What’s your name and designation?

My name is Naven Rajah, and I’m the Director at Peige 360.

Tell us about your journey. How did you get started with your business and what inspired you to do so?

I started my career over 20 years ago venturing in the events industry. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and the events sector was severely impacted, I realised it was the perfect moment to merge my creative side with my passion for technology.

This turning point inspired me to establish Peige 360. My goal was simple, to combine technical expertise with innovative design to create websites that work seamlessly to deliver results for my clients.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting your business and how did you overcome them?

In the early days, gaining credibility in a competitive market with limited resources was a significant challenge. I overcame this by focusing on delivering exceptional quality and building strong, genuine relationships with clients. Persistence, continuous learning, and a commitment to excellence helped me navigate those early hurdles.

What unique aspects of doing business in South Africa would you highlight (good or bad)?

South Africa’s business environment is both challenging and inspiring. The diversity and resilience of the market push you to be inventive and resourceful, though economic uncertainties and infrastructural issues mean you often have to adapt quickly and think outside the box.

How do you differentiate your business from competitors?

We set ourselves apart by diving deep into the heart of our clients’ brands. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, we start each project with a thorough exploration of a client’s vision and market challenges. This approach allows us to craft websites that are not only visually compelling but are also strategically designed to engage users and drive results. By blending the latest technical innovations with a genuine artistic touch, we create digital experiences that are truly unique and tailored to each client’s goals.

What strategies have you found to be most effective in growing your customer base?

Building trust through word-of-mouth referrals has been incredibly effective. Additionally, targeted digital marketing and SEO efforts help us reach new audiences, while consistently delivering high-quality work ensures that our clients continue to recommend us to others.

What’s one mistake you made early on that you wish you could go back and fix?

I wish I had spent more time early on defining a clear brand identity. Establishing a strong, consistent voice from the beginning would have helped us communicate our value more effectively.

What’s the most rewarding part of being a business owner?

The most fulfilling part is witnessing how our work transforms our clients’ digital presence. Seeing businesses grow and knowing that our efforts have played a part in their success is truly rewarding.

How do you approach innovation and staying relevant in your industry?

I’m committed to continuous learning and staying updated on industry trends. I encourage a culture of experimentation within my team, which keeps us agile and ensures we’re always learning and innovating.

How has your business adapted to the digital age, and what advice would you give to others looking to do the same?

Digital innovation is at the heart of what we do. We’re always on the lookout for new tools and strategies that help us deliver seamless, engaging experiences for our users. Our team remains agile, continuously learning and adapting to emerging trends to ensure we stay ahead of the curve. For anyone navigating the digital landscape, I recommend building a solid technological foundation, staying curious, and being ready to pivot when needed, it’s essential for keeping ahead in a rapidly changing world.

What advice do you have for someone just starting a business in South Africa?

Stay resilient and adaptable. The South African market is demanding, but it’s also full of opportunities. Focus on quality, build genuine relationships, and always stay true to your vision. Every setback is a chance to learn and improve.

For more information, visit Peige 360’s listing.

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