Designer bags another accolade
Her advice to others is to believe in your own work, and others will also believe in you and your product.
Award winning fashion designer, Makhosi Ntshangase of the South Coast was recently recognised by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (Edtea) in the Best Women Owned and Managed Business of the year category.
She walked away with R100 000 in cash.
Ntshangase said the award serves as an endorsement that her business, Sistas Felas is growing and her hard work is being acknowledged.
“It makes me feel accepted in the business world, and of course internationally,” said Ntshangase.
She has received many accolades over the years, including the Durban July Fashion Designer award in 2021.
“In 2022 I was recognised as one of the top three women in business in KwaZulu-Natal at the Presidential SMME and Cooperative Awards. Again that same year I won a Shero Awards from Gagasi FM in the Creative Arts Category. I also bagged another in the 1KZN Next Billionaires Awards for Business Woman of the Year,” Ntshangaqse said, counting just a few of her recent achievements.
She said winning the award from Edtea has opened doors, and it was an opportunity for job creation in her business.
“We will be adding a new division and purchasing new equipment for staff to increase production. This is the big breakthrough we’ve been waiting for,” she added.
Ntshangase mentioned how she started her business.
“In 2018 while at design school at Lindiwe Khuzwayo Fashion Academy, I designed and wore my first garment at the Dundee July where I won my first award – Most Creative and Best Female Wear Award. My prize was R30 000 cash which I used towards funding my graduation fashion show and bought my first sewing machine. I’ve never looked back. It’s been win after win and I’m grateful, and I will never take it for granted. What’s even more exciting is that Ntshangase is recognised internationally and has received many invitations to showcase her work abroad, at fashion shows and trade expos.
“I had the opportunity to participate in import and export programmes which resulted in me designing and dressing Miss Seychelles Universe. I am grateful and hope other young designers get the same opportunities.
Her advice to the youth and young entrepreneurs is: “Before you get into business, find your personal identity. Once you have found your identity, then find your business identity. Be honest to your craft and believe in it. If you believe in your own work, others will also believe in you and your product.”
She also reminded small businesses on the importance of compliance and keeping a record of their business.
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