's celebrate our uniqueness, exchange ideas, and lift each other up with compliments. There's room for everyone to shine, and when women support women, we create an unstoppable force of positivity and empowerment.
G: What are your top 3 places in South Africa that you’ve visited or experienced?
N3YH: Firstly, the winelands, where I currently reside, captivate me with their picturesque landscapes, hills, and nature. As a country girl at heart, I find comfort and inspiration in this serene setting. Plettenberg stands out for its awe-inspiring nature, where I indulge in horse riding, immersing myself in a unique atmosphere. Lastly, Cape Town's charm lies in its diversity of people and their remarkable sense of style. Interacting with a vibrant community of individuals with varying backgrounds enriches my experiences in this dynamic city.
G: Favourite South African foods?
N3YH: When it comes to savouring South African flavours, Bobotie and Roosterkoek are my go-to choices.
G: Lastly, what do you love most about our country?
What I love most about your country is the people's creativity, vibrant culture, and strong sense of unity. Each coffee shop is a unique experience, reflecting the country's diversity. South Africans embrace life with joy, coming together for braais and cherishing family above all. Tradition and values remain at the heart of their lives, inspiring resilience and love for their country. South Africa's spirit is truly remarkable, exemplifying warmth, unity, and pride amidst any challenges it.
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