The Entrepreneur Zone
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Steve Reid chats to Paul Whitehead, founder and creative director of Major John, a bespoke South African lighting and furniture brand based in Cape Town about 'Building a Winning Mindset'
Steve Reid, a seasoned entrepreneur with 20 years of experience, holds multiple degrees and qualifications in business coaching. He authored "Entreprenacity" and excels as a speaker and facilitator in the field.
About Major John
Founded in 2014 by Paul Whitehead while he was in his third year of architecture at the University of the Free State, Major John began as a passion project with a simple vision: to create beautifully handcrafted products. The brand's first collection consisted of distinctive wooden bow ties, carefully made in Paul's parents' garage and sanded by hand outside his university residence between lectures. His mother played an equally important role, sewing the fabric straps and hand-stitching every bow tie with care. From these humble beginnings, Major John has evolved into a respected South African brand offering a range of premium genuine leather accessories, handcrafted aprons, and striking concrete and timber lamps. Every product is meticulously crafted using the finest locally sourced leather and wood, reflecting a commitment to quality and sustainability. Inspired by the timeless principles of the Arts and Crafts movement while embracing contemporary design trends, Major John creates distinctive pieces that are both functional and beautifully made.
Steve Reid, a seasoned entrepreneur with 20 years of experience, holds multiple degrees and qualifications in business coaching. He authored "Entreprenacity" and excels as a speaker and facilitator in the field.
About Major John
Founded in 2014 by Paul Whitehead while he was in his third year of architecture at the University of the Free State, Major John began as a passion project with a simple vision: to create beautifully handcrafted products. The brand's first collection consisted of distinctive wooden bow ties, carefully made in Paul's parents' garage and sanded by hand outside his university residence between lectures. His mother played an equally important role, sewing the fabric straps and hand-stitching every bow tie with care. From these humble beginnings, Major John has evolved into a respected South African brand offering a range of premium genuine leather accessories, handcrafted aprons, and striking concrete and timber lamps. Every product is meticulously crafted using the finest locally sourced leather and wood, reflecting a commitment to quality and sustainability. Inspired by the timeless principles of the Arts and Crafts movement while embracing contemporary design trends, Major John creates distinctive pieces that are both functional and beautifully made.
