Styling: Mozambican Guiyani Monteiro is changing Joburg’s shopping landscape

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Styling: Mozambican Guiyani Monteiro is changing Joburg’s shopping landscape

6:10 CAT | 30 Aug 2016

Destiny Connect / Guiyani Monteiro

Guiyani Monteiro is changing the Jo’burg shopping landscape one sophisticated, stylish piece at a time

Monteiro’s shop/exhibition space, Ants, is one of the coolest concept stores in Jo’burg. A gorgeous, minimalist space done in white with accents of black chalkboard paint, it’s as cosmopolitan and warm as its owner. She’s Mozambican-born, but has spent more time in SA than anywhere else, including stints in the USA and France.

She did a course in fashion merchandising at the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising in New York City and spent time working in fashion. “I was exposed to many different retail offerings, which was how I got the idea for Ants. I wanted to create something new that brings everyone together,” she explains.

“Living abroad definitely helps you appreciate your continent more. Initially, I wanted to promote only African goods, but now I’ve expanded my vision to other influences. We’re a gallery space, a shop and a cultural centre, but we’re not just about price points, as our items range from R10 to R10 000 – it’s about craftsmanship,” she says.

She used her savings and a loan from her family to set up the business. “My biggest expense was getting international stock, but my overhead costs were very high as well,” she recalls. Renovations to the space used up a large chunk of her capital, as does her rental. “It was hard forking out for the renovations because I only rent the space, but I had a very specific feel in mind,” she explains.

“Parkhurst was exactly the location I wanted, as there are many galleries and designers here. There aren’t many walk-in customers, but I have a plan to combat that. I want to make this a destinational venue, so I’m going to keep having the exhibitions. I want to include children’s events, cultural evenings, and art and fashion shows, which I’m hoping will create awareness of our offerings.” Ultimately, she’d like to expand to neighbouring countries, with the ideal of bringing people together so that everyone can benefit.

Source: Destiny Connect