Meet the Makers

Hello, my name is Shemy. I live in Johannesburg's central business district (CBD). I started working for Kalunza as a seamstress. Now I manage the team of seamstresses and embroiderers, which is a great honor, but also a big responsibility, because quality is one of the most important criteria for our brand. My dream is to support Kalunza's expansion for as long as possible.

 

My name is Mandla. I was one of the first artisans to work for Kalunza. This collaboration, which lasted several years, was decisive for me because it allowed me to significantly grow my business. Kalunza provided me with a lot of work. In 2025, I decided to move abroad with my family. I will never forget this happy time with Kalunza. I am very grateful to them.

 

My name is Memory. I’m 27 years old. I’ve got 2 children who are living out of the country with my parents. When I was a little girl, I dreamed of being able to create dresses and I loved watching my mother sewing. My dream came true four years ago, when I had the opportunity to join the team of seamstresses in the workshop where I work today. This is where I learned all the sewing and trimming techniques. My dream, that I share with a few colleagues, is to have our own sewing workshop in a few years.

 

My name is Nomvebo. I am 25 years old. I live in a suburb of Johannesburg. I started sewing alongside my mother and my aunts who had opened a sewing shop in the village where we lived. I was fascinated by the speed they took to create a suit from just a few pieces of fabric. At 17 years old, I decided to become a sewer and I had the chance to learn, for 2 years, the techniques of sewing in a sewing school. I am very proud to collaborate now on Kalunza's creations. I do my best to live up to the team's expectations in terms of quality. That’s our daily challenge.

 

 

Hello, my name is Gladys. I am 38-year-old. I am the proud mother of 3 kids who live with me and my husband in Johannesburg. I am an all-rounder machinist and designer for Kalunza. I learnt how to saw in one of the factories I used to work for in the past. I have a passion for design. Therefore, I do this job now. 

 

My dream is to continue growing daily in this industry.