Since launching Sistas Felas in 2020, Makhosazane (Makhosi) Ntshangase has won multiple prestigious awards, including Designer of the Year 2024 from the Durban Fashion Fair; Amaqhawe Our Heroes 2024 Winner at Zee Entertainment Africa; and second-place for the National Presidential SMME & Cooperatives Awards 2023 for Women-Led Business.

Committed to township development, Makhosi collaborates with Trade & Investment KZN (TIKZN) and local government to provide skills and drive business creation through fashion. Supported by SEDA and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, Makhosi organises the South Coast Annual Business Fair, an internationally recognised event that hosts designers and delegates from across the world. Drawing on this success, Sistas Felas signed a three-year agreement with Ray Nkonyeni Municipality in 2024 to continue this well-supported event.

Operating from two branches in Gamalakhe township and a training Cut, Make, and Trim (CMT) studio in Port Shepstone, the company produces custom clothing, accessories, and branded merchandise while mentoring local designers under South Coast Designers. Through 100% FREE Fashion Design Training Programme, mentees gain exposure at major events like Durban Fashion Fair, Durban July, and Seychelles Fashion Week.

With exhibitions in 12 countries and more than 30 cities worldwide, Sistas Felas has expanded to exporting to London and Seychelles. In terms of investment potential, Makhosi says they’re appealing to local and international organisations to grow the company, supporting their drive to increase permanent local employment and grow their export market.