Driven by passion and a dream to combat unemployment, a local aspiring fashion designer has started his own clothing brand.

Heavy Swag (HVY SWG) is owned by Bonginkosi Mthimunye. This local designer is as bright as he is innovative as he taught himself how to sew using his late grandmother’s machine.

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The name HVY SWG was inspired by his body build. He designs trousers, shirts, tracksuits, skirts and face masks.
Mthimunye said, “I tailor everything except T-shirts.

For those, I only do the printing. I used to design for myself only, until someone told me that they loved my designs and they think other people would too. That is when I started making clothes to sell and the public loved it”.

He believes that one day he will be able to employ more people and make a difference in his community.

“After dropping out of fashion design school due to unforeseen challenges, I decided to keep going and not feel sorry for myself. I knew my plans and I knew where I wanted to go. The only option for me to reach my goal was to keep working.”

According to him, constantly delivering good service to his clients is what has kept the business going.
Over the past five years since HVY SWG opened its doors, it has gone from strength to strength.

“I now supply items to local schools and businesses. I have employed one person who will shortly become a business partner. I hope that we will be able to employ more people,” he said.

It has not always been easy for Mthimunye. He lost his grandmother with whom he stayed as his parents are not based in Mashishing.

“I have to make sure that I pay rent, buy material and buy electricity. I need to ensure that I raise funds for renting the printing machines too. We sometimes face challenges, though we always find a way to solve them.”

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Mthimunye’s store is located at Grans Street (Stand no 917/11) in Mashishing. Contact him on 066-184-0703 for orders, designs and tailoring.

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