From Grass to Grace: The story of Tinotenda Matayi

Zimbabwean social media influencer Tinotenda Matayi, prominently known by his fashion brand name “Hatiperi Wacho,” founded the company Hatiperi Official Private Limited. He recently shared the painful yet inspiring journey to his success in establishing a clothing brand specializing in streetwear and corporate wear.

This reflection came after the launch of his clothing retail shop last Friday at LongCheng Plaza in Harare.

The event was attended by several prominent figures from the corporate business and entertainment worlds. Notable attendees included multi-award-winning international artist Jah Prayzah, Minister of Whitelinen, and Tinashe Mugabe, among others.

Tinotenda recounted how he established his brand in 2018, a year after losing his parents. This period marked his transition into adulthood and maturity. He explained that the name “Hatiperi” was a source of motivation for him throughout his journey. He expressed gratitude to all who supported him from the beginning and particularly appreciated the presence of multi-award-winning international artist Jah Prayzah at the launch of his shop.

“Words cannot express my gratitude for Jah Prayzah and his team for gracing our official opening ceremony with their presence. I am just a small boy with big dreams, and more than grateful that my brother Jah Prayzah drove all the way to cut the ribbon and make my day a great one!” posted Tinotenda on Facebook.

He added, “In 2018, when I was in college, life forced me to grow up faster than I ever imagined. Mama had passed away the previous year, and my sisters were married and living abroad. At 17, I found myself alone. I vividly remember the day I started saying ‘Hatiperi’ around my college friends. To them, it was just a phrase, but to me, it was a powerful prayer, a daily motivation, and a sermon wrapped into one word. During those tough days, I often had to pretend everything was fine around my wealthier classmates, even though I knew there was nothing to eat at home. I always reminded myself that with God, ‘Hatiperi’ – we are never hopeless. This belief helped me push through seemingly impossible situations.”

“I remember investing the only $50 I had saved over months to order two hoodies, two t-shirts, and two beanies from China, all branded with ‘Hatiperi.’ Anxiously waiting for the order, I paid a local friend to help me design the logo. After spending countless days perfecting it, we finally created the infinity sign that made everything look amazing. When COVID-19 hit, my order was delayed, but I kept waiting. The day it finally arrived, I never thought anyone would relate to my message or support my vision so quickly,” said Tinotenda.

He continued producing t-shirts and hoodies, sourcing them from downtown, and despite their humble beginnings, people supported them.

“Poverty taught me how to survive by any means necessary. We built this business and brand from zero without any external funding. The initial support came from individuals who genuinely believed in and adored what I was doing. This journey has been filled with tears, losses, stress, joy, and occasional victories. It took me nearly six years to perfect the start-up process. Today, the brand employs 10-15 families, depending on how busy the month is. Though the brand is only two years old, it took me six years to get it right. If you ask me how I got here, it would be an injustice to respond without mentioning you – everyone who has believed in us from day one. As I always say, put God first and never give up on what you believe. In God, ‘Hatiperi’ – We have unlimited potential,” said Tinotenda.