A 19-year-old young entrepreneur from Mamelodi has started a clothing brand aimed inspired by youth culture, identity, and pride in were he comes from.

Gift Makhubela from Mahube Valley in Mamelodi East is the founder of Captain Play Apparel clothing brand, a street wear brand founded in 2022.

Makhubela said the brand release is a “Mamelodi T-Shirt,” designed to represent the streets, people, and culture of Mamelodi.

“I want people to feel proud when they wear Captain Play,” said Makhubela. “The brand is made for Mamelodi residents.”

Mamelodi has a strong culture full of talent, energy, style, music, creativity, and resilience, and people from here know how to create something from nothing.

Makhubela continued, saying, “The pride of Mamelodi is about representing where we come from with confidence, no matter the challenges. I wanted to create clothing that gives people something they can wear proudly and say, ‘This is home, this is us’.”

He added that he is inspired by Thatiso Dube, the founder of the successful GalXBoy brand, who also comes from Mamelodi and built a successful brand.

Captain Play is a reminder that big brands can come from Mamelodi. He added that his love for clothes and branding started at the age of 15, when he began noticing how fashion can express identity, confidence, and lifestyle.

His main goal is to see his clothing brand growing into a respected fashion brand with at least one store, online presence, and influence across South Africa.

“I also see myself creating opportunities for other young people through business, fashion, and creative projects,” said Makhubela.

His message to upcoming designers or entrepreneurs in Mamelodi is to start with what you have and stay consistent.

“Do not wait for perfect conditions. Believe in your ideas, keep learning, take yourself seriously, and never let where you come from limit where you can go,” he said.

He encouraged young and upcoming entrepreneurs never to be discouraged by your background, but rather always be inspired by your future and where you want to see yourself.
Makhubela concluded that Mamelodi has lots of talent and needs more leaders, creators, and business owners.

“To the youth of Mamelodi: your future is worth more than temporary choices. Stay focused, protect your mind, and build something positive. Choose growth over destruction.”

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