In a world where dreams are often sparked by the feats of trailblazers, Wandile Sibisi, a visionary entrepreneur hailing from the Umlazi township in KwaZulu-Natal, is forging his path to success by transforming the landscape of sneaker culture in South Africa.
With a combination of global inspiration and local ambition, his brainchild, RareStep, is carving its mark on the billion-dollar sneaker industry while embodying the spirit of entrepreneurship and collaboration.
No ad to show here.
Sneakers, once considered mere footwear, have now transcended their utilitarian purpose to become coveted artifacts in the fashion realm. The sneaker frenzy has evolved into a multimillion-dollar resale market, and recent record-breaking sales underscore the passion and value that enthusiasts place on these iconic kicks.
Sibisi recognised the untapped potential within this dynamic market and decided to make his mark through
RareStep, a premium South African online store specialising in exclusive, limited-edition sneakers and high-end streetwear.
His journey is steeped in inspiration drawn from the stories of fellow South African entrepreneurs who dared to dream and make their impact. He acknowledges the influence of figures like Theo Baloyi and Lekau Sehoana, who transformed their aspirations into reality through brands like Bathu and Drip.
Born in the era of global connectivity, Sibisi’s fascination with American sneaker culture spurred him to create RareStep, a fusion of international trends and local authenticity.
“I saw a world where sneakers weren’t just shoes, but symbols of identity and aspirations,” Sibisi shared. “My exposure to influencers, musicians, and athletes embracing sneaker culture reinforced my belief that this was more than just a trend; it was a movement.”
Collaboration often fuels innovation, and Sibisi’s journey was no exception. Teaming up with Michael Zahariev and Luke Calitz of pre-owned luxury reseller Luxity, RareStep gained the expertise needed to thrive in the competitive world of high fashion and streetwear.
Zahariev emphasises their commitment to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs, fostering an ecosystem that values sustainability and circular economy principles. The Luxity duo’s involvement is not just about business; it’s about empowerment and paying it forward.
RareStep’s uniqueness lies in its ability to cater to diverse needs within the sneaker community. From collectors cherishing their kicks in pristine condition to individuals who view sneakers as an investment, it provides a haven for all. Two-factor authentication ensures that every item is authentic, giving customers peace of mind in their purchases.
As RareStep’s success story unfolds, it becomes evident that it’s more than just a business venture; it’s a testament to the power of dreams, collaboration, and nurturing entrepreneurship. By combining global inspiration with local passion, RareStep is not only shaping sneaker culture in South Africa but also sending a message to dreamers everywhere – that with determination, innovation, and the right network, anything is achievable.
READ NEXT: Google lifts veil on AI First accelerator for African start-ups
