By: Saneliso Mlambo.
A few years ago, Buyani Xhakaza wasn’t sure where his life was headed. Now 28, he is working on his seventh clothing collection and dreams of expanding his business far beyond his garage-based studio.
Buyani was born and raised by a single, unemployed mother in Inanda, a large township in Durban. Growing up, fashion was the furthest thing from his mind. However, tragedy struck in 2000 when his mother passed away. Devastated and vulnerable, Buyani was forced to drop out of high school and move to Hillcrest to live with his uncle.
“Life was so difficult at the beginning. Dropping out of high school and trying to be independent was a massive challenge. Being in a new environment with unfamiliar people, while simultaneously grieving the loss of my only parent, almost led me to make some very reckless decisions,” he recalled.
A turning point came in 2006 when Buyani began making new friends in Hillcrest. He befriended twin brothers who were studying fashion design, which ignited his own passion for the craft. Because he lacked the financial means to study fashion at a university, he used his time with them to learn everything he could.
Proof that nothing beats passion and hard work, Buyani saved enough money by 2008 to buy his own materials and begin creating original designs. By 2012, he was designing winter clothes for the Siyabuswa Orphanage in Hillcrest.
Buyani’s business strategy sets him apart from other fashion designers. Beyond incorporating traditional colours and eye-catching patterns into his pieces, he uses his talent to generate an income while simultaneously supporting local orphans by donating clothing to nearby care homes.
“I was raised with love, so lifting other people up is the ultimate priority in my life. Nothing helps me sleep more peacefully at night than knowing I am responsible for making someone smile. I don’t just see myself as a fashion designer; I am a community member who cares about the well-being of his people. I see myself as a caring and responsible older brother,” he said.
Ultimately, his deep love for fashion keeps him focused, grounded, and away from trouble.
“I’ve tried so many different things in life, but this is the only thing that genuinely makes me excited to wake up every morning,” Buyani said. “I have to force myself to take a break or take a day off; otherwise, I would just never stop. Designing clothes is my life.”