We had the good fortune of connecting with Andre du Toit and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andre, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
My perspective on Work Life Balance has changed substantially over the years. Early on in my career, I believed that work was a means to fulfill my financial obligations. After a few decades at the grindstone, my more recent philosophy on the subject is that work is part of life, and life is part of work. I don’t really separate the two. Creative skills developed outside of work, through an interest in art, travel and fashion have influenced my career substantially, as well as analytical, and relationship building skills required in sourcing have benefited my life outside of work. Work and life are so completely intertwined that I don’t believe they should be separated. The two are mutually beneficial. I’m never not thinking about any current projects, and ranges as much as I’m never not thinking about my wife and kids. I believe you have to enjoy what you’re doing in work…and in life

What should our readers know about your business?
Natterjacks has been in business since 1989, and online since 2007. Over this time, Streetwear/Skate brands have become more and more limited. From the brands allocated budgets to the amount of quality commercial options available. We decided to solve some of the challenges by creating our own brands, to compliment our ever evolving assortment. Our new business Ubizo ltd, sources merchandise for our developing brands.
Sadfrog is a brand based on the sadfrog character initially created for the Natterjacks own brand merchandise. (A Natterjack is a local toad species) The character was so well received, that we created a brand around it. The frog is sad because of the state of current affairs, be it environmental or socio-economic issues around the world. Sadfrog encourages good practice and global problem solving in a fun and tongue in cheek way.

Lowbrow is based on the Character Art of local Kingston Artist Justin Schwartz.

The third, our foundation brand is ūBizo. Translated in isiZulu ūBizo means “the calling”, associated with Spiritual calling experienced by Sangoma. In Africa, the Sangoma in an intermediary for the ancestors, and sacred spirits. A wanderer between the worlds, the practitioner of herbal medicine: a healing shaman, or for some, a feared witch doctor! ūBizo is a celebration of Global esoteric Folklore.

We have established a cult following of these three brands through Natterjacks. We have also recently created a D2C channel through ecom sites for each brand.

https://ubizo.co.uk/
https://sadfrog.co.uk/
https://www.boyishmind.com/collections/lowbrow-clothing

We have also booked spaces at trade shows through the summer, to expose the brands to prospective buyers, with wholesale strategy in place.

It’s early days for our brand portfolio, but the sales reads have been extremely positive, so we have a long exciting runway ahead!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Kingston is a town in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, southwest London, England. It is situated on the River Thames 10 miles southwest of Central London. It is notable as the ancient market town in which Saxon kings were crowned and today is the administrative centre of the Royal Borough. A good way to start the weekend in Kingston would be an early morning walk/run along the river, followed by a coffee, watching the Kingston Rowing club practice, until the stores open.
Kingston is one of the biggest retail centres in the UK, receiving 18 million visitors a year. Apart from the high street, and independent retail mix, the ancient market still trades fresh produce and street food daily. The restaurants and bars along the river are definitely worth a visit, preferably over sunset cocktails and or a few pints.
Hampton Court palace is about a mile up stream along the river. Built in the early sixteenth century and became one of Henry VIII’s favourite residences. The palace and the surrounding deer filled bushy park are also well worth a visit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Andy Beagley, owner of Lotmod Ltd, trading as Natterjacks. When immigrating from Africa to the United Kingdom, Andy and his family welcomed me and my family into his home, until we were settled and self sufficient. We had alot of admin to take care of, from finding suitable schools for our two sons, to finding a family home. Andy and his wife Nicky were so encouraging and supportive.


Website: https://ubizo.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ubizobrand/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andredutoitbuyer/

Other: https://sadfrog.co.uk/ https://www.natterjacks.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sadfrog_brand/ https://www.instagram.com/dredutoit/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.