TALENTED seamstress, high-profile politician, and successful entrepreneur are three phrases that describe Graaff-Reinet’s Hanna Makoba – a humble, talented lady who is dedicated to uplifting her community.
Makoba learned her skills in a clothing factory in Cape Town, where she worked for more than eight years.
Back in Graaff-Reinet, she started her small sewing business in 1999, in a rented building with just one table for her sewing machine and overlocker. She was joined by other ladies, and the small business grew.
In 2011, she was elected as mayor of the then Camdeboo Municipality, and in her dealings with the community, she gained insight into the needs of the mostly unemployed women in the region.
She registered the New Horizons sewing enterprise as a co-operative in 2011, with the vision of helping single women make a living for themselves.
After her term of political office came to an end, she devoted herself to the co-operative, giving women a skill that would empower them – taking pride in looking after their families.
The group’s trademark garments are made from colourful shweshwe material, to the highest standard of workmanship.
“We can also do anything on special order, such as alterations, special occasion wear and uniforms,” said Makoba. “We even make school uniforms. If I see children wearing outgrown or very worn uniform, we will call them in and provide them with a new one, at no cost.”
Residents of Graaff-Reinet and surrounding towns will soon have the opportunity to see some of the products of Makoba’s flair and hard work.
First ever fashion show
The Village in Graaff-Reinet will host the first-ever fashion show featuring New Horizon’s clothing creations on Saturday, November 9, at 10:00.
The idea for the show came from Carol-Ann van Jaarsveld, founder of The Village, and Makoba was thrilled to receive this vote of confidence. The show, aptly named Shweshwe Chic, will use local models to showcase a range of mostly traditional shweshwe outfits, but will also include formal and casual wear.
The cost of R120 includes pre-show refreshments, the fashion show itself, and tea, coffee and snacks afterwards.
Tickets can be purchased at Our Yard and The Village.
Since its opening in March this year, The Village has proven an ideal venue for special events, and a haven for lovers of all things vintage.
“The fashion show will be held in the Car Shed, so guests can also enjoy browsing the shops and restaurant,” said Van Jaarsveld.
