Nomsa Malgas, a former waitress who lost her job at the beginning of COVID, transformed adversity into success by crafting garments from her own curtains and bed sheets, ultimately rising to prominence as one of South Africa’s top emerging designers.
Western Cape, South Africa (21 September 2023) – In the heart of South Africa’s bustling fashion scene, a rising star is illuminating the industry with her talent and tenacity. Nomsa Malgas, a name quickly becoming synonymous with creativity and innovation, has transcended the boundaries of her humble beginnings to establish herself as one of South Africa’s most up-and-coming designers.
Her journey is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a woman who refused to let adversity define her destiny.
Nomsa’s story begins with the backdrop of a world in turmoil. She was a waitress at the Waterfront, struggling to make ends meet for herself and her eight-month-old baby when the COVID-19 lockdown swept away her job. Left with no source of income and a child to care for, she embarked on a remarkable journey of reinvention. Determined to find a way to provide for her child, Nomsa turned her attention to crafting designer masks. Each morning, she would set up her makeshift stall outside Constantia Village Pick ‘n Pay, selling her unique creations. The money she earned from her sales was a lifeline, allowing her to buy essential baby food. It was a daily struggle, but Nomsa’s resilience shone through.
One fateful morning, Nomsa wore a top she had created herself, a testament to her growing talent as a designer. A regular customer, impressed by her creativity and style, suggested that she should showcase her work at Kamers, South Africa’s original artisan ‘up’-market. With newfound hope, Nomsa eagerly sent her details to the renowned market.
Kamers, a platform that champions local talent and craftsmanship, was the perfect stage for Nomsa’s journey to unfold. Founded two decades ago with just 34 makers and 800 shoppers, Kamers has grown into the largest artisan pop-up market in Africa. Every product showcased at Kamers reflects South African pride, intricate design, and heartfelt gratitude for supporting local talent.
The day Nomsa met Wanda du Toit from Kamers was a turning point in her life.
Despite being 90 minutes late due to a lost Uber, Nomsa arrived with two dresses she had ingeniously crafted from her bedroom curtains and a bedsheet. Nervous and uncertain, she met Wanda, who greeted her with a warm and welcoming hug. Overwhelmed with emotion, they both shed tears of joy.
Nomsa’s journey with Kamers has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over the course of five shows, she has evolved from a newcomer into one of the market’s top fashion makers. Her remarkable talent and dedication culminated in her recently receiving the prestigious Kamers Best Newcomer Award.
The Kamers team recognised her potential and arranged an FNB Maker Plan production loan for her, enabling her to expand her business and employ five people.
The FNB Maker Plan loan, a unique offering designed in partnership between Kamers and FNB, serves as a lifeline for smaller makers who need ‘bridging finance’ to produce their creations for specific shows.
Nomsa’s success story is a testament to the power of collaboration and support within the local creative community. Her journey from using curtains and bedsheets to create “preview garments” to becoming a celebrated fashion designer is a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her resilience, coupled with the unwavering support of platforms like Kamers and innovative financial solutions like the FNB Maker Plan, showcases the incredible potential of South African talent.
Her story reminds us that the pursuit of passion and dreams can lead to remarkable achievements, proving that even in the face of adversity, there are always “good things” waiting to happen.
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