Meet Evodie Mukandila | Entrepreneur & CEO of chirté
We had the good fortune of connecting with Evodie Mukandila and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Evodie, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
My favorite quote is “WHY NOT ME” by CHIRTÉ. These simple three-letter words are significant because they challenge the status quo and inspire me to pursue my dreams fearlessly. I like that I can use this quote through fashion and clothing to challenge youths and adults to chase after their hopes and dreams.
What should our readers know about your business?
I started my clothing brand during one of the lowest points of my life. It was about two years ago when I lost my job, my car was not working, and I think I had about $100 in my bank account. The bills were piling up, and I was looking for a way out. The idea came to me after one Sunday service at church, “what if I made custom t-shirts with people’s favorite bible verses printed on them?” I did not know how to begin or where to go, so I got on YouTube and TikTok and watched dozens of videos on how to make t-shirts. I ordered some T-shirts from Gildan and a few materials online, and within a few months, I began selling T-shirts.
Even though I was making money and orders were coming in. I was still not completely satisfied. I wanted to create graphic designs and styles that would attract other types of consumers. Every day and night I got on my knees and prayed to God about my new plans in hopes of sending me signs and directions. It was not until late summer of August 18th, 2021 that I created my first clothing brand called “CHIRTÉ” meaning “Why not me?” because if they can do it, then I can do it too. Derived from the English root word “shirt” Chirté is a clothing brand whose mission is to empower urban culture through streetwear, challenging norms, and inspiring diverse youth and adults to fearlessly pursue their dreams. At chirté, we promise to give our consumers excellent quality at an affordable price. The brand has now sold more than 200 clothing and accessories bringing everyone together with our unique message.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My best friend and I would take a one-week-long trip to south Jamaica, New York. On Monday, we would visit the Museum of Modern Art to look at some artwork. On Tuesday, we would go to the Rockefeller shopping center and purchase gifts for our family and friends. We would go inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral to walk around and take pictures. The structure of the buildings and the colors inside are beautiful. On Wednesday, we would go to Central Park to see where they filmed Home Alone. It’s everyone’s favorite Christmas movie, especially the memorable pigeon scene. Places to eat are Joe’s Pizza and Joey Roses, the best ham and cheese sandwich place ever. We like to keep it simple so a good Sprite and Fanta will do. On Thursday night at around 8 pm, we would go to Times Square to watch the shows and take pictures until midnight. And on Friday, we would visit the MET gala to look at some art, but mostly because other celebrities have been there too.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I give glory to God for getting me this far. I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for him. Thank you to my friends and family. To the people, I love you so so much thank you for the support!
Website: www.chirte.com
Instagram: Chirteofficial
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092385983913&mibextid=uzlsIk
Image Credits
Victor Andrews Manifique
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