It goes without saying that the Covid-19 pandemic changed our lives in many ways. For Rise Brand, the challenges of isolation inspired and fueled its purpose today – encouraging people to come together to help each other face and overcome complex challenges and circumstances.
Let’s dig deeper into the journey of Rise Brand.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and Rise brand
My name is Michael Robert. I am founder of Rise Brand – a premium clothing apparel brand on a mission to get people to come together to overcome difficult challenges and circumstances.
Our brand is about inspiring people to rise above difficulties they face in everyday life. For me and my family, that has been mental health issues. Every South African has challenges that they can’t overcome by themselves. The idea behind Rise is to have them join together to do their part to help South Africa rise to the country it could be.
My hope is that the message Rise Brand carries challenges and inspires, and that we can be a part of our customers’ stories in some way. Then together we can rise above those challenges.
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I don’t actually remember what exactly, but I do remember that I never wanted to be behind a desk. For as long as I can remember, I have always wanted to be a person that was there to help someone in a difficult situation.
What do you enjoy about being an entrepreneur?
Nothing ;) It’s hard. But on a serious note, it does require some serious commitment. What I enjoy most is being my own boss and constantly challenging myself. It’s something I have always wanted to do.
I’m doing something I’m passionate about doing and I love doing so it doesn’t feel like work.
Working hard is a huge part of entrepreneurship but the feeling of being in control of my own destiny outweighs every other thing. That’s another thing I enjoy about being an entrepreneur.
What advice would you give someone starting out?
The hardest part of starting your own business is starting. It’s easy to come up with an idea and to talk about it but to actually do it, that’s hard. It’s the scariest part because that’s when you take a risk.
The advice I’d give to someone starting their business is simple: Do it. The longer you sit around, the less likely you will get to doing it. You’ll convince yourself of all the reasons you shouldn’t do it. So, just do it.
How did you get past the fear and self-doubt of becoming an entrepreneur?
My wife. I wanted to quit a hundred times and she always reminded me why I started. Also, the response from people. I have had so many people come up to me and tell me that they think an item I’m wearing is nice and ask me where it’s from. It’s affirming knowing that people connect with the message of Rise brand.
What are your customers favourite items?
The trucker caps are quite a popular buy. We also have a range of t-shirts, some caps, and a kid’s range. We’ve worked on some sport’s clothing and we’ll be bringing out more sport’s and athleisure, hopefully, this year.
What do you enjoy about iKhokha and the products?
I mainly use the iKhokha payment gateway and the Mover Pro.
What I like about iKhokha is the people. Business to me is not just about working with other people but about making partnerships that make sense. Partnering with people that can help you achieve your dreams and make your business succeed. And for me, iKhokha is that. I feel like we are working together with the same common vision and values.
Join the iK Tribe
If you’re a business owner who’s on a mission to grow their business, you’re in the right place. The iK Tribe is a community of entrepreneurs with a single goal in mind, elevating the South African economy through small business growth.
Much like Rise Brand, we believe in the power of unity and that when small businesses grow, the entire nation thrives.
Find out more about Rise Brand and shop their premium clothing here.
Let’s rise
Rise Brand is just one of many inspiring stories we get to share and be part of in the iK Tribe. If you want to be the next merchant featured, reach out to us on our social platforms.
