Twenty-four-old Melody Ngoma launched a clothing label in Marondera last week. Melb, a design label by a novice in designing spheres, was warmly received at the official launch that was attended by Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises and Co-operative Development permanent secretary, Evelyn Ndlovu.

Ndlovu commended the upstart for her remarkable progress.

"When we see designs such as the ones we have witnessed here, as a ministry we see potential and business and I have no doubt Melb will rise to become an design of repute in Africa and the rest of the world.

"What we have seen here is the beginning of bigger things. As a ministry, we will do everything to ensure that this young woman realises her dreams," said Ndlovu, in her speech at the ceremony.

Ngoma recently negotiated the final hurdle to a four-year Clothing Design Technology Honours degree at the Chinhoyi University of Technology.

Born in Marondera, Ngoma attended Eagle Primary and Secondary schools before enrolling at Cherutombo High School for her Advanced Level studies.

Asked why she took up designing, Ngoma said this was her way of expressing her creativity.

"Designing is a gate pass to expression of creativity within an individual. As an evening wear designer, I would like to give an impact of elegance, sophistication and modernity to ladies," she said.

Stars and waterfalls serve as an inspiration to the budding fashion designer as demonstrated by the drapes and frocks on most of her products.