Behind the beautifully evolving fashion and streetwear brand Kasi Line, is an inspiring serial entrepreneur by the name of Mxolisi Jwara. The amazing Mxolisi, who is the founder of Kasi Line has proven to be a tenacious entrepreneur with an unwavering vision. Hailing from Durban but currently based in Johannesburg, Mxolisi has built his brand from the ground up, facing challenges head-on and never losing sight of his ultimate goal – to create the number one streetwear brand in Africa.
It is worth noting that Kasi Line has come a long way since its inception eight years ago. From a simple seed of an idea, it has grown into a thriving business hub, offering marketing solutions, manufacturing, branding, and retailing of street-smart, trendy apparel with a unisex appeal. Mxolisi, originally from the resource-limited rural community of Harding, had only three resources at his disposal: determination, prayer, and vision. With these ingredients, he set out to change his own destiny and create a lasting legacy for his children and those who would cross paths with him through business.
In a recent conversation with Mxolisi, he emphasized the importance of taking the time to build a strong brand before launching it into the market. He acknowledged the risks involved in rebranding and the potential disconnect it could create with loyal customers. However, this setback provided him with a valuable opportunity to find the right stakeholders to collaborate with, from web designers to clothing manufacturers and beyond.
While Kasi Line is currently based in KwaZulu-Natal, Mxolisi envisions expanding his brand's presence to Johannesburg as part of his ambitious growth strategy. Inspired by the stars he admired on TV, such as Mzambiya and Mandoza, who wore their own branded clothing, Mxolisi aims to empower youth in townships and rural areas, showing them that they too can create their own brands and proudly wear their own designs.
Throughout the journey of building Kasi Line, Mxolisi faced the challenge of finding suppliers who could meet his specific requirements, particularly when it came to fabric selection. His unwavering dedication to uniqueness and quality has made his brand stand out in the crowded streetwear market. Mxolisi's commitment to staying true to his vision is truly commendable.
In 2019, Mxolisi took a bold step back to rebrand the business and develop a comprehensive strategy to reach a broader audience. Unfortunately, the timing couldn't have been more challenging, as the COVID-19 pandemic struck, disrupting the entire business landscape. The launch of the new strategy was delayed, and sales plummeted due to a lack of marketing. Just as Kasi Line was preparing for a resurgence, the unfortunate unrest further setback the brand, resulting in the loss of valuable stock. However, Mxolisi's unwavering belief in his brand kept him pushing forward.
When he's not busy shaping the Kasi Line brand, Mxolisi finds solace in networking and surrounding himself with fellow entrepreneurs who inspire and stimulate his ideas. He firmly believes in the power of networking and its crucial role in the success of any business.
Mxolisi Jwara's journey with Kasi Line is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in one's vision. As he continues to grow his brand and inspire others, Mxolisi’s legacy will extend far beyond the realm of fashion. Kasi Line is not just a clothing brand; it is a symbol of empowerment and possibility for the youth of Africa.