In the vibrant town of Mbombela, South Africa, one woman is reshaping the fashion industry while promoting sustainability. Xolile Mabuza, the visionary behind Tendalo Trading, stands as a beacon of resilience and purpose. A few years ago, Mabuza launched her business with a unique idea – transforming discarded rubber tubes from car, truck, and tractor tyres into eco-friendly, stylish, and durable bags. Her innovative approach has not only breathed new life into old materials but also into her entrepreneurial journey.
Mabuza’s entry into the world of business was deeply personal. Driven by the need to honor her late grandmother, a skilled seamstress, she found healing in the recycling process. The act of washing and sewing rubber tubes became a symbolic ritual for her.
“I love being in this business because recycling and upcycling rubber tubes is healing to me. Washing rubber tubes feels like cleansing my soul and sewing them together feels like sewing all the broken pieces in me back together,” Mabuza reflects.
Her business isn’t just about creating bags; it’s a mission. Mabuza is deeply committed to sustainable fashion and promoting responsible consumption, aligning her business with the global push for climate action. Beyond her personal connection to upcycling, she takes immense pride in training and creating jobs for young people, particularly women, in her community. Mabuza firmly believes that cultural and creative industries have the power to elevate communities by showcasing creativity and fostering cultural exploration, all while providing livelihoods.
However, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Like many new entrepreneurs, Mabuza faced difficulties in setting up her business, from sourcing the right equipment to making her first sales. But her determination and passion for her craft have been the driving forces behind her success.
Her innovative mindset and potential for growth caught the attention of Création Africa, a prestigious entrepreneurship programme aimed at empowering creative businesses across the continent. Mabuza and Tendalo Trading were selected as one of the top 12 finalists for incubation, seed funding, and networking opportunities with investors.
“Through the Création Africa programme, I get to learn the fundamentals about running a successful business. I’m excited about the opportunity to grow my brand visibility, collaborate, and upscale my business,” Mabuza shares.
As Mabuza continues to grow her brand, she remains an inspiring example of how creativity and purpose can drive both personal and professional success. Through Tendalo Trading, she is not just making eco-friendly bags, but she is also sewing the fabric of a more sustainable future for South Africa’s youth.