In 2019, Lufuno Netshithuthuni was shopping at a Pretoria fashion outlet, looking for a pair of traditional shoes to wear to a family event. The shoes she saw, however, were not appealing to her, so she decided to buy two plain pairs of tekkies - one pair for herself and the other for her sister - and decorate them herself.
Lufuno, who hails from Tshivhulani outside Thohoyandou, had no intention of starting a business, but when she posted her unique creations on social media, the response was overwhelming. And that was how everything started for her. Today, she is a reputable traditional-sneaker designer who recently won a Golden Shield Heritage award, hosted by the National Heritage Council, for Corporate Heritage Management.
Lufuno, who graduated in nature conservation from the University of South Africa in 2018, identified the gap between what customers need and what her brand could accomplish, and decided to start Funo Designs. Her creations have become a hit in the shoe market and are in demand all over the country.
"We specialise in creatively designing unique and innovative modern traditional sneakers for women from all cultural backgrounds who love cultural fashion. This was inspired by the growing entrenchment of traditional fashion by middle-class women in both rural and urban areas, including big cities. Our company currently runs its operations with three staff members operating from a garage, but we plan to expand to other parts of Limpopo and the country."
Lufuno says she is living proof that everything is possible if one has the desire to succeed. "Look at the business gaps and do not hesitate to take a chance. We started very small – from nothing - but doors are opening for us today. We cannot keep on complaining about unemployment when we can do something to earn a living," she says.
Those interested in her trendy sneakers can visit the business at Stand 865, Phunda Maria and Tshififi Road, Ha-Dumasi, Thohoyandou.