Partnerships with local entrepreneurs help find sustainable solutions to environmental and social challenges
Cape Town bag designer Sibulelo Ngozi contributes to the circular economy by designing quality fashion bags and accessories from leftover material, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
WWF South Africa WWF South Africa has partnered with Ngozi to market his products, which includes toiletry bags, on their online store. Ngozi also designs colourful ladies shoulder bags, tote bags, backpacks and man bags
Ngozi focused on building his small accessories business during the Covid 19 pandemic when his employer at the time provided him with a sewing machine. At that stage, Ngozi was working for
Head on Design where he was designing and selling face masks. He was donated fabric offcuts and waste from Sharon B Design and Lula Fabrics to use as he grew his business.
“I previously used to sell my products at the Kirstenbosch Market and also sometimes at the Muizenberg Market but transport to and from the markets can be quite a challenge as the journey
from my home in Khayelitsha is quite far and therefore it is very expensive,” said Ngozi.
That’s why when he was approached by WWF South Africa to market and sell his products on their online store, he jumped at the opportunity. “Now that I can sell my bags through the organisation, I
at least know that my business is getting the constant exposure it needs and I have an opportunity to direct new customers to the site to make online sales without leaving my home,” commented Ngozi.
Focus on natural hues, floral and wildlife
“I only use a South African style to design my products and I am focusing on animals and floral motifs. The WWF South Africa team has taught me a lot in terms of how to promote my products.
We are working together to ensure that my business is sustainable and that it continues to contribute towards keeping fabric waste from ending up at landfill sites,” Ngozi said.
Justin Smith, WWF South Africa’s Business Development Manager said the collaboration between Ngozi and the organisation was making a positive contribution to conservation. “Sibulelo is working
in his small business to create quality fashion bags and accessories while at the same time making a positive impact by reducing the negative affect of pollution and climate change on the environment.
By preventing material waste from going to landfill sites he is contributing to the circular economy by
extending the life of waste and reducing the carbon footprint of his own business.”
The nature of business
Collaborations with business offer one of the most effective routes to improve the way products and services are produced, processed, used, and consumed for the environment’s benefit. These
partnerships play a pivotal role in influencing the course of conservation.
Many companies rely on natural resources and their operations often significantly impact the environment. However, they also have a crucial role to play in supporting conservation efforts and
being part of the solution.
“To save the only planet we have, a new economy must be created and driven by a new generation of business leaders. By working with local businesses and entrepreneurs, we look to change
behaviour and drive conservation results that would be impossible otherwise,” added Smith.
When Ngozi is not working behind his sewing machine, he can be found outdoors coaching young people on the football field. “I’m invested in uplifting my local community and really enjoy spending
time on the field working to develop young football players,” he concluded.
Visit WWF South Africa to view Sibulelo Ngozi’s products.