ENTREPRENEUR OF THE WEEK

JULIA JB BANDA: STITCHING DREAMS INTO A GROWING FASHION BUSINESS
For many young people, skills training opens doors to employment. For Julia Banda, it opened the door to entrepreneurship. Through determination, creativity and the practical knowledge she gained during her studies, Julia has successfully transformed her tailoring skills into a growing fashion business serving her community.
Julia, 30, graduated from Don Bosco Youth Technical Institute in October 2025 with a credit. She is based in Area 23 in Lilongwe where she runs Julie Tailoring and Fashion Design, a business located in Area 23 (Tank) along New Lines on Kamuzu Barracks Road.
Her enterprise offers a wide range of services including ladies’ wear, men’s wear, children’s wear, school uniforms, church uniforms and tailoring lessons. The business also provides custom-made clothing based on customers’ needs.
Julia started the business in 2023 soon after finishing her studies. She says her dream had always been to become an entrepreneur and establish her own brand in the fashion industry.
“After spending over three and a half years at Don Bosco learning tailoring,fashion designing and entrepreneurship, I realised I had the skills and knowledge needed to start my own business,” she said.
According to Julia, tailoring has positively transformed her life. The business has helped her strengthen her management skills while also providing financial stability. Through the enterprise, she has been able to purchase equipment, pay household bills and support family members and friends.
Currently, she engages temporary workers whenever she receives many orders that require quick delivery. However, she plans to hire permanent employees in the coming months as the business continues to grow.
Like many new entrepreneurs, Julia initially faced difficulties gaining customer trust because she was new in the industry. She overcame this challenge by showcasing her work through displays and social media platforms.
Looking ahead, Julia hopes to see her business expand further while creating employment opportunities for others. She also plans to mentor those interested in venturing into tailoring.
She credits Don Bosco Youth Technical Institute for shaping her discipline and work ethic, guided by the motto Hard Work and Vision, Honesty and Duty.
“Believe in yourself and never underestimate your potential. Start with what you have and keep improving. With hard work and vision, your business will grow,” she advised.
Julie Tailoring and Fashion Design : 0996075697/ 0897593222