By TROY MUKUPA
Lusaka, Zambia – In the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends come and go, Derrick Sikazwe, the proprietor of ‘Sikazwe and Sons’, has built a tailoring empire that stands the test of time. With 21 years of experience under his belt, Sikazwe has established himself as a master tailor, renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to excellence. But what sets him apart from others in the industry? According to Sikazwe, the secret to his success lies in one crucial element: trust.
Sikazwe’s journey in the tailoring industry began many years ago, and over the years, he has learned the importance of building trust with his clients. “Trust is the foundation upon which any successful business is built,” Sikazwe emphasized in an exclusive interview with The Daily Nation Lifestyle. “When clients trust you, they’re more likely to return, and that’s what has kept my business thriving for over two decades. Trust is not just a virtue; it’s a necessity in our industry.”
Sikazwe’s mantra is simple: build trust, and clients will follow. “I’ve seen many businesses come and go, but the ones that last are those that prioritize trust,” he said. “As tailors, we’re not just creating garments; we’re creating experiences. When clients trust us, they’re not just giving us their business; they’re giving us their confidence. It’s our job to protect that confidence and deliver exceptional service that exceeds their expectations.” For Sikazwe, trust is not just a buzzword; it’s a way of doing business.
So, what does it mean to build trust in the tailoring industry? According to Sikazwe, it means being accountable, reliable, and consistent. “When clients know that they can count on you, they’ll come back to you time and time again. That’s what sets you apart from the competition,” he explained. Sikazwe’s advice to aspiring tailors is clear: focus on building trust with your clients. “Don’t just focus on creating beautiful garments; focus on creating relationships,” he said. “When clients trust you, they’ll forgive mistakes, they’ll recommend you to others, and they’ll come back to you even when times are tough. Trust is the thread that weaves a successful business together.”
As I watched Sikazwe and his team work tirelessly to create garments that exceed their clients’ expectations, it was crystal clear that their commitment to trust is palpable. Every stitch, every fold, and every garment that leaves the workshop is a powerful testament to their unwavering dedication to excellence. Tucked away in the heart of Kamwala market, at shop number K66 is a haven for those seeking exceptional tailoring services. From school uniforms to custom-made chitenge clothes, hospital scrubs, and nurses’ uniforms, Sikazwe’s expertise knows no bounds.
“Trust is not just a virtue; it’s a business strategy,” Sikazwe said, smiling. “When you prioritize trust, you’ll naturally strive for excellence. You’ll want to deliver exceptional service, you’ll want to create beautiful garments, and you’ll want to build relationships that last. That’s what has kept me in business for 21 years, and that’s what will keep my business thriving for years to come.”
As the tailoring industry continues to evolve, Sikazwe’s message remains clear: trust is the keystone of success. By prioritizing trust, tailors can build businesses that stand the test of time, businesses that are built on relationships, accountability, and a commitment to excellence.
