WATCH: Middy Mazenge (37) from Kenilworth turns trash to gold

IF you think a box of matches, leather cut-offs and cartons for milk, mageu and maas are just trash, think again because Middy Mazenge (37) from Kenilworth turns them into jewellery and handbags.

She collects them wherever she goes and makes unique jewellery and handbags for her company, Zidl’Ekhaya. Middy was a telephonic betting consultant at Turffontein Racecourse and she was doing this craft part-time in 2005. When she was retrenched it became a livelihood.

“I am the owner and creative director of Zidl’Ekhaya. I go to town and collect the leather cut-offs and make tussle earrings. Wherever I go, I collect boxes of matches and cartons, I will cut them to make earrings, I also use pegs. Most of the material I use I collect. I will only buy hooks and glue,” explained Middy.

Although she has been doing this for years, Middy said there are struggles she needs to overcome.

“I am not yet exposed to people in my area. Also, people prefer the established outlets than me. These are authentic items and people need to trust me and buy from me in order for me to succeed.

“I always encourage people to wear these anytime because they are under the impression that you only wear these earrings when you go to weddings or traditional events,” she said.

To market herself, Middy often does pop-up markets in the area to showcase her goods. If you want to see what she is doing, visit her at Tramway Street, Kenilworth or call her on 073 034 1344.

WATCH:

Also Read:

Granny recycles to keep grandchild educated

For free daily local news in the south, visit our sister newspapers Alberton Record, Comaro Chronicle, Southern Courier and Get it Joburg South Magazine.

Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. You can also email our offices on cvdwalt@caxton.co.za, juliem@caxton.co.za or luckyt@caxton.co.za

Add us on WhatsApp today! Alberton Record: 060 644 5264 Comaro Chronicle: 079 427 8074 and Southern Courier: 079 404 5789.