hadithi za KNOB Digital- ‘Every stitch tells a story,’ the story of Kazdo, Founder of Tafkam Designs
In honor of International Women’s Day, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable journey of Kadzo Mudzo, a passionate fashion designer whose determination and hard work have shaped her success. Her story is proof of the power of pursuing one’s dreams and never giving up, even in the face of challenges. Join us as we go into the inspiring narrative of Kadzo and her thriving brand, Tafkam.
Her love for fashion design blossomed during her high school years when she first envisioned herself creating beautiful garments and making a mark in the fashion industry. After completing her education, she wasted no time pursuing her dream. In 2014, around May, Tafkam was born—a brand that would soon become synonymous with creativity and elegance.
“While in high school, I studied home science, which was among the things that helped me learn about different things, one of them being making clothes and designing them. I learned how to use colors, shapes, and fabrics. This was one of the first steps that helped me fall in love with art and design.”
Tafkam holds a special significance for her. The name is a blend of Tafari (the son), Kadzo, and Mary, symbolizing her journey and her dedication to her craft. It represents a fusion of tradition, identity, and creativity, all woven into the fabric of her designs.
KNOB DIGITAL is inspired by Kadzo’s story and commitment to continuous improvement. As the leading digital marketing company in Kilifi and the coastal region, we strive to emulate her dedication to staying current and adapting to change to provide the best service to our clients. Kadzo’s ability to collaborate and innovate serves as a shining example for us at KNOB DIGITAL, motivating us to push boundaries and think outside the box in our work. We are proud to support Kadzo and Tafkam in their journey to success in the fashion industry.
While Tafkam initially found its roots in Mombasa, near Jose Kijiji, her unwavering ambition led her to venture further and relocate to Kilifi around 2016. This move marked a new chapter in her creative journey, as she sought to expand her horizons and connect with a new audience. The Kilifi community welcomed her with open arms, embracing her work and recognizing her talent. Her first shop was in the Titanic Building, then she left for Mtondia. It was at that time that two of her designers had left her (one went back to Mombasa while the other went back to his family in Tanzania). It was during Corona, and business was not doing well, and most of her clients were complaining about Mtondia being too far. The distance was a problem, so she had to relocate to somewhere close to town, which was Gakala. After relocating to Gakala around 2022, business started to pick up. Eventually, she secured a shop along the roadside near Kavenya in 2023.
“Any business close to the road always gets new walk-ins.” She says.
Currently, she works with a great team that includes a manager, various designers, and marketing staff. They all work together to make sure the business runs well. The manager leads the team, the designers create amazing designs, and the marketing team helps get the word out. Together, they keep everything running smoothly and help the business succeed. Their target market consists of young professionals seeking versatile and ethically-made clothing for both casual and formal occasions.
“You need to invest in your business; spend money to get money.” So, even if someone comes in here, I tell them the dress goes like this, to stitch it’s this amount, they will look at it and say, it’s worth it,”
Kadzo’s success can be attributed to her unyielding work ethic and her commitment to constant improvement. Her workspace is proof of her dedication, showcasing her passion for her craft and her desire to deliver nothing but excellence to her clients. She consistently invests in herself, seeking out opportunities to enhance her skills in stitching and sketching, to provide top-notch service to her clientele.
“Everyone wants what’s trending; I have to be well conversant with what is trendy, and sometimes I have to borrow ideas from my fellow designers.”
Kadzo understands the ever-evolving nature of the fashion industry, where trends shift rapidly and markets fluctuate unpredictably. To stay ahead of the curve, she actively engages with fellow designers like Masha, exchanging ideas, insights, and inspiration. By keeping her finger on the pulse of the latest trends, Kadzo ensures that Tafkam remains at the forefront of the fashion scene.
In the face of challenges, her advice is simple yet powerful: prayer and seeking guidance from those who have walked the path before you. She emphasizes the importance of humility, learning from others who have achieved success, and always striving to do better. This approach has served her well, guiding her through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
As she continues to carve her path in the fashion world, her sights are set on a bright and promising future. She remains steadfast in her commitment to self-improvement, eager to further her education and refine her skills. Kadzo’s ultimate goal is to serve her clients with unmatched creativity, style, and innovation, setting the stage for Tafkam to flourish and leave a lasting impact on the industry.
Her journey from a high school dream to a thriving fashion brand is proof of the power of perseverance, passion, and dedication. Through hard work, innovation, and a commitment to continuous learning, she has established herself as a formidable force in the fashion industry. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let her story inspire us to chase our dreams relentlessly, embrace challenges with grace, and build a legacy that resonates with authenticity and creativity.
“In every stitch, there is a story waiting to be told. Let your creativity be the thread that weaves together your dreams.” Kadzo
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