From fundraising idea to tailoring SME

By ZARA KANU LEBO
LOCAL tailoring business Jex Bags is focusing more on accessories using recycled materials, according to owner Veronica Puy.
“The idea to start up the business stemmed from a fundraising drive we did some years back to go towards a family obligation,” she said.
“The fundraiser made us realize that there was potential to earn money at your own time and using the skills that you have.
“This is a home-based tailoring business where we sew assorted bags.
“The assorted bags was the original item we sold.
“But since then, we have expanded to other accessories using recycled materials or second-hand fabrics.
“It is strong quality material.
“Because I buy the materials at a cheaper price, I sell at an affordable price to ensure I maintain my customers.”
Now she is also selling upholsteries and accessories such pot carriers, water bottle holders, pillow cases, bed covers and pre-ordered Indonesian batik clothing from Jayapura, in the province of Papua in Indonesia.
Puy is from East Sepik and Central and her husband is from Jayapura. She is a stay-at-home mum raising three children and running the small business.
She graduated from the University of PNG with a bachelor in medicine, but decided to prioritise her role as a mother and raise her children.
“I decided to give my time to the upbringing of my children: Jayden aged 11, Esmeralda aged nine, and Xelle aged seven.
“It has been five years now that I have been at home, I’m a stay-at-home mum by choice.”
She said Jex stands for the initials of her children.
She uses the city markets monthly.
She said many people venturing into business tended to lose hope quickly after just a few failures.
“God gave us knowledge, and we should use it to our benefit.”