Ann Ongori: How JKUAT Student Went From Buying Second-hand Clothes to Reduce Spending to Establishing Thriving Mtumba Business

Ann Ongori is currently a full-time student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

And just like many university students, she seeks to maintain a fashionable and presentable appearance without overspending.

However, Ongori’s initial goal of achieving budget-friendly style evolved into a successful entrepreneurial venture.

While managing her academic responsibilities and social engagements, she established Annie Styles, a second-hand clothing enterprise aimed at offering affordable fashion to her peers while also supporting her educational expenses.

“Juggling school and entrepreneurship has not been easy, but I am driven by passion for fashion and a desire to share the benefits of mtumba clothing with others,” she said.

Ongori, having grown up in a world heavily influenced by fashion, came to understand that style does not necessarily require a significant financial investment; rather, it is about skillfully combining the right elements to create a stunning ensemble.

In 2022, she officially established Annie Styles, initially starting as a modest endeavor to sell clothing to friends and fellow students from her dormitory.

Through the power of social media and positive referrals, Ongori’s enterprise expanded beyond the confines of campus, attracting a broader customer base.

With a keen awareness of the preferences of young consumers, she developed collections of stylish, budget-friendly second-hand clothing.

Notably, by blending vintage and contemporary trends, Annie Styles has emerged as a preferred destination for distinctive and affordable fashion.

Operating a business while pursuing academic studies presents significant challenges.

Ongori dedicates her early mornings to attending lectures, reserving her late evenings for tasks such as organizing inventory, shipping orders, and listing available products online.

Annie Styles provides a diverse selection of clothing suitable for various occasions, including casual outings, parties, and professional events.

Through diligent effort and determination, Ann successfully transformed her operations into a fully operational online store.

Annie Styles aspires to evolve into a full-time enterprise, aiming to offer more affordable fashion choices and to establish additional thrift store locations in various regions.