Young designer strives

The 23-year-old Xolani Gama likes being different and standing out from the crowd, that is why he designs his own outfits.

He began designing in 1999 when he used to sew backpacks.

He taught himself how to sew and got better with time.

“I decided to make myself a backpack for my schoolbooks because I didn’t like the ones that were on the market,” he said.

More people got interested in them, but he could only do a few at a time because he did not have a sewing machine.

Not having a sewing machine did not stop him, he continued and began making hats in 2013.

He made different hats using different fabrics and sold them to the community.

“Most people loved my hats and I received a lot of support.”

He then proceeded to sewing shirts and only began using a sewing machine this year.

“A woman named Nelly taught me how to use a sewing machine and it has helped a great deal,” Xolani said.

He said he can make outfits for men, women and children.

“I really want to take men’s fashion to another level, using our South African heritage,” Xolani said.

He draws his inspiration from vintage clothes and old military uniforms.

Originally from Warden, he moved to Standerton in 2013 to study at the Gert Sibande College. He is currently doing his second year in Office Administration.

“I live with my older brother, Sifiso Gama, who encourages me to work harder everyday.”

He said his brother inspires him to strive for success and supports him in everything he does.

“Our parents are both deceased and Sifiso is like a mother and a father to me.”

Xolani is also a poet and one of his poems was heard on one of the radio stations in KwaZulu Natal.

“My stage name is Xoske de nkondlo and they also call me Xoske de designer because of my designs,” Xolani said.

He wants to open a shop where he can sell his pieces after finishing his studies.

“I am proudly representing the township and want to show people that we are creative and productive.”