IN CONVERSATION WITH MATTHEW AGYEMANG-DUAH
Happy new month! I trust that you are all keeping safe and adjusting to the ‘new norma'l’. I recently had a conversation with founder of upcoming clothing brand, Yung Venture, Matthew Agyemang-Duah. Read on to find out more about his vision and journey thus far.
JF: Who are you and what do you do?
MD: My name is Matthew Agyemang-Duah, within my day job I am an IT analyst and I also run a clothing brand called Yung Venture. The aim of Yung Venture is to essentially create clothes that have meaning, a greater purpose. As a lover of fashion and a man that avidly revamps his wardrobe every spring and autumn, I want to make a purposeful contribution to the fashion industry and subsequently the lives of my consumers.
JF: Talk me through your thought process behind the emblem of your brand, the bear.
MD: In the design process, I decided to go for a bear to represent the vision of the brand. Bears are not too far off from humans, characteristics-wise - they are devoted and strict about theirs. Bears represent strength, independence and courage. It is my aim that when people are wearing and styling the pieces, they are reminded of their purpose and like bears, not only do they go out and pursue whatever the day holds, but also be reminded of being a better human.
Image: Matthew Agyemang-Duah, founder of Yung Venture
JF: What three words best describe you?
MD: Confident. Motivated. Fearless. These words embody all that I am and are a testament to my journey thus far. I recall a teacher years ago in school telling my mum during parent’s evening that ‘Matthew would find it hard to succeed in life’. I remember hearing that and rejecting it immediately.
JF: You started your business in 2013. What has been your biggest challenge between now and then?
MD: Honestly, losing people. I actually started this business with a friend of mine and we had a solid vision and desire to do well, however, the circumstances early on put a strain on business operations. Starting and subsequently running a business solo is definitely challenging as you have to try your hand at every single aspect. Whilst I am definitely keen on expanding the Yung Venture team, I believe that it is incredibly important for the team to share the same vision as me - only then will the vision I have, truly come to life.
JF: It goes without saying that living through a global pandemic hasn’t been easy, talkless of now running a business during a pandemic. What have you been doing, especially as a solo business owner, to look after yourself and your mental wellbeing during this time?
MD: I am from Ghana and as a child, my parents used to bang on constantly about reading and its importance. As an adult now, I get it. A personal favourite of mine that I would recommend to those reading is ‘The Secret’ by Rhonda Byrne, one of the best books I have read that has positively impacted my mindset. I think that is quite key during this time, amidst our now, new normal. Following on from that, I think actively working on thinking positive thoughts has really helped me during this time not just as an individual but as a business owner with a great vision. Granted it isn’t easy or ideal, but taking things one day at a time has helped. Currently, so many of us are working from home and I would implore you all to take naps when you can - rest is critical, recharge your batteries!
Image: Yung Venture
MD: The vision for Yung Venture is so broad. From a products perspective, I want to expand into accessories. I am also keen on seeing how I can assist those in the fashion space to effectively implement and utilise IT into their business models. It is my hope that in expanding and strategically diversifying the business, that I can provide opportunities for many within the community.
JF: For people that are interested in going into business, whether it be full-time or alongside their current day jobs, what three pieces of advice would you give to them?
MD: Firstly, just do it, just start! Be proactive and get started on the little things to ease your way into things. Brainstorm your vision, have a clear idea of what exactly you are trying to achieve and the problem you are working to solve. Secondly, stay positive. It is easier said than done and Lord knows I have had ups and downs but I believe in my vision and the end goal is what keeps me going. Find what works for you. Finally, humility. Stay humble, stay grounded so that when the success comes, you can relate to and still have your end consumer in mind.
JF: Amazing. So what can we expect next from Yung Venture?
MD: More clothes and expect a winter collection! Do keep an eye on the Yung Venture’s social media pages - I’ll be documenting a lot of the journey with the hopes of encouraging others to be bold and take action.
Final Words:
I hope you found that both informative and encouraging. As a massive lover of conversation and sharing knowledge and information, I vow to do more of this - short conversations within people across industries and sectors, with the hopes of encouraging you to get up and take action.
Be sure to follow Matthew and keep up with Yung Venture on Instagram and via their website too. I have no doubt that Matthew will go on to do great things. As Matthew mentioned, keep your eyes peeled for Winter Collection! Hopefully, over the coming months, Yung Venture will become a name we hear more and more within our community. Feel free to share this post as well as the many others on jenniferfrimpong.com with your friends, family, colleagues, neighbours - anyone that will listen! More great content to come - wait me!