My name is Wesley Magura, I’m a graphic designer and I also run a customised clothing company called Wes Magoo Apparel.
What are you most passionate about in life?
Art! I see art in everything and I’ve been passionate about it since I was a kid when I’d do sketches of cartoons in my school books.
What characteristics would you say one needs to be a successful entrepreneur?
Passion, the ability to adapt and above all, patience!
How did Wes Magoo come to be?
The name started in primary school when my friends would poke fun at me and call me the popular cartoon Mr Magoo’s nephew because I had loads of sketches of him.
What inspired you to become a designer?
I grew up loving art and making sketches of anything that caught my eye. As I grew up I resolved to find a way to make some of my art works digital.
Of all the designs you have done so far, which one is your favourite and why?
I can’t say I have a favourite, but my logo is pretty cool. It took me 5 years to come up with the final design.
What is your greatest achievement in life so far?
Wes Magoo Apparel (Pvt) Ltd. It took a lot of lows for it to come to be.
Who are the rocks in your life?
My mum. She’s always been very supportive, even when I felt like giving up she always told me that things take time. She was right, she’s always been right.
What is the one thing you can’t live without?
My laptop. I carry it everywhere!
Which three people would you say inspire you in your career and in life?
Brett Van Rooyen, founder of Faith Wear. Kudakwashe Juta of Avo Apparel and Tatenda Jakarasi of Munch Zimbabwe. These are all great Entrepreneurs who started small.
Who is your favourite designer and why?
Kudakwashe Juta, founder of Avo Apparel, he’s amazing at illustrations. Most of his designs are out of this world.
What keeps you motivated during the low moments in your life?
The fact that I’ve been through worse and still made it.
Describe a typical day in the life of Wes Magoo.
I wake up around 7 am, make a to do list. Make one or two designs then get ready for work. I open shop at 9 and spend the day either sorting clothing orders, delivering stuff or in meetings. We almost always finish work after 7pm and this is the routine for 6 days every week.
What is the biggest lesson that you have learnt in your career and life so far, that you
wished you knew sooner?
Patience! I’ve learnt that good things take time.
What is the soundtrack to your life?
Ndoda More by Takura.
It’s relatable. I have this hunger that stemmed from knowing I can achieve anything.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I’d like to expand my business and become one of the biggest clothing manufacturers in the country.
What are you most fond of about being Zimbabwean?
We’re a peaceful and loving nation.
How can people get in touch with you?
Calls, WhatsApp +263719157004.
Twitter @WesleyMagoo/ @wesmagooapparel
IG: @wesleymagoo and @wesmagooapparel
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs and designers trying to make their mark?
Never give up on your dreams and be patient. Always have a plan and a backup plan!
