Star Style – Rubicon Founder, Hangwani Nengovhela
Rubicon founder Hangwani Nengovhela has been mastering her fashion design skills for 16 years
Fashion house, Rubicon, has become synonymous with timeless and sophisticated designs. The fashion label's founder and creative director Hangwani Nengovhela prides herself in leading a team focused on top customer service. She chats to us about celebrating 16 years in the industry:
Why did you become a creative entrepreneur?
My love affair for creating clothes started from a young age. I was privileged to have a mother who ran her own fashion design business, so I learnt from her.
What do you believe has sustained Rubicon for 16 years? I have a great team and a failproof business system. I've also maintained good relations with stakeholders and my customers. How are you celebrating this huge milestone?
I'll continue making great clothes and dressing queens. How has the fashion industry changed over the past 16 years? The design and creative sector has grown, and access to markets has increased. It's a pity, though, that fabric mills in South Africa have closed shop. This has made it very difficult to source quality material at an affordable price. What's the best business lesson you've learned through Rubicon? That staying true to your design aesthetic is essential for maintaining brand awareness. Being an entrepreneur is a journey that requires constant reflection. I am never comfortable with where I am — I always want to improve.
What is your ultimate goal with Rubicon?
I want to leave behind a legacy for my family.
Where does the inspiration for your creations come from? I draw inspiration from nature and cultural landscapes. How else, besides social media, do you build and maintain your network?
Customer service is of the outmost importance in my line of work and this, from my experience, takes the lead in building lasting relationships.
What makes Rubicon different from other fashion labels? The big R for Relationship is what sets us apart. Our clients are the most valued aspect at Rubicon.
Which book or person has influenced your growth and success?
Invisible Supply by Joel S. Goldsmith.
If you could live anywhere else in the world, where would that be? Milan, Italy.
What is the most wonderful thing that's ever happened to you? Winning the Mbokodo Award for fashion and innovation, and also being part of the National Skills Development programmes. How do you think personal lifestyle choices affect young black women pursuing the entrepreneurial dream you are living? Early childhood development is crucial to identifying skills. Access to mentorship programmes that will give a realistic and practical picture of the fashion industry is also key. Describe your personal style.
Everything I design comes from envisioning myself wearing the garment. My style is a fusion of classics and modern designs that marry nostalgia.
What are some of your favourite things that make life sweeter? Rooibos tea with honey, my fragrances as well as traditional Venda food.