Born and bred in Kwandengezi Durban Kwazulu Natal, Siyanda Myeni is the brain behind Emtwini sneaker brand - a new, anticipated and already on demand Mzansi footwear. Before talking Emtwini we asked the father of the “one year old beautiful twins” Oyikhokonke and Onakhokonke Myeni, also father to the 10 year-old Sinakhokonke Myeni about which Mzansi brand besides his own that he likes and why, this is what he said, “Bathu is one of my favorite Mzansi brands as I have lots of pairs from them already. Why? The name just says it all and I love how they infiltrated the market. Their shoes promote comfortability”.
Take us through your hustling journey – where and how did it all happened?
“It all started after I relocated as a teenager to Johannesburg in 2007 to follow my love for soccer. I remember playing for the University of Witswatersrand under 14 division and many teams thereafter. I later returned to Durban to further my studies in Information Technology and on completion I returned to Johannesburg to commence with my IT career as an intern, 11 years later I am now well versed in the industry”.
“2019 and 2021 I lost both my parents, but that did not stop me to embark on a new journey when I saw the gap in the market for footwear - July 2021. So, I started my shoe range with flops and as time progressed, I started working on sneakers”.
"I faced lots of challenges which came with starting a business, but despite the financial challenges and negative criticism from people, I remained true to myself and my passion. With hard work and determination, the Emtwini brand was formally established in 2022".
“The word Emtwini in Zulu (slang) represents “Within a person” this resonates with me because my dream for the brand is to be “Within” to infiltrate the South African footwear market. The sneaker range houses unique features such as criss-cross lace system, with a comfortable thick sole. Emtwini footwear boosts amazing quality and best prices. The logo signifies that no matter where you are you will always be “Within”.
Since he has revealed the designs of Emtwini Footwear the public has responded with such great love and are very excited and can’t wait to wear the sneakers.
Which brand/company would you like to collaborate with in future if chance is given and why?
“Bathu, because it is a very inspiring South African brand and creative at making something unique. I’ve also just imagined naming the collaboration “Bathu Emtwini” which means shoe within a person. This would make good sense”.
When can the public expect the sneakers to hit the market and what are the prices ranges?
- The Suede edition which is already in S.A and launching 1 October price is R1500,
- The Criss cross edition dropping End of October is R1500
- The Mpakamo edition dropping November will be R1200
- The Emtwini Flops with bright colours will drop December with a price range of R300-R350
Before our last question, how important is family to you?
"Family is everything to me, I make sure I have fun and have time with my family as much as I can, and honestly they are my pillar of strength".
Lastly, when not busy building your business, what do you do to unwind?
“I also work as an Independent IT Specialist, but to unwind I go to gym, (lift weights) go out with my wife and twins for lunch and drinks, go out with friends for a dance and drinks”.
For more updates, visit Emtwini Footwear social media platforms.