Lindo Dladla: Discusses Her Creative Business Journey
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On a recent episode of "Just Gospel," host Malefa sat down with Lindobose Dladla (who goes by "Lindo") to discuss her entrepreneurial journey and philosophy. Lindo, who lives by the motto "Own it. Exist on your own terms," shared insights into how she embraced her uniqueness and built a creative business alongside her mother.
Lindo's journey began at Valparque Artican, an art school where she initially studied visual arts before discovering her passion for graphic design. After continuing her education at Vega School for three years, she joined forces with her mother, who had a background in fashion design from VUT, to establish a family business.
The business, Smati Creative, specializes in branded merchandise like shirts, mugs, and golf attire, with Lindo handling the graphic design elements while her mother focuses on the fashion aspects. The interview revealed how they've grown from humble beginnings with just one machine to a thriving enterprise that creates various branded items.
Among the challenges discussed was dealing with difficult clients. Lindo explained how they implemented a crucial approval system to prevent expensive mistakes: "We don't proceed with anything without the client's approval." This strategy evolved after some costly early lessons when they would complete orders only to have clients reject them.
Lindo credited three sources of guidance for their business growth: her father, who runs a successful trucking business of 25 years and provided financial expertise; her small circle of supportive friends; and her faith. "God has really pulled us through," she noted, emphasizing how prayer sustained them during challenging times.
Beyond Smati Creative, Lindo revealed she volunteers her photography skills at church and is nurturing a new florist business venture. She also continues to develop herself professionally through online courses in business communication and leadership.
The interview concluded with Lindo highlighting the importance of giving back to the community and using one's skills for service, demonstrating how her business philosophy extends beyond commercial success to personal growth and contribution.
Lindo's journey began at Valparque Artican, an art school where she initially studied visual arts before discovering her passion for graphic design. After continuing her education at Vega School for three years, she joined forces with her mother, who had a background in fashion design from VUT, to establish a family business.
The business, Smati Creative, specializes in branded merchandise like shirts, mugs, and golf attire, with Lindo handling the graphic design elements while her mother focuses on the fashion aspects. The interview revealed how they've grown from humble beginnings with just one machine to a thriving enterprise that creates various branded items.
Among the challenges discussed was dealing with difficult clients. Lindo explained how they implemented a crucial approval system to prevent expensive mistakes: "We don't proceed with anything without the client's approval." This strategy evolved after some costly early lessons when they would complete orders only to have clients reject them.
Lindo credited three sources of guidance for their business growth: her father, who runs a successful trucking business of 25 years and provided financial expertise; her small circle of supportive friends; and her faith. "God has really pulled us through," she noted, emphasizing how prayer sustained them during challenging times.
Beyond Smati Creative, Lindo revealed she volunteers her photography skills at church and is nurturing a new florist business venture. She also continues to develop herself professionally through online courses in business communication and leadership.
The interview concluded with Lindo highlighting the importance of giving back to the community and using one's skills for service, demonstrating how her business philosophy extends beyond commercial success to personal growth and contribution.
