Africa-Press – Eswatini. While many were overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, one woman picked up a hook and found purpose. Nkosinomusa Gumbi, a 29-year-old creative from Siteki, started crocheting in 2020 and today, her hands tell a powerful story of passion, survival, and growth.
“I was drawn to how colours blend and how something beautiful can be made from just yarn,” she says. What began as a lockdown hobby quickly turned into a business, built purely on trial, error, and love for the craft.
From trendy dresses and bold swimwear to men’s shirts and cozy winter tops, Gumbi crochets it all, but tops remain her favourite to create. “There’s something special about designing pieces that people wear with pride,” she adds. Her work has not only gained her loyal customers but has also become a reliable source of income, especially in a country where youth unemployment remains high.
Crochet, however, is not all smooth stitching. “There are times I make something and never get paid. And in winter, my hands freeze while I work,” she admits. But her spirit is far from discouraged. She continues to create, inspired by her love for fashion and the satisfaction of seeing others wear her handmade pieces.
“I do everything, whether it’s for males or females,” she says proudly. Her gender-inclusive designs are as bold as her determination, and her story is a reminder that creative talent, when nurtured, can open doors even in the darkest times.
Looking ahead, Nkosinomusa hopes to open her own shop and train others in the art of crochet. “I want to teach people this skill and help them earn from it too,” she says. Her vision is to turn her passion into a platform for empowering others.
With every piece she makes, Gumbi is not just building a brand, she’s inspiring others to turn their hobbies into businesses, and their pain into something beautiful. Keep an eye on this rising star, her thread is only beginning to unravel.
To see more of her creations, follow Nkosinomusa Gumbi on Facebook at Nkosinomusa Gumbi (nkosinomusa nkosicrochet). Or call her at 78120089 79439856.
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