Khuthadzo Magada is pursuing his dream as a fashion designer

Lufuno Magada, a 34-year-old entrepreneur from Nzhelele Ha-Rabali Matanda, is the proud owner of Moon Fashion Design and Embroidery. His fashion creations are not just garments but expressions of artistry and cultural heritage, blending modern trends with African tradition. His designs cater to a diverse clientele, ranging from casual wear to haute couture.

Despite initially pursuing studies in engineering at Vhembe TVET College after completing his matric at Nngweni Secondary School, Magada's passion for fashion led him down a different path. Rather than waiting for opportunities to come to him, he took matters into his own hands and pursued his dream of becoming a fashion designer.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, I started sewing face masks. It was not easy because it was during lockdown, and I was struggling to get materials. I did not go to school for fashion design, but I believe that fashion designing runs in my family, and sewing is in my blood. My mother, my aunt, and my grandmother are fashion designers, so I learnt a lot from them.”

Lufuno highlighted the role of social media in driving his brand forward. “The fashion industry is a niche in my community, but I receive a lot of support from local people. I am inspired by the work of others and how it can be improved or done differently,” he added.

“Do not lose hope. If you cannot afford beauty school, fashion school, tech school, or whatever qualification your passion needs you to have, do some research and find out what resources are available to you. Go on the Internet and learn as much as you can. You can develop a unique skill set in this way and even gain enough knowledge to create something new in your field of interest. Wake up every morning and teach yourself something,” he said.

He also mentioned facing challenges when customers bring designs they have seen on the Internet. “This type of interaction has sometimes put doubt in me about my capabilities and left me wondering if I should give up. So, keeping myself motivated has been challenging,” he added.

Date:27 April 2024

By: Maanda Bele

Maanda  Bele, born and raised in Nzhelele Siloam, studied journalism at the Tshwane University of Technology.

He is passionate about current news and international affairs.

He worked as part of the Zoutnet team as an intern in 2017.

He is currently a freelance journalist specialising in news from the Vhembe district.

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