On putting up your own business as told by Entrepreneur Jojo Bragais

Filipino shoemaker Jojo Bragais knows too well that no success came in easy. Started as a familiar face in the pageant scene for his classic pieces which later became the official shoes of the Binibining Pilipinas, he is now expanding and going beyond the glamorous pageant staple.

“It’s actually an accidental passion. I never really see myself doing shoes when I started. It’s a mix story of depression, hope and a new beginning.”

Bragais Shoes

Today, Bragais Shoes also produces casual footwear, aside from their signature heels and platforms. Each design carefully curated for the comfort and style of customers, which make them must-haves in the wardrobe.

His business is a product of hard work and perseverance. It’s true because as he told us, he is still working on new stuff for it even during ECQ.

“I’m working even in this ECQ. We all have the luxury of time. I made use of the time to plan out about new ways to communicate with the customers since things will surely be different after this ECQ. I also find ways to design new shoes that could be released later this year.”

Jojo’s Fashion icons

Jojo also shared the fashion icons he looks up to when he first started creating, “Michael Cinco and Rocky gathercole. Because both of them are Filipinos and are known internationally. I dream of going international also though I had some international clients already I wanted to be as stable like them.”

He has a message for those who also eyes a business of their own someday. For him, the most important opinion comes from yourself and one should never doubt that.

“First, it’s a decision. Commit to that decision because if you’re committed, you won’t easily quit. Be open for criticisms and be able to have a good judgement of which are the good ones and those that you need to ignore.”

We can take this in many aspects aside from business. Trust him, sometimes you will be surprised that you were able to do things which you never thought you could.

Check out her works here!