"The time has come for us to eradicate poverty by creating projects instead of just saying there are no jobs," said local dressmaker Tendani Mudimeli.
Mudimeli lives in Ramantsha in the Sinthumule area, but her business is based in Eltivillas, adjacent to Louis Trichardt. She specialises in traditional wedding attire, mwenda, uniforms, men's traditional T-shirts, misisi and dzingwana. Her satisfied customers call her "the queen of traditional clothes".
Mudimeli's journey into the world of sewing was not one she had initially envisioned, but it has become her life's passion and purpose. She originally worked as a professional nurse in various hospitals in Gauteng for 10 years before resigning in 2018.
Back home, she taught herself dressmaking skills, determined to overcome unemployment and poverty. "Running my own business has taught me valuable lessons in self-discipline, customer relations and financial management," she reflects. "I take great joy in creating clothes with my own hands and find immense satisfaction in my work."
For Mudimeli, being a fashion designer is more than just a job—it is a calling. "It feels like nothing is impossible," she says with enthusiasm. "The more I learn, the more I can do, and it's so much fun seeing all my products being worn and making people feel beautiful."
Her passion for sewing goes beyond just a profession; it is a therapeutic outlet that helps her navigate life's ups and downs. "All I can say is, run your own race, learn as much as you can, and practise as much as possible," she advises with a smile.