Kedibone Mathibela’s Journey with Kedi’s Sewing Workshop
In the heart of Acornhoek, South Africa, a small sewing workshop buzzes with creativity and resilience. Meet Kedibone Mathibela, a passionate entrepreneur who has turned her love for sewing into a thriving business known as Kedi’s Sewing Workshop. With unwavering determination, Kedibone has overcome obstacles and made a significant impact on her community.
Kedibone’s journey began in 2007 when she decided to pursue her lifelong passion for sewing. Armed with her talent and a vision, she established Kedi’s Sewing Workshop, where she pours her heart and soul into creating unique garments that embody her commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Despite facing challenges, Kedibone has persevered and built a reputation for her brand. With the registered business name Vukwele Trading, Kedi’s Sewing Workshop stands as a testament to Kedibone’s dedication to her craft and her commitment to providing exceptional products to her customers.
The workshop serves as a sanctuary of creativity and innovation. In 2016, Kedibone made a strategic decision to move her operation from her home to a small centre in Acornhoek. This shift allowed her to be closer to her customers and provided a secure workspace. Surrounded by other small businesses and benefiting from the centre’s security measures, Kedibone found a supportive environment that fostered growth and collaboration.
Kedi’s Sewing Workshop has become a hub of activity, employing a small team of talented individuals who assist Kedibone in bringing her designs to life. From her dedicated sister, Remember, to the skilled seamstresses working from their homes, each team member contributes to the success and growth of the business.
The workshop itself is equipped with two sewing machines, including an industrial one, and an overlocker. With these tools, Kedibone can handle most orders efficiently. However, for larger quantities or specialized embroidery work, such as school logos, she occasionally outsources to ensure each garment meets her high standards.
School uniforms are a significant part of Kedi’s Sewing Workshop’s repertoire. Kedibone understands the importance of customization and attention to detail when it comes to uniforms. She takes pride in creating “Uniform Packs” tailored to each school’s requirements, incorporating specific sizes, colors, and logos. This personalized approach has earned her recognition and support from both parents and schools in the community.
Beyond school uniforms, Kedibone’s talent extends to crafting garments for weddings, burial societies, and stokvels. Her versatility and attention to detail have made her a sought-after seamstress within the community, where people value supporting local businesses.
Kedibone’s entrepreneurial journey has not been without challenges. A few years ago, she faced a setback when she experienced a detached retina, resulting in the loss of sight in one eye. However, Kedibone’s resilience and determination were unwavering. With the support of her community and her indomitable spirit, she continued to pursue her goals, inspiring those around her.
Kedi’s Sewing Workshop is more than just a business. It symbolizes the power of passion, perseverance, and community support. Kedibone Mathibela has not only created a space for her creative expression but has also become a beacon of hope for others in Acornhoek. Her dedication to her craft, commitment to quality, and unwavering spirit serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one’s dreams.
As Kedibone Mathibela continues to sew her way into the hearts of her community, her story reminds us of the countless extraordinary individuals who, against all odds, carve their path to success and make a lasting impact on the world around them.
