Homeless rise with the fabric of society

A PASSION for fashion is behind Thanduxolo Mpontshane and Mondli Xaba’s story of success. The pair have risen from life on the streets to start a business that lets them put their creativity to work as they modify ordinary denim jeans into artworks complete with paint and patchwork details.

Their design journey began when they completed an eight month skills programme at Durban North based organisation, The Wellness Centre Trust.

The course included sewing lessons said project manager, Franck Kiala.

“We provide the facilities and materials they need to get started. Now, that they have started their business, we are looking for a marketing professional to mentor them and teach them how to market their product,” he added.

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Putting his flair for design to use has given Mpontshane a second lease on life as produces unique designs.

“I like art, especially painting and drawing, so I decided to mix that with my new sewing skills. It was hard to learn to sew, but I kept trying. I want to have my own shop one day or to see my designs being sold at established retailers,” said Mpontshane.

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The duo are currently selling their jeans at flea markets and trying to build up a customer base and the stakes are high.

“This is what I need to do in order to eat,” said Xaba who hails from Hammersdale.

Xaba came to Durban to study after he matriculated.

“When we finish school, we don’t have any skills to use to earn a living. I became a qualified chef after I matriculated in 2004, but I couldn’t find a job, and because of the cycle of poverty, I ended up living on the streets working as an informal recycler along Umbilo Road. I lived on the streets for about 10 years,” he said.

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