By Seleoe Nonyane
Mojabeng Senekal-Ndebele has always had a strong passion for fashion.
It was therefore not surprising that she went on to establish a business that produces handbags from genuine leather. The brand is aptly named Lioness.
The enterprise was established in 2017 and so far it has been doing well in both Lesotho and neighbouring South Africa.
Senekal-Ndebele’s handbags are a mixture of vibrant colours, different sizes, and unique shapes; from travel-size bags perfect for holidays to office bags designed to accommodate laptops and essentials. Her creations cater for all needs.
She says the Lioness range is an embodiment of her authenticity that combines her love for fashion and individualism.
“I design each bag with a focus on quality, ensuring that women receive the very best.
“My brand embodies the belief that women are powerful beings who deserve constant recognition,” she said.
She revealed that for durability and longevity she uses vegetable-tanned and oil-tanned leather.
Senekal-Ndebele said she went into crafting after being inspired by her husband who she described as ‘talented’, with an impressive portfolio in hand leather crafts.
She believes that handcrafted leather is a superior choice, surpassing machine-made alternatives in terms of skill and quality.
“Handmade leather showcases careful attention to detail, minimizing the chances of oversight.
“Skilled leatherworkers possess a certain touch that machines can never replicate, resulting in products that can last for decades,” she said.
The determined entrepreneur said what sets her brand from other handbags is the empowering message inscribed for the women who embrace them.
“Each woman is reminded of her worth and fearless nature, ensuring that these bags resonate with every African woman who carries them.”
Senekal-Ndebele said running a business is a satisfying experience, although she indicated it comes with a lot of demands such as being able to access the right market.
She emphasized that understanding, reaching, and influencing the target audience are very important in running a successful business.
She further encouraged aspiring young women to pursue businesses that ignite their fervor, as passion becomes the driving force of a journey filled with ups and downs.
Senekal-Ndebele hopes to one day expand the Lioness range across the African continent, thus ensuring that every woman can own a genuine leather handbag brimming with confidence and crafted with love.
As leather products may be known to depreciate, she advises her clients to regularly condition the bags to increase their longevity. Mojabeng can be contacted on +27662349391
