Charlotte Musinga’s journey into the jewellery business started when she could not find jewellery that was durable and affordable. “I would go to stores thinking they would have good stuff, but even in high-end stores their jewellery was too expensive. I just couldn’t find jewellery that doesn’t fade or rust”, she explains.

The 23 year old said she used her background in construction studies and knowledge of materials to source items that last longer and are resistant to water and bodily fluids like sweat. “I use silver bases and medical grade stainless steel which is gold-plated and does not rust”, Charlotte said.

A student at the University of Cape Town, Charlotte believes the combination of durability and versatility that her jewellery comes with is what separates her business from any other. “If you’re wearing something everyday it should be able to withstand any conditions. We make sure our designs are suitable for that purpose”, she explains.

Her brand, Ebirungi, is an online jewellery business that sells to people in South Africa, where she is currently based, and Uganda. “We have an Instagram page, a WhatsApp catalogue as well as Facebook page. Our materials are sourced from China and South Africa and the products are sold in South Africa as well as Uganda”, Charlotte elaborates.

According to Charlotte, her main challenge is she runs the business by herself as she does not want to hire anybody else to keep costs down. “It’s time consuming, especially with regard to taking orders and passing them on to my brother who delivers the jewellery”. She also mentions low capital but believes that is just part of the job and she does not see it as a huge challenge.

On how she balances studying and managing the business, Charlotte says “I started the business at the end of 2020 when I was in between my first and second degree. I was back in Uganda and I had time on my hands to market the business. Now that I have a steady customer base, there is no pressure for me to be pushing the brand on social media everyday and I can concentrate on my studies”.

Now you know where to find quality jewellery that is affordable and lasts long. Look up @ebirungi_brand on all social media platforms.