The rugby subject isn’t the one place the place South African icon Siya Kolisi makes his mark. Kolisi, who famously captained the Springboks to Rugby World Cup glory twice, has additionally carved out a singular enterprise partnership.
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Today, the rugby nice holds a stake in a profitable clothes firm.
Kolisi: A Chance Encounter Sparks a Partnership
In 2017, Kolisi was a rising star in rugby when he visited Freedom of Movement (FOM), a younger leather-based bag startup. Their new “Vellie” shoe immediately appealed to him.
A contemporary spin on a traditional South African design, the straightforward shoe resonated with the sportsman. Inspired, Kolisi provided to star of their promotional video.
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With Kolisi’s backing, the Vellie was catapulted to success, making it FOM’s top-selling merchandise. CEO Léan Boezaart notes that Kolisi’s preliminary, unpaid promotion stemmed from a real friendship and shared values.
“At first, he did everything because he just liked what we were doing,” Boezaart says.
Business Success with a Social Conscience
The subsequent 12 months, a inexperienced FOM X Kolisi Vellie debuted, with gross sales proceeds constructing a rugby subject in Zwide, the deprived Eastern Cape group the place Kolisi grew up.
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Kolisi’s need to help group upliftment completely aligned with FOM’s values. Bags and attire quickly joined the Kolisi line, and royalties started flowing his means.
Kolisi: From Brand Ambassador to Shareholder
This mutually useful partnership reached new heights when Siya Kolisi acquired an fairness stake in FOM. “He wanted to feel like he’s part of it,” Boezaart explains.
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Unlike different endorsement offers, this marked a shift for Kolisi – from paid ambassador to invested part-owner.
Kolisi: An Eye on the European Market
Kolisi’s 2023 World Cup win was adopted by a transfer to French rugby membership Racing 92. But for FOM, this isn’t a loss – it’s a chance. With a European enlargement deliberate, Boezaart is assured that Kolisi will show important to rising the model’s attain.
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