By: Mpho Shelile

MASERU

As fashion continues to evolve, one individual is working tirelessly to carve out a space for African creativity and entrepreneurship. Meet Ms. Reithumetsi Mphunyane, the visionary fashion designer and founder of Africa Rose, a thriving fashion company that has steadily made a name for itself in Lesotho since its establishment in 2019.

Africa Rose, under the leadership of Ms. Mphunyane, offers an array of services ranging from custom fashion design, corporate gifts, and unique party concepts. With a keen eye for elegance and innovation, the company has positioned itself as a go-to for those seeking original, bespoke designs that reflect a blend of modernity and cultural authenticity.

Like many entrepreneurs, Ms. Mphunyane’s journey to success was not without its hurdles. She candidly shares some of the initial challenges that nearly derailed her dreams. “Lack of customers and market awareness were some of the biggest hurdles when I started. Another challenge was clients who expected to have clothes designed for free, a challenge I still face today,” she explained during a recent interview with an informative newspaper.

Despite these obstacles, Ms. Mphunyane’s unwavering determination to see her vision come to life propelled her forward. Today, Africa Rose is thriving, and Ms. Mphunyane is seen as inspiration for many aspiring fashion designers across the region.

Ms. Mphunyane’s passion for fashion and design has led to some remarkable achievements. One of the most notable milestones in her career was dressing prominent figures for the prestigious 2024 Finite Magazine Women Appreciation Seminar. Among her clients were Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Bereng Seeiso, Mrs. Mamashinya Ntshepeng Tšita Tikiso, and Hon. ‘Matlhonolofatso Tšepang Tšita Mosena. Dressing such influential personalities not only showcased her exceptional talent but also elevated the profile of Africa Rose to a broader audience.

Another significant achievement was her participation in the Afri Lap Expo held in Cape Town last year. This opportunity allowed Ms. Mphunyane to showcase her designs on an international platform, while also learning from other industry leaders. “It was a moment to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded creatives. The experience has been invaluable in shaping the direction of Africa Rose,” she shared.

Looking ahead, Ms. Mphunyane has a clear vision for the future of both her business and the fashion industry in Lesotho. “In five years, I want to focus more on teaching Basotho youth about fashion, while also empowering them to create jobs and opportunities for themselves,” she said.

Her vision extends beyond just business growth, she is determined to nurture a generation of designers who will carry forward the rich cultural heritage of Lesotho through fashion. By creating job opportunities and encouraging entrepreneurship, Ms. Mphunyane hopes to inspire others to follow in her footsteps.

Throughout her journey, Ms. Mphunyane has received support from organisations such as Maru a Pula, Finite Magazine, and many others, which has played a significant role in her success. However, she calls for greater backing from both the government of Lesotho and the Basotho people.

“The government and the Basotho community need to support more locally owned businesses. We have a wealth of talent in this country, and it is crucial that we build an environment where our young entrepreneurs can thrive,” she emphasised. For Ms. Mphunyane, supporting local businesses means investing in the future of Lesotho’s creative industries and empowering its people to achieve their full potential.