Young designer has big dreams
'It is all about the love for creating new and fresh things'
“I realised that it is not about the money, but about the love of creating fresh new things,” said the 23-year-old Sibusiso Hlwempu.
Sibusisio is one of Sparrow Ministries’ most talented residents, who has been designing and making his own garments for the past four years. “I am so grateful to my teacher, Olga Mukhwanazi, who saw my interest and showed me the ropes.
At first I just wanted to learn how to make different items with the material. The more I learned the more passionate I became about sewing, and here I am today, living out my dream of being a fashion designer,” he said.He explained that he loves everything that has to do with art and creativity and said, “I basically do everything that has to do with art, from drawing, painting, singing to designing.
I worked as a part-time chef to raise enough money for me to study designing, and I realised my dream when I studied at one of the best fashion design colleges in Randburg.”But, Sibusiso’s passion for fashion, designing and everything art is not just a hobby, it helps to make ends meet as well.
“I do earn a living, but some days I feel like stopping and getting a real job, but my love and passion for creating new things always wins, and that is why I decided to invest more time in my work,” he said, smiling.
He hosted his first fashion show last year, and it was received favourably, making him very excited for the future. “When I started designing and making my own garments, I never thought I would be where I am today. It is an amazing journey for me, and I want to go bigger this year,” Sibusiso said excitedly.
He has already started to expand his business, with the addition of a printing company last year. But, he does not want it to stop there, and explained, “I want to start an online shop to sell my designs, and I would love to get other artists and designers involved, in order for us to work together and form a bigger network.
This way we will be able to help each other out. I would also like to buy a camera to use during fashion shows, and I am already busy raising money for that.
“Sibusiso said he wants to motivate and encourage others with his journey, so that everyone will see that you can dream big and achieve it. “You should do what makes you happy, because life is too short to waste time. Do not wait to follow your dreams, otherwise you will not be able to realise it. Hard work will always pay off, no matter what,” he concluded.
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