Lifestyle

Kasi: A street wear-inspired clothing line

2 2
2

One of those that have hit the local market and taking centre stage is Kasi, a new fashion brand strictly inspired by streetwear. Kasi has become an instant hit, especially among the youth. In an interview with the brand founder, Tebogo Mabotenyane also known as Enzo The Photographer, he said his brand was driven by his love for streetwear.

He explained that he grew up obsessing over streetwear brands like Fubu and Trukfit. These are brands that popped up in Southern Africa and made a mark. “I believe it was for one reason, it felt close to home. So I wanted to create a brand that resonated with us as Africans. A brand that feels close to home. 'My target market is everyone who resonates with the word Kasi. The response from the public about to this brand has been nothing short of amazing, both locally and internationally. What makes my clothing line tick is the authenticity as a lot of people relate to it. My career line is actually business entrepreneurship, Kasi is just one of many businesses I own,” he said. Furthermore, he pointed out that he could not say how his brand was different from other brands but said the feedback that he got from the people was that it resonated with them more than compared to most brands. His brand is signature, kasi - “It’s a lifestyle.” Mabotenyane said his brand started operating in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic era.

Amongst all his merchandise, he said he loved the Kasi graphic T-shirt the most because it took him three months to complete saying he had put a lot of work in it. He added that the merchandise is sold online adding that they also have a physical Stall at the Gaborone Rail Park. To ensure that he delivers quality products, he picks the material to work with and also tests it out before mass production. However, he said the challenge they faced mostly was that there are few options when it comes to materials to work with hence they find themselves using the same materials as other brands. He also said he would love to see his brand selling internationally in the near future. “I own a media company and it has not been easy balancing it with managing the Kasi brand. I still do not have them balanced out. My advice to aspiring fashion designers is for them to be authentic. Kasi is a local brand and only the local people can help us grow and reach the international level hence why we work with a lot of local talent and help them grow as that will also help us grow market-wise,” he ended.

Enzo is from Hukuntsi hence there is a lot of support from the Kgalagadi region and he embraces that support proudly. “We also have a lot of support from Maun, Francistown, Letlhakane, Gantsi, Tsabong, Hukuntsi, Zowa, Palapye and looking forward to reaching more places,” he said.