Name: Mariam Jafaru
Business Name: Zongozon, 43 Whalley Avenue, New Haven
Year Business was started in New Haven: 2024
Why did you start your own business?
I started my own small business because of the passion I have for fashion and also let the community explore my creativity and have an insight about what African fabrics can offer to all generations.
Why did you choose to start your business in New Haven?
Yale University/ Shops at Yale gave me this amazing opportunity to start what I love without any existing experience in owning a small business. I really appreciate the support, the encouragement, and the courage they gave me to own this business.
What challenges did you have to overcome in starting your business?
Nothing becomes successful without any challenges. I have been a registered nurse for the past 13 years. I cut down on my hours at work to build the business, which has put some cut off to my spending, I work only weekends, and the rest of the five days, I’m at the shop, I missed spending quality time with my family, friends, and outing.
Photos courtesy of Zongozon:
Pho