Lonwabo Jobodwana, 33, started making jewellery as a hobby before it soon blossomed into a business that creates original pieces.
The graphic design graduate, who hails from King William’s Town, said she had started her business, Kuhle Apha, without any capital.
“During my first year of studying graphic design in Cape Town, I was introduced by a friend to a bead shop in Long Street. After realising I could make my own earrings, there was an immediate need to create original pieces that suited me and what I represented.
“As one who had started with little to no capital, I have been accustomed to using the most affordable beads and material, even making my own beads with clay at times,” she said.
Jobodwana, who is popularly known for her range of Sshweshwe earrings, said that her earrings were inspired by the past, present and the future.
“I’m a very happy person and would love to give a bit of love and happiness to everyone, so every time I see someone’s face, I get inspired. I guess each earring is another face I have seen, a friend I have made or a friend I will make in the future through my craft. Each design of my jewelry has its own story to tell,” she said. Jobodwana.
She said without waiting for employment, the youth can create jobs for themselves through their passion.
“I sell largely on online social platforms using as much free advertising as I can.
“Because of my graphic design background, I design my own adverts and marketing tools. I print and hand out my own flyers, catalogues or posters. I create my own luck every day and I come up with new ways and places to sell.
“I encourage anyone who is in the arts and is struggling to find employment, or cannot make ends meet to join me. and my other artist friends who create jewellery. As a collective we can create lots of employment opportunities.” said Jobodwana.
Kuhle Apha can be found on Facebook and Instagram or alternatively contact Jobodwana at kuhleapha@icloud.com or 081-360-5992.
