The Designs Plug: A Zimbabwean Story of Talent, Hustle and Growth

Most people are born with talents, but fewer are able to discover them. And of those who do, an even smaller percentage can monetize their skills and achieve greatness. Hillary Sibanda is one of those who not only found his talent but is building an empire from it.

While many pursue skills through education, Hillary is a natural-born graphic designer who carved his own path. Let me tell you the story of Hillary Sibanda, the man behind The Designs Plug , from our first meeting to where he is now.

I had a table at Eastgate Market, right next to Leona, the owner of Lofty Fresh. While working on my Flavored Honey Roasted Peanuts, I desperately needed a good designer for my packaging. Leona introduced me to her husband's friend, a talented but low-key designer. He did my designs, and let me tell you, the man delivered.

People loved the packaging, and they constantly asked who designed it. Back then, I was active on "Zwitter," our Zimbabwean side of Twitter. With friends like Matope Nigel, Hatiperi, Vee Delectables, and Davidzo Chizhengeni, I was part of the business Twitter community. I advised Hillary to establish his presence there, which he did with our support. He began attracting clients.

At the time, he worked from either my table or Leona's, nothing was stopping him, but there was one problem, he was significantly undervaluing his work. He'd charge $5 for designs that were easily worth $20. He was getting busier by the day, with clients constantly coming in.

As the founder of 263Connect, I organized the 2nd young entrepreneurs meetup in 2021. Hillary, working like family with our volunteer team, went above and beyond. He handled the meetup's branding and even took the opportunity to brand himself. The event, held in Norton, brought him valuable exposure as he was running around and also doubled as the event photographer. This marked the beginning of traction for The Designs Plug.

We helped him establish his presence on Facebook, Google My Business, and Instagram, aiming to transform his hustle into a sustainable business. Sometime in 2023, however, things seemed to get overwhelming. His talent attracted a flood of clients, and with his low pricing, he struggled to manage the workload. Clients faced unacceptable delays on their designs. When we suggested adjusting his pricing model, he argued that the designs were "too easy to make" to justify higher fees. I was speechless!

We suggested that he should assemble a team but he also expressed concerns about building a team. He worried that hiring a designer as good as him would be expensive, and training someone would create more work initially. He feared that after training, they might leave to start their own ventures, forcing him to repeat the cycle. We needed a plan to transform his hustle into a proper business.

In 2023, we had a crucial conversation about growth. It was time for him to turn The Designs Plug into a professional entity. This was no longer a hustle; it was a business. Thankfully, Hillary had a vision for The Designs Plug's future. He registered the company, secured an office, and assembled a small team. He also expanded his services to include social media marketing. He had now understood his worthy and appreciating his talent.

To minimize training time, he created templates for his team to work with. He revised his pricing model, designing a system to streamline operations. When we met again, he filled me in on his restructuring efforts, and I couldn't have been happier. The Designs Plug was now positioned for greatness.

As 2024 began, he obtained his tax clearance, determined to fulfill his financial obligations. He started attracting bigger companies, building an impressive portfolio. In March, I needed designs done urgently for Propertynet's immovable properties auction. Hesitant at first, considering the tight deadline, I gave the project to The Designs Plug. They delivered flawlessly, exceeding my client's expectations. This experience solidified their reputation for professionalism and reliability. I've witnessed the company secure several major projects this year alone, including a collaboration with a major South African company.

Just last week, Hillary called me, referencing our conversation about revamping their office space. He confirmed it was happening and promised to call once complete. When I saw the finished space, I was blown away. The Hillary who once operated from the corner of my table had not only established The Designs Plug but had transformed it into a truly impressive brand. I can't wait to see what's next, though I suspect acquiring printers and machines is on the horizon, making The Designs Plug a one-stop shop.

Hillary embodies the spirit of The Designs Plug's tagline: "Dream it, Wish it, Do it!" He exemplifies commitment, humility, and perseverance. He embraces constructive criticism and continuously strives to improve himself and his brand.

Wondering what The Designs Plug does? They do your social media marketing and management, design logos, flyers, posters, album and book cover art, calendars, company or organizational profiles, handbooks, magazines, t-shirts and all sorts of corporate wear, business cards, banners, billboards, product packaging, letterheads, wedding cards... In short, if it's design, he can do it exceptionally well.

Like many, I love seeing brands grow from nothing to greatness. With 263Connect, I've witnessed countless brands flourish, and it truly warms my heart.

Ready to connect with The Designs Plug? Here are your options:

Visit them in person: Netone Building, 6th Floor, Room N3

Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Call or WhatsApp: +263 71 943 3367 / +263 77 645 3367

For those who prefer to avoid CBD traffic: They can visit your offices as well!