Clover Mama Africa programme sews a path forward for Soweto man
27-year-old Mandla Maxaulana is discovering a passion he never expected, one he hopes will not only change his life, but also the lives of those around him.
When Mandla Maxaulana (27) learned about a Clover Mama Africa programme that would teach him the skill of sewing, his intrigue had him grab at the opportunity.
He quickly found the perfect seat behind a sewing machine at the Auckland Park–based Bernina head office. “I’ve always been interested in how clothes are made, not just the fashion, but the precision behind manufacturing, whether it’s mass production or boutique garments.”
Threads of hope, heritage, and ambition for Clover Mama sewing student
Maxaulana had only seen sewing online, on Youtube videos. This is his first time working with an actual machine, but, in just a few days within the programme, he has learnt how to operate sewing and overlocker machines, cut patterns, and now understands the fundamentals of garment construction. “It hasn’t been overwhelming, but it’s been fun. Every day something new makes more sense.”
Maxaulana dreams big. Ten years from now, he hopes to run a manufacturing company that keeps textile production within South Africa, with his research showing how local cotton often gets exported raw, only to return as expensive designer products. “We should be making those products here.”
His ambitions also extend beyond himself, hoping to inspire young people of his community of Snake Park, Soweto, to take the first step – be it in sewing, photography, or any skill. “It’s about effort. Start with what you have, and let that first step lead you forward.”
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He speaks with deep gratitude for Linda Venter, the instructor leading the programme. “Where I’m from, we’re not exposed to opportunities like this. She sees our interest and guides us beyond the basics.”
Maxaulana plans to take what he’s learned back to his community, supporting peers, building clothing brands, and helping turn ideas into garments. “If we share skills, more kids will believe effort can change their future.”
For him, the Clover Mama Africa programme is not just teaching sewing; it’s stitching together possibility, purpose, and a path forward for many more to come.
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