From WhatsApp Seller to Fashion Entrepreneur *Gildas’ Journey Reflects a Growing Trend Among Young Cameroonian Business Owners
By Tabe Glory
A 30-year-old Cameroonian entrepreneur, Gildas, is building a name for himself in the fashion sector after starting his business through a WhatsApp group.His venture, which focuses on the sale of women’s clothing, began as a small online activity with limited resources. According to him, he created a WhatsApp group that brought together contacts who could view and purchase items he posted regularly. The clothes were sourced at relatively low prices from a family member and resold to customers.The approach gradually attracted attention, enabling him to expand his customer base over time. After operating exclusively online for about two years, Gildas was able to save enough to open a physical shop.“Today, my shop receives many customers because I stayed consistent and focused on my goals,” he said.Gildas attributes part of his growth to the accessibility of his products. By offering fashionable clothing at relatively affordable prices, he has been able to reach a broader range of customers.He also notes that starting a business, particularly online, does not always require significant financial capital. Instead, he points to consistency and initiative as important factors in sustaining growth.His experience reflects a wider pattern among young entrepreneurs in Cameroon who are using digital platforms such as WhatsApp to launch and expand small businesses.
