I am Athenkosi Gexa the founder of Truth Gexa Designs, a South African clothing brand that blends ethnic and contemporary designs to create accessible African-centric streetwear. My journey into fashion began in in 2019 after facing challenges in the engineering job market. I taught myself sewing, cutting, and pattern making through YouTube tutorials, and officially established my brand on August 01,2020 registered my business in October 2020. Despite setbacks, including being evicted from my workspace and lacking sewing machines, my Athenkosi's determination led me to rent a space at a sewing project in Marcus Garvey and eventually establish my own manufacturing capacity. By December 2020, I began operating from my bedroom, and today, I'm proudly running a store at UWC Trade Market in Bellville, employing three individuals—a significant milestone in my entrepreneurial journey.

My accomplishments include winning 1st prize at the Bellville Expo in October 2024, securing 2nd place for the best business pitch in March 2022, being recognized as the Western Cape Best Fashion Designer at the Mzantsi Art and Media Awards in March 2022, and winning 1st place for Best Business Pitch in August 2021. I actively promotes the brand by wearing my products, collaborating with social media content creators, doing radio interviews, and participating in expos and fashion shows. My approach to customer service is rooted in respect, transparency, and timely delivery.

I draws my motivation from critical and creative thinking, I love coming up with new concepts—it ignites that spark and passion in me. My purpose is deeply tied to my personal experiences and the desire to create opportunities for others. As a proud father, I aspires to set a strong example for my son, instilling the values of hard work and dedication.

Three key pieces of advice for fellow entrepreneurs:
- associate yourself with individuals who share your values and have your best interests at heart, pursue work that ignites your passion, and have faith in the process.