ROOTED IN FASHION 

By Sinethemba Mthabela 

HomeGrown Shandis, Ifreecan Time. 

Places inhabited by troubled or desperate people often double as a haven for creativity. Musicians and comedians have documented how their craft was shaped by difficult circumstances that existed earlier in their lives. The art of expression exists in many forms and fashion is one of them. 

Established in 2018 fashion label Homegrown Shandis is growing at a rate their counterparts would only anticipate in a few years. Comprised of a large number of members each individual brings their unique talent to the table and a fashion statement is made.

I had the opportunity of interviewing cofounder Sicelo Mabuza who explained the concept behind Homegrown Shandis.

Sicelo Mabuza, Co founder of HomeGrown Shandis 

"We are not fashion designers but prefer being called creative", he begins. The interview takes place in their booth at a flea market in Newtown occupied by other businesses.

Positioned between 2 entrances Sicelo says the move was done strategically in order to attract customers entering and exiting the market.

His journey as a creative started in high school when he left home as a teenager. it was only natural for his hustle instincts to kick in considering the circumstances.

Ifreecan Time together with Mama Kea designer shoes

Self-taught in graphic design, photography and taking videos it was only a matter of time before their fashion label would be born.

He continues," Homegrown Shandis caters for people's needs. We interact with our customers and get the sense of the kind of products they need." 

Isthali, men's wear available at Newtown Junction Mall 

This can be seen in their choice of material used. An old fabric that might be familiar to township dwellers, known as 'Itshali' or a traditional blanket, is used to make sneakers and scarves. If this doesn't blow your mind maybe their customised wrist watches with the faces of their customers will.

The main inspiration behind these products is to preserve that homely feeling one gets when surrounded by family. "Itshali can be used as a door mat or for warmth, in some instances, but we see it as an African treasure that needs to be cherished," Sicelo explains.

The team has had the chance of being interviewed on various media platforms and being noticed by prominent figures such as radio DJ T-bo Touch.

HomeGrown Shandis together with Mama Kea designer shoes 

Movers and Shakers set the trend

Their sneakers 'Mama Kea' are in demand in England while their other products are causing havoc in China.

Clearly anything is possible when you consider yourself a disruptor of the conventional method of doing things. What's better than disrupting the market with a Shandis that is HomeGrown. Furthermore, let's support Black Businesses and be proudly South African. #MishMash #HomegrownShandis 

A DIRECTOR'S REGAL DREAM

Sinethemba Mthabela 

Regal Dreams Production Team

The mind, arguably, is a theatre that constantly projects mental images cinematic in nature. 

If you're seeking an example just think about the kind of thoughts that occupy your mind on a daily basis. One individual who relates to this sentiment is, Sandile Biyela, the owner of 'Regal Dreams' production company.

Conceived in varsity 'Regal Dreams' is steadily growing and aims to be a force reckoned with. "In varsity I realised that I like storytelling using visuals and the first thing I ever wrote was a play", Sandile explains.

From right, Sandile Biyela founder of Regal Dreams. 

Although he obtained a bachelor's degree in Government and Political Transformation at the University of Free State film would haunt him for the duration of his course.

He adds that a seed was planted at a young age when he would watch the same movies repeatedly as an active viewer. This passion would later evolve into a directorial concept that prompted him to step up to the plate.

Although he never studied film, at an institution, he substitutes this by reading and following up on prominent directors.

The dream behind the production 

When asked about the significance of having a qualification in this field he responds, "The work, ideas and perspective that I have (kind of) weigh more than a qualification because you can have one but still be incompetent." 

A statement that is reminiscent of thousands of graduates who enter the workplace clueless... But that's an argument for another day.

As you would imagine being an independent film maker comes with tons of challenges that include the lack of resources. With social media at their disposal the company interacts with the public by posting their content online.

But all these shortcomings inspire authentic content that reflects the stories told by Regal Dreams. A series of conversations with actors, directors and industry stakeholders posted on the company's YouTube channel are an example of this.

Reverting back to the mind being a theatre Sandile has demonstrated that these ideas can be projected on to a screen with or without a qualification.

We therefore encourage you to dream in colour but most importantly have 'Regal Dreams'.