Mall group backs new shoe retailer with a vision

Benoni, Gauteng, SA – Cossen, a micro footwear manufacturer-cum-retailer founded by entrepreneur Nelisiwe Cossa, is 1 of 5 new entrepreneurs being helped to establish itself as a viable business by shopping centre group Vukile Property Fund in its Daveyton Mall in Benoni.

Having herself learnt the basics of design, pattern cutting and manufacturing mostly through a 6-month online training course based in Nigeria, she currently employs an artisan and 2 trainees who make Cossen’s footwear in the store.

The footwear, mainly mules and sandals, are unisex, with leather or textile uppers on EVA soles.

“They’re made to be versatile and inclusive,” she said. “The styles appeal across gender lines.”

Output averages 3 pairs/day, which she knows needs to be increased for the business to succeed. She’s looking at sourcing from home-based artisans, but would consider buying from a factory willing to make to her designs. “It’s important to me that the footwear is locally made,” she said. “Cossen is an African-inspired fashion brand.”

Cossen also offers boutique apparel and gemstone jewellery, and hands-on shoemaking workshops for customers to make their own shoes.

The name, Cossen, “is inspired by my paternal surname, Cossa,” she said. “In our family, ‘Cossen’ is a term of recognition and pride — a way we call or praise each other as part of our identity. Naming the brand this way is a tribute to my roots and a reminder of where the journey began.” – https://www.instagram.com/cossenofficial/?hl=en