Introduction

Welcome to Silverbacks Valley, a podcast changing the narrative around Africa through the bridging of the worlds of #venturecapital, #tech, #sports, #media and #lifestyle.

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Disclaimer : This episode is for informational and entertainment purposes only, no content of the conversation should be considered as investment advice. 

This episode is powered by the African Venture Capital Association (AVCA).

Today in the valley with Ibrahim Sagna is a model turned shoemaker who was first spotted in the streets of London where he was first spotted for his slender figure. He walked to the podiums of top brands he has walked before making New York his home as the first African footwear luxury brand owner to have his shop at the Rockefeller in New York. His designs have been worn to the likes of Giannis Antetokoumpo, Adekunle Gold and Burna Boy, Today, the valley welcomes Armando Cabral. 

5 BIG IDEAS DISCUSSED WITH ARMANDO CABRAL IN THE VALLEY

« Do not take no for an answer »

Armando Cabral's modelilng career started with a series of rejections. He took it upon himself to create a book that would reflect his creative vision and appeal to modelling agencies. His resilience proved to bring the desired result as he later went on to become one of the world's most coveted models, walking the catwalk for the likes of Dior, Calvin Klein, Gucci, etc …

"As a model, I enjoyed being exposed to the business of fashion"

Armando speaks about the doors that he was able to open for himself as a model. Once he knew where his heart was, he kept his mind engaged. He leveraged his presence and exposure to big brands to not only develop a rich network within the industry but also learn how business was conducted. His inclination to always learn was a useful tool for him as he navigated his model career and used the opportunities he received to improve his business acumen about the industry. 

"I wanted to bridge a gap"

Armed with a clear passion and growth mindset, Armando eventually actions a plan around the market opportunity that he identified. His shoe brand was first started to address the gap that existed between the mass market and luxury fashion houses' shoe lines. His understanding of this gap and the customers that he was targeting allowed him to fill an empty room - he designed his first shoe line and sold out his first collection in no time. The rest is history.

"It goes beyond making great shoes"

To Armando, entrepreneurs are problem solvers that work towards society's advancement. He speaks to how his mission translates into his products and his way of doing business. He discusses the crucial importance for companies and brands to be aligned with their values; consumers are increasingly becoming very sensitive to this.

"I thought this could be a celebration of not just me but [a celebration] of the collective energy of Africa and the diaspora."

Once he opened his shop at the Rockefeller Center, Armando made it a point to shine the light on other creatives of African descent. To him, it's important that designers learn to collaborate and not compete with each other. He is a perfect illustration of the Ubuntu philosophy - "I am because we are."