The United States Embassy in Maseru introduced one of their mwflesotho2023 participants heading out for the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders soon, Nthatuoa Makhapha, who founded a sustainable and luxury knitwear brand, Nthatuoa, which was established in 2019. She holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Namibia.
While introducing one of the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders participants, Nthatuoa Makhapa, the United States Embassy in Maseru took to their official social media handle recently to share the story of their participant Nthatuoa Makhapa, who founded a sustainable and luxury knitwear brand, Nthatuoa, which was established in 2019. She holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Namibia.
Nthatuoa Makhapa brand specializes in producing elevated, ready-to-wear knitted and crocheted staples. Using natural fibres such as cotton and bamboo is prioritized to promote sustainability and ensure the longevity of their garments. Nthatuoa briefly worked for the Lukhanyo Mdingi team, winners of the LVMH Prize 2021, specifically Karl Lagerfeld, offering crochet motifs for their esteemed brand. This collection was showcased at Paris Fashion Week in June 2022.
Recently, Nthatuoa started working with Munkus, a luxury brand based in South Africa. In 2021, she was also awarded a grant of M100,000.00 facilitated by the Basotho Enterprise Development Cooperation (BEDCO) and the African Development Bank through the Business Plan Competition. Furthermore, in 2022, she participated in the Plain Tiger Sustainability Accelerator Africa program alongside several emerging South African designers.
Through the Fellowship, Nthatuoa aims to acquire knowledge on international market interaction and participation. She hopes to elevate her brand by incorporating responsible production, advocating for fair wages, and understanding the fashion industry comprehensively.
Upon her return, she plans to engage with more artisans in Lesotho, assisting them in selling their products and competing in the international market. Nthatuoa looks forward to inspiring more artisans to nurture their skills and contribute to the continuity of the ancient crafts of crocheting and knitting, thereby promoting cultural preservation.
