Adventure Institute alumna Ann Eckard shares her journey as an entrepreneur and founder of Annatee, one of our favorite clothing brands. Discover how she transformed her passion for fashion and exploration into a thriving business.
Can you please give us an intro about yourself?
My Name is Ann Eckard and I am the owner of Annatee. I studied fashion design and after my studies I moved to Dubai and worked as a cabin crew for 5 years for Emirates Airlines. This was an incredible opportunity to see the world and it inspired me to start my own business. The key concept of my brand is to make clothing fit for any adventure. I love the thrill of exploring a new place and experiencing a new culture and I want to design clothing that you can wear while travelling with an excellent fit and made from high quality fabric. I also want to make clothing that will make people happy and excited.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
I really like the fact that with hard work and perseverance you really can achieve anything. I think being an entrepreneur is a very exciting journey, every day presents itself with new challenges to overcome. It is extremely rewarding to start something from nothing and to see your idea come to life. The best part is definitely to make a product that makes people happy and brings joy.
Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman? If so, how did you overcome them?
It is very difficult to start a business. When I started my brand I did not know anything about the clothing industry in South Africa, I felt extremely intimidated. I overcame this by reaching out to other designers and people in the industry who guided me in my journey. I asked a lot of questions and I realised that people are always willing to help and assist you with their knowledge.
What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?
It is important to decide what you are passionate about and to create something that you really love. It is extremely liberating to realise that you have a unique story to tell and that this is something that will set you apart. You need to tell a story when starting a brand.
How can we encourage more women to pursue entrepreneurship or leadership roles in their careers?
If you have a passion for what you do it will help you to persevere and to achieve your goals. I would also encourage women to reach out to other women for help and support. It is impossible to embark on a journey alone. Women must support other women and when we do this the possibilities are limitless for us.
Is there anyone that inspires you in your career?
My sister is a big inspiration to me. She has a huge passion for what she does and this helped her to achieve great heights in her career. She always motivates me and gives me great advice. It is so reassuring to know that as women we can choose any career path and achieve great success. Being an entrepreneur is a lonely road so it is important to surround yourself with other trailblazing women to motivate and inspire you.
Thank you for being such an inspiration, Ann.
Check out her website here and find her at her beautiful store at 22 Oaktree Ave, Hazelwood, Pretoria.
