Lulama Ngobeni (23) from Elim Mabobo has transformed what was intended to be a gap year after completing school into an inspiring journey. She turned her crafting skills into a thriving business.

Everything began in 2020 when her plans to further her studies were unexpectedly put on hold, and she decided to take up crocheting. She quickly developed a deep love for this craft and, with unwavering determination, embarked on a whole different path as a self-taught crochetpreneur. She breathed life into her brand and established her own business, named Kova Tintswalos Vogue.

Every creative soul has an inspiration, and for Lulama, renowned fashion designer Shikombiso Bila was the one who ignited her passion for creativity. “Waking up every day to sit around doing nothing eventually made me friends with wool and crocheting. My mom was curious and wanted to see what I was creating. The result was a cozy woollen top. I shared it on Facebook, and soon after, people began placing orders,” she explained.

Her creations mainly include crop tops, bikinis, and headpieces, but one of the most popular items in her collection is the xibelani*, made of wool.

Lulama mentioned that she has received overwhelming support from her clients. While some may attempt to negotiate prices, they consistently praise her exceptional work. Her aspirations include becoming a fashion designer, dressing celebrities, and sponsoring events. She said, “I believe in myself to such an extent that when someone requests something I have not done before, I accept the order without hesitation. I take on the task, and it turns out well. Kids really love acclaimed singer Sho Madjozi’s style, so they convince their parents to buy them xibelani.”

* A xibelani is a skirt traditionally worn by Tsonga women during special functions and gatherings and forms an integral part of the xibelani dance, which is a traditional and indigenous dance performed exclusively by Tsonga women.