Dare we even say the words
Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in December of last year, there have been over four hundred thousand cases of this flu-like virus – around the world. We have seen it shatter every corner of the globe, like a glass hitting the floor. We have been disrupted by something much larger than the human race, bigger than man’s ego, more gigantic than industries or money – and it most definitely out-weighs our insistency to make plans!
Mother nature is calling us in for a home-schooled semester – that’s going to send us right back to Grade 1!
The hard truth
Since the pandemic – and even more so – since the news of our nationwide lockdown we have had to complete some really difficult tasks. The effects of this temperamental contagion, first materialized as we started sending staff home – in an immediate attempt to safeguard their health. Some of our team members have underlying medical conditions that range from TB to HIV and Cancer, which automatically heighten their risk for non-recovery.
Packing up our stock at the Watershed, for safe keeping – was also a tough emotional-pill to swallow. Yes –there were tears! The economic realization of what immobility will mean for our business, our brilliant team and our entire country has been nothing short of a mouth-gaping shock to the system.
Essential optimism
It has been through community and shared support from our local suppliers, fellow manufacturers and concerned collaborators – that we found drive. Understanding the home-life circumstances and health situations of our staff – has given us determination and perseverance. Our name – Matsidiso – ‘comfort after difficulty’, has been a constant term of endearment but also an unwavering reminder of the core values which instinctively propel our business. We are local! We are authentic! We are here to uplift our team members and build community – from the inside out – while making products that we are genuinely proud of. We will stand in solidarity with our fellow South African’s. We will take our lessons and grow our understanding – in eager anticipation of graduation.
‘We’d like to use this time during our nationwide lockdown, as an opportunity to truly engage and connect with our audience and customers. We are a brand of heart and soul and we will be right there with our Matsidiso Fam – every step of the way” – Jinae Heyns – Co-Founder and Creative Director -Matsidiso
Re-imagined and re-launched
The re-launch of our website has been a gratifying step of growth. Being a predominantly e-commerce retailer, we fully understand the weight that our virtual connection to other provinces holds for us. Our aim for the site was to expand but refine what was already there. Characteristics include press features and simple navigation – crafted to serve customers with more than just a platform to shop.
New brothers and sisters – such as our Nguni Rose-Metallic series and Black Cowhide fabrications – have been carefully curated and added to the Matsidiso Fam. With bold imagery, fresh stories and of course new products to shop – we hope to inspire interest and sustain style cravings.
‘Sewing’ the seeds of tomorrow
We started this business with a dream and its growth, has been a reinforcement of our belief in betterment. Our products are a testament to our ethical suppliers and the experienced hands that brought them to life. The opportunities afforded to us – have been enjoyed as a declaration of our customer and community loyalty. We are not alone! We are not afraid! As a wise man once said… “May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears.” – Nelson Mandela
Follow Matsidiso on social media
Facebook: @matsidisosouthafrica
Instagram: @matsidiso_sa
Twitter: @MatsidisoShoes
Website: https://za.matsidiso.com/
Issued by: T H R E A D S . M E D I A
Founder | Creative Director
Samantha Chrysanthou
Contact: +27 74 856 2070
Email: samantha@threadsmedia.co.za
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Instagram | @threads.media
LinkedIn | T H R E A D S . M E D I A
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