Renaissance Design: Glorinah Mabaso’s Mission to Preserve African Heritage Through Creative Design

In the heart of Tshwane, Glorinah Mabaso stands as a passionate advocate for the preservation of ancient African heritage. Her business, Renaissance Design, is not just a creative agency; it’s a purpose-driven brand with a deep commitment to safeguarding the rich history and indigenous knowledge of Africa’s ancient kingdoms and civilizations.

Mabaso’s journey as an entrepreneur began with a profound sense of urgency. “This was my inspiration,” says Mabaso. “Now that I am a confirmed entrepreneur, I am fully and deeply invested in managing the convergence of my two greatest passions: African history and design. I see myself as a mouthpiece to the ancient world: a city girl with a rural heart.”

Renaissance Design is a pan-African multidisciplinary creative agency, specializing in pattern design that draws its essence from the deep wells of ancient Africa. Mabaso’s work transcends mere aesthetics, as she meticulously crafts bespoke pieces for modern living. Her pattern design expertise spans across various disciplines, including interior design, fashion, product design, and custom creations for corporate and hospitality brands.

Over the past five years, Mabaso has not only built a name for herself but has also garnered several accolades and formed impressive collaborations. Her portfolio includes creating distinctive patterns for Nando’s restaurants, a capsule collection for Trenery, and a custom print for the Flame Studios at Constitution Hill.

Renaissance Design’s impact extends beyond South Africa. It’s one of the 12 businesses selected for full immersion, incubation, and seed funding under the R24 million French initiative, Création Africa. This initiative aims to bolster the creative and cultural economies of Lesotho, Malawi, and South Africa.

Mabaso reflects on her experience with Création Africa with enthusiasm. “My Création Africa experience has been enlightening, and is opening doors for me, and for all 12 laureates,” she shares. “It has allowed me to share, absorb, and exchange insights and experiences with a dynamic group of experts and entrepreneurs across various cultural and creative sectors.”

As Mabaso continues to scale up her business, Renaissance Design remains a beacon of African heritage, bridging the ancient with the modern, and ensuring that the stories of Africa’s past continue to inspire future generations.