4 South African Lifestyle Brands Worth Your Rand (And Dollars)

Last month, I was treated to a 10-day trip to South Africa and was blown away by the landscape, the culture, and the crafts. Everywhere we looked there were artisans, particularly along the Ribolla Route  in Polykwane, but what inspired me most was the abundance of men and women turning their crafts into independent businesses. At Indaba, Africa's largest trade show, I was exposed to a number of lifestyle brands that brought new meaning to authenticity and the idea of buying Black in your own community and abroad. I had the pleasure of meeting the men and women behind four great businesses that started small and are now doing something big for the communities they serve. Here are four brandsyou should start patronizing now and definitely check out if you have the chance to travel to South Africa.

Ledikana is a clothing brand based in Johannesburg that manufactures contemporary African garments, hats, handbags, jewelry, shoes and other fashion accessories for men, women, and children. And it's owned operated by a Black woman whom I had the pleasure of meeting at Indaba. Ledikana's fashions, all of which are handmade, have been seen on runways in Milan, London, and of course Africa's Fashion Week for the past few years. And the brand's approach to business is "creating an environment where people are inspired to be the best they can be and making products that will satisfy our customers’ needs and desires." Check them out ASAP.

Ooh Khamba is a brand supplying traditional and modern Zulu artisanship from beaded and woven grass products to clay pots, leatherwork, embroidery and jewelry. Started by two young Black male entrepreneurs, Ooh Khamba links rural crafters to urban markets, providing opportunities for young artisans to make a living through their art.

Chikondi and his wife Kate run this craft business consisting of handmade soaps, deodorants, and essential oils. Chikondi makes the soaps and other skin care items while his wife designs the artwork for the packaging. Purchases from Rondavel ship outside of South Africa once per week.

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