BY BONAKELE MABUZA
MBABANE – Meet Sebenele Mavuso, a 24 year old entrepreneur who re-images and revolutionising imvunulo for the new generation.
Sebenele Mavuso is taking the Eswatini world by storm with a far more dazzling creation: Imvunulo. This 24-year-old entrepreneur from Lozitha is not following the crowd; she is leading the charge with a fresh take on a beloved cultural art form.
Fresh out of Dinane High school in 2022, Sebenele’s dreams of further education were put on hold due to a lack of financial support for tertiary fees. She faced unemployment and found herself drawn to Imvunulo. Mavuso shared that she encountered a barrage of criticism. Many people labeled her old-fashioned for choosing the traditional art of Imvunulo over the vibrant nightlife associated with youth.Inspite of the negative feedback, she chose to fully embrace her artistic passion.
She said that her love affair with the craft began by helping her aunt, and it quickly blossomed into a burning desire to innovate.
Sebenele revealed that she is creating traditional attire to suit everyone in the country, regardless of age or gender. This includes Imvunulo designs for men, young people, and women. Her creations feature a range of garments such as the Indlamu, Ligcebesha, Umgaco, blinged emahiya and Emafahlawane.
“There are many who make Imvunulo,” she says, “but mostly it is the older generation. I wanted to show the youth that it is cool, too.”
Sebenele’s secret weapon,is staying on top of trends. She infuses her Imvunulo with the latest styles, creating eye-catching pieces that resonate with the younger audience. This fresh perspective has put her in the spotlight, proving that tradition and innovation can be a beautiful match.
Mavuso declared that the journey was not all sunshine and beads. Sebenele faced her fair share of criticism. “People called me old-fashioned,” she recalls. “They said I should be partying, not making Imvunulo.” Yet, Sebenele refused to be discouraged. Her belief in herself and her craft fuelled her determination.
Today, Sebenele’s Imvunulo is not just a source of personal pride; it is a source of independence. She has become the breadwinner for her family, proving that talent pays the bills, and culture can be a powerful business tool.
“Don’t let people judge you,” she advises aspiring young entrepreneurs. “Use your talent, embrace your culture, and make money by doing what you love,”said Mavuso.
Sebenele’s ambition doesn’t stop at dazzling cultural attire. Her dream is to expand her business, creating jobs and opportunities for others who share her passion for Imvunulo. She’s a shining example that age and gender are no barriers to success, and that sometimes, the coolest trends are rooted in the wisdom of the past.
Calling all Swazi maidens! The Umhlanga reed dance is just around the corner, and you need the perfect traditional attire to shine. Look no further than Sebenele Mavuso! Sebenele creates stunning Imvunulo designs , ensuring you’ll look elegant and celebrate your culture in style.
For more details contact Sebenele on 76735927/79350181. You can also find her on Facebook at “Her Majesty Semie.”
