What began as a childhood fascination has blossomed into a successful business for Nomcebo Ntuli from Doringkop.

Her wire crafting skills, learned from her father, now help her support her family while keeping a cherished tradition alive.

As a child, Ntuli would often fiddle with her father’s projects when he was not around.

“When he noticed someone had touched his work and found out it was me, he never got angry or erased it. He would simply continue the pattern. As a little girl, I felt so proud to be part of my daddy’s artwork,” said the 39-year-old mother of four.

Today, she makes beautiful household decorations, wired pots, trays and plates, selling them and displaying her work at the African Art Centre, Imi Uwe and Mash.T studio.

She also takes special orders for events and personalised gifts.

After matriculating in 2004 at Njubanjuba Secondary in Maphumulo, Ntuli had dreams of joining law enforcement. However, life had other plans. She started worked in a clothing store in Durban but lost her job.

“During Covid, I asked my father to train me properly. He agreed, but it was tough. He made me wire pots again and again until I cried. But by the end of the year, I had started making sales. He later took me to Durban and introduced me to his customers. From that day I never looked back,” she said.

Now, she dreams of growing her business and reaching more customers.

“This is more than just a way to earn money – it is my father’s legacy. He raised us with the income from wire crafting, and I want to keep that alive. That is why I have started teaching my children and nephews, hoping one of them will carry on this work. It means a lot to me,” she said.

For orders or enquiries, contact Nomcebo at nomcebotgirl4@gmail.com or WhatsApp at 065 841 0054.

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