Kayamandi: Thandiswa

Kayamandi: Thandiswa

Fashion and body

Thandiswa is a seamstress based in Kayamandi. She learned how to use a sewing machine at the Siyazama project at the Legacy Centre, and from there developed an interest in making clothing. She makes original traditional Xhosa outfits for cultural rituals (e.g. makoti outfits worn by newly wed women), sells second-hand clothing and does traditional beadwork. She runs her small business from her shack, and also sells items door to door in the township. She finds her inspiration from Xhosa culture, and often draws her fashion designs from memory.

Thandiswa