Parents in rural communities often face an impossible choice between spending a day’s wages travelling to Stanger or Durban for school uniforms or sending their children to class without proper attire.

Sthandiwe Khomo saw this struggle firsthand and decided to fill the gap herself.

In 2024, the 45-year-old entrepreneur launched ZenQuniforms, a local uniform manufacturing business now supplying six schools in Maphumulo.

A year later, she finished 3rd in the iLembe Entrepreneur Competition for 2025.

Although Khomo never attended formal sewing classes, she learned the craft at an early age from her mother, a qualified seamstress.

“My mother taught us everything. This skill runs in our blood,” said Khomo.

Her mother still assists with large orders, keeping the business family-rooted.

What sets ZenQuniforms apart is not just its convenience, but its comprehensive offering. Every part of a school uniform – shirts, trousers, skirts, blazers – is made in-house. Embroidery is outsourced to support other local businesses.

Driven by a commitment to ensuring every pupil experiences dignity and comfort at school, Khomo founded ZenQuniforms under the guiding slogan: “Dressing the future with pride.”

“No child should feel less because their family can’t afford the trip to the city,” she said.

ZenQuniforms offers affordable uniforms that help overcome the financial barriers many rural families face, enabling children to attend school with confidence.

Beyond supplying uniforms, the business uplifts the community. Khomo employs two part-time women whom she personally trained. Each uniform sold helps restore a child’s confidence and supports a family.

“When women are empowered, entire families benefit,” said Khomo.

Success, however, has brought new challenges. With increasing orders, the current workspace is becoming cramped. Khomo dreams of expanding into a dedicated shop and factory in the Maphumulo CBD and is seeking financial assistance to grow her operations and reach more rural schools.

ZenQuniforms is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm and on weekends from 9am to 1pm, making it convenient for working parents to place orders.

For Khomo, every stitch weaves together education, empowerment and economic opportunity, one uniform at a time.

To place an order, contact Khomo at znibuseuniforms9@gmail.com.

Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.

Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.