Local crafter on the ball
If you are all about locally produced products and supporting local crafters, you have to get down to the Christmas Country Fair on Wednesday 6 November and Thursday 7 November at the Collisheen Estate near Ballito to see Dumi Buthelezi's products first-hand.
IF you are all about locally produced products and supporting local crafters, you have to get down to the Christmas Country Fair on Wednesday 6 November and Thursday 7 November at the Collisheen Estate near Ballito to see Dumi Buthelezi’s products first-hand.
Hand-painted dresses, shorts and t-shirts, for children from three months old to 12 years old, as bright as Dumi’s personality, will be on offer at the fair.
Now a successful businessman and owner of Doomie-B, Dumi’s journey began with humble beginnings.
“I worked for a factory and started a pattern-making course while there. I then moved on to the Fabric Paint Shop in Morningside, where I learned to mix colours and what to use to preserve it,” he said.
He then met Janet Brown at the Essenwood Market, who later put him onto the managing director of the House and Garden Show.
In 1999 Dumi had his first stall at the show and has had one each year since then. He also exhibits at many other festivals such as the Hilton Festival.
Born and bred in the Drakensberg, Dumi made his way to Durban when he decided it was time to move onto things bigger and better.
“I’ve always loved Durban and I still do,” he said.
Growing up, Dumi never thought he would have his own business; “My big dream was always to be on radio, which I have accomplished, but I enjoy every minute of being my own boss.”
He said the joy he brings people through his clothing is the ultimate reward. “I love making something unique and it’s so beautiful to see how people get excited.
“Most of my clients are from overseas and they always send me photos of their children wearing my range.
“I have also been very fortunate to have made a wonderful friend, Karin Bossert. We travel everywhere together,” he said.
Dumi said he would love to teach people his craft. Contact him on doomieb@gmail.com or visit his stall at uShaka Marine World’s Village Walk Craft Market.
Entry to the Christmas Country Fair is R40 a person, which includes tea or coffee and snacks. A harvest table lunch at R50 a person will also be on offer.
