Online shopping has gained popularity all around the world. Years ago, consumers had no other choice but to shop at malls and face crowded parking lots, long queues and rather rude fellow shoppers or even salespeople.
The rise of cellphone and online banking as well as payment apps has assuaged many fears the public had about sharing their personal information online.
While there’s always a risk of being scammed, security features have improved drastically so more people are open to retail therapy online.
One of the brands eager to tap into this market is Ravenda Posh, a Namibian online store that stocks women’s clothing and accessories. It is owned by fashion model Rahab Inghalwa, who has graced catwalks both inside Namibia and further afield.
Inghalwa says that despite the increase of online clients, some consumers are still concerned about the security of their banking data online.
“There are still a lot of people who don’t trust online shopping. I would advise anyone considering it to first do proper investigations. Some businesses are only there to rip people off so please be aware of fake businesses.”
The Onamunhama-born fashionista says the key to the success of her business has been the offline payment options she offers.
“Clients can order online and pay cash upon pick-up. This allows more clients to trust in my business. I would advise people to start shopping online, because it saves you a lot of time. You don’t have to go from one shop to the next looking for something. With online shopping, you know what’s in stock.”
Ravenda Posh caters for those aged 16 to 50 and Inghalwa says many people like her clothes, because they are trendy. According to the model, they are perfect for those who want to stand out from the rest.
The store’s stock is sourced from Los Angeles and the United Kingdom. From next week on, Inghalwa will be adding men’s clothing and decor to her business.
“I wanted to do menswear a few months back, but I had other commitments. Now, I am finally ready. All the men who have approached me for clothing will be pleased about this,” she tells The Weekender.
The 26-year-old feels that working in the industry has not been easy because of competition. However, it has been a learning experience since she started Ravenda Posh last year.
After the inception of her online store, Inghalwa has met many new people and gained more experience. She has also learned the importance of hard work and confidence.
If anyone wants to succeed, she says they must be consistent and know what their clients want. “If you don’t give people what they want, they will definitely look for it somewhere else. Also, good customer service is key. No one is willing to pay for bad service.”
Before Inghalwa opened the business, she modelled and walked the ramps at London Fashion Week. She has also been featured in fashion magazines in the UK. “I took a break [from modelling] to start my business here in Namibia. It is important for me to have a plan B. I won’t be able to do modelling forever.”
Modelling is one of the greatest passions near to her heart, though. “I do like looking good all the time. Working in the fashion industry, you are always updated about what’s trendy. As a model, you meet fashion designers, models, stylists, make-up artists and hair stylists. They have taught me a lot and I am willing to share with others.”
In the past, Inghalwa held modelling workshops in Windhoek as well and assured the industry “created wonderful moments that will always be treasured”.
As for her personal life, Inghalwa says her beloved grandmother who raised her is her role model. “My parents left me with her because they went to work in the city. She always made sure I was taken care of and not harmed in any way. She knew how to make me smile. I want to become just like her.”
In the next five years, Inghalwa plans to do bigger things in the fashion industry and create opportunities for others as well. “I would like my business to grow so I can employ people and hopefully expand outside Namibia.”
For more information on her products, visit ravendaposh.com.
– @rineldamouton on Facebook and Instagram
Movies or soapies: Soapies
Likes: Shopping and perfumes
Dislikes: Fresh milk and bananas
Favorite drink: Red wine
Favorite Namibian artist: Gazza
Favorite colour: Anything bright
Favorite actor: Idris Elba
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