From engineering dreams to fashion industry icon

Nungo Hope Phalanndwa, affectionately known as Ms. Nu, is a vibrant 29-year-old fashion designer from Thohoyandou whose creations bring traditional wedding attire, mwenda, uniforms, and elegant evening gowns to life. Her journey into the world of sewing was not one she initially envisioned, but it has become her life's passion and purpose.

Growing up in a family where the rhythmic click of knitting needles was a familiar sound, Nungo was surrounded by creativity from a young age. Her parents and older brother all shared a love of knitting, planting the seeds of her future career. Following her mother’s advice, she enrolled in a sewing school. What began as a reluctant pursuit soon blossomed into a profound passion for sewing.

Nungo’s academic journey was equally impressive. She completed her matric at the young age of 16 at Liivha Combined School and went on to study civil engineering at Vhembe VET College. Her dedication and hard work led to an apprenticeship programme, where she earned a trade qualification in carpentry. Despite these achievements, she faced challenges in securing stable employment in her field. Undeterred, Nungo turned to her true passion - fashion - and established her sewing business in the bustling heart of Thohoyandou Town.

“Running my own business has taught me valuable lessons in self-discipline, customer relations, and financial management,” she reflects. “I take great joy in creating clothes with my own hands and find immense satisfaction in my work.”

For Nungo, being a fashion designer is more than just a job; it is a calling. “It feels like nothing is impossible,” she says with enthusiasm. “The more I learn, the more I can do, and it’s so much fun seeing all my products being worn and making people feel beautiful.”

However, Nungo is also mindful of the importance of balance. “I’ve realised that I still need to take care of my family and myself because when those areas of my life are running smoothly, it makes me a better person,” she shares. Her passion for sewing extends beyond just a profession; it is a therapeutic outlet that helps her navigate life’s ups and downs. “All I can say is, run your own race, learn as much as you can, and practice as much as possible,” she advises with a smile.

Date:25 August 2024

By: Maanda Bele

Maanda  Bele, born and raised in Nzhelele Siloam, studied journalism at the Tshwane University of Technology.

He is passionate about current news and international affairs.

He worked as part of the Zoutnet team as an intern in 2017.

He is currently a freelance journalist specialising in news from the Vhembe district.

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