Kamesha Browne’s journey in fashion designing has only just begun, but she is already making her mark with her unique brand of clothing.
At age 19, Kamesha has her own business, Designs by Mesha, which she started on January 28 last year. Located in Cave Hill, St Michael, it’s called Designs by Mesha because she wanted something related to her name.
“I attended the Barbados Vocational Training Board where I studied garment making from 2017 to 2018 and gained a certificate. I then furthered my studies for two years at the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology, where I gained a certificate. My business first started with my family because I used them as my models and practised on them.”
The young designer told Today’s Fashion that her original career choice would have led her into culinary arts since she wanted to be a cook.
“I chose fashion designing so I can make my own clothes but my family and friends motivated me, [saying] I should [sew] for other people as well. I had doubts about it because this was my second choice in life since I wanted to be a cook or chef.
“My journey started in 2017 when I attended the Barbados Vocational Training Board. I was only 17 years old when I began. I learned the basics there, but I am self-taught in swimsuits.”
Kamesha said her only regret is not starting sewing earlier. “When I first started out, it was so hard because I didn’t know anything about sewing at all and always had trouble threading the sewing machines or winding the bobbins. I was not a quick learner back then and I would get frustrated and cry, but my tears got me here today. I am the first person in my family to be sewing so I couldn’t get any help. I was all on my own.”
The teen admits that while she is comfortable doing all types of clothing, her speciality is swimwear. “I love to explore and try different swimsuits. The services I offer are women’s, men’s and children’s clothing. My designs are mostly from the Internet, but I switch the styles up a bit so it can be different.
“My customers range from toddlers to adults. When my clients come to me, my goal is to make them happy by giving them great service. Customer satisfaction is important to me so that they can keep coming back. It is not only about money.”
In its short year in existence, Designs by Mesha has been associated with a few elegant affairs.
“I would have done my graduation at Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology. I also did my mother’s dress for that graduation and a dress for a lady for a wedding.”
Kamesha said with each passing day her business is growing through customer referrals and by advertising her work on social media. She also credits her family and friends for being her most loyal partners in business as they are constantly promoting the brand.
“Because of the growth there are times that are busier which means I don’t get much sleep or I work through to the day.”
Kamesha has many goals in mind, but her strategy is to take one step at a time. “I see my business getting further in the future because I am improving daily and trying new stuff. I would like to become someone big in Barbados but everything takes time and God’s timing is always right.”
Kamesha says she draws her motivation and inspiration from the two people who are closest to her. “My family and friends motivate me personally and professionally, especially my mother Caroline Howard and stepfather Curtis Thorne.”
Her mantra is simple: “You can do whatever you put your mind to. It may be hard at first because it requires a lot of patience but don’t give up and don’t listen to negativity.”
Kamesha’s main goal in life is to be happy and content. She is eternally grateful for all she has achieved so far and is eager to see what great things may be ahead.
Shifting the focus from being solely on her, she politely asked during the interview to be allowed to name all the persons who have played an integral part in her journey and development.
“I wholeheartedly wish to thank and also mention my grandfather Tyrone Boyce. Then there are my family and loved ones: Kemar Headley, Georgiana Howard, Shakera Howard, Shereece Redman, Cynthia Howard, Lee-ann Martindale, Faith Brome, Dillan Brome, Nadeen Brome, Gianni Harewood, Aleeyah Boyce, Shaniqua Babb, Debralyn Pilgrim, Rhianna Beckles, Kiamore Browne, Rickel Jordan, Deshawn Toppin and Dejuan Toppin because they all have motivated me in one way or the other causing me to become the person I am today. Without them, Kamesha Browne and Designs by Mesha would not be,” the designer said. (IMC)
