A BUSINESSWOMAN has described overcoming ageism, racism and sexism to open an international-themed restaurant-bar.

The former Brewery Tap in North Road has been taken over by entrepreneur Ashley Moyo and reopened as Komplas.

Miss Moyo is originally from South Africa and was inspired to start the business by her late brother who was also a restaurateur.

But she said she faced obstacles along the way.

The 27-year-old, who has had her dream for six years, said: “Being so young I faced ageism, being African I faced racism and being a woman I faced sexism.

“As a black woman growing up, you meet things like this but it’s about overcoming them and trying to do what you can.

“Even here you get stuff just because you are a woman – some people speak down to you and think you don’t know what you are doing.

“Then again you meet certain people who are very kind and you keep them close.

“I can only hope for the best. Let’s hope people’s attitudes open up. It has come with some challenges.”

She hopes her “young” restaurant as one which will “blossom” over time.

Explaining the name Komplas, which means solid or rigid, Miss Moyo added: “I chose this name is because I believe this restaurant will grow into something beautiful.”

The four-floor venue has had a full refit with a ground floor bar with red booth seating and bar, a spiral staircase leading to the basement bar, a first-floor dining area with booths and tables, and a top-floor kitchen.

Cuisine includes a range of Indonesian and Malaysian dishes, with some South African specialities.

Miss Moyo said: “Because I’m originally from South Africa, that’s what inspired the menu, but I also have a love for Asian food.”

The restaurant has a creative concept with black and red colour theme which was designed by Miss Moyo herself.

Miss Moyo said: “I drafted and designed everything myself from scratch, choosing the colours, the tiling, even the staircase from the vision I had.”

Always having a passion for food and the entertainment industry, she decided to combine the two together creating a dynamic duo.

Afrobeat, open mic, student and Latin nights are among the events to be held at the restaurant.

Miss Moyo said: “I did not want it to just be a place to eat, but a place where people can stay for as long as they want.”

She is happy with the results of Komplas and encourages other would-be entrepreneurs to follow their dreams.

Inviting the public to come and experience Komplas for themselves, Miss Moyo is offering a money-back guarantee if customers are not satisfied.