This article originally appeared on https://quickdash.app/zohmyoga/

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I have a South African name, Zinzi. I was born in the Philippines then moved to Hong Kong. I started teaching yoga in 2014 and turned it into an occupation, having taught thousands of classes since. My passions include books, languages, international cuisine, music, visual and performing arts.

What made you start your company?

Yoga’s popularity has continued to increase especially in major cities like Hong Kong. As a yoga teacher and long-time practitioner I’ve dreamt of changing the world through yoga, one yoga mat a time. I also saw an opportunity to express myself and what I do freely, so I created my own brand.

Tell me about your product and brand?

In line with my personal vision, I decided to create my own yoga mat brand, Zohm. With the pandemic and the closure of yoga studios last year, everyone shifted to a home-based yoga practice so it felt like it was the proper time. From 2010 I’ve practiced on different yoga mats, experienced different materials, played with different textures and thicknesses. I couldn’t find one that I really, really like or I was willing to pay the price point for. With Zohm, I am able to explore and weave in all the features that I enjoy and that I would recommend to my students or any practitioner, whether beginner or advanced. 

I wanted to steer clear of the slippery PVC or TPE and chose a safer and environmentally-conscious material. I also didn’t want a yoga mat that is too plain or too distracting so my partner and I studied color for therapy and designed our own artwork. I also wanted to have more real estate space for my practice while protecting my knees and joints. (Yes, I am quite finicky about my requirements!) And so, we came up with the Zohm Dreamscape Collection suede yoga mat. Using a natural tree rubber base, it is longer and wider than most regular mats, comfortably thick and complements all types of yoga practice. Best of all the design is uniquely ours!

What struggles have you faced when starting up a business?

I didn’t have any background in business so I had to learn as I went. Creating and designing a yoga mat was just the beginning. And then you start to consider packaging, suppliers, logistics, social media marketing….

How did you overcome them?

Research, study and plan! I also asked for advice from other business owners and collaborated with like-minded individuals. There is always room to improve and refine.

Any advice for others just getting started?

Invest in something that you believe in. Be authentic in your work and most importantly, do your research.

Do you have a favourite quote?

“Creativity takes courage.”

You can find out more info about Zohm Yoga under Shop page or click here.