An NR3 man who had a tough childhood has been able to turn his life around and create his very own clothing brand.  

Zakaria O’Leary Wilson, 24, was put into foster care at a young age, which made life hard for him.  

Norwich Evening News: Zakaria has designed the clothing using a nickname from his past Zakaria has designed the clothing using a nickname from his past (Image: teemil/Rapanui Clothing)

Zakaria was also bullied during high school which made life hard for him.  

“I really wanted to make something of myself. 

“My foster family and my friends are now my support network and having them really has been the key to my success.” 

At the beginning of 2023 Zakaria decided he would launch his own clothing line called ZEECKO – the brand name is inspired by a nickname from his past.  

Norwich Evening News: Zakaria says that his clothing is all made of brilliant materialZakaria says that his clothing is all made of brilliant material (Image: teemil/Rapanui Clothing)

He said: “A friend told me that if I had an idea, I should run with it and Teemill are offering people the chance to start their own brand through them.  

“It has been absolutely incredible to see people wearing clothes that I designed – and its better still when I get good feedback from customers. 

“I think everyone should own a piece of my clothing because I have unique designs and the material used is fantastic.” 

He plans to introduce new garments each season as he thinks it is important to have something to wear no matter what the weather. 

Norwich Evening News: Zakaria is hoping that his brand will become very popular Zakaria is hoping that his brand will become very popular (Image: Zakaria O'Leary Wilson)

He is hopeful that he can make his brand popular and then put the money he earns into helping people.  

He said: “I believe if you don’t want to fail then you won’t.” 

Zakaria’s clothes are currently available from zeecko.teemill.com and he hopes of owning his own domain one day in the near future.  

Norwich Evening News: Zakaria will be designing clothing for all seasons Zakaria will be designing clothing for all seasons (Image: teemil/Rapanui Clothing)