DUTYWA– What began as a simple hobby for a young woman from Dutywa has blossomed into a growing business woven with culture, purpose and entrepreneurial spirit.
The creator behind the colourful threads and carefully arranged beads is someone who once sat at home simply playing with patterns and experimenting with designs. That young woman is Nositsaba Funda(25) founder of Sitsaba Funda Creations whose passion for beadwork has blossomed into a business that reflects both her heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.
In an exclusive interview with Eastern Cape Daily News, Nositsaba Funda shared how her journey with beads started with nothing but curiosity and an old beaded belt and is now fast becoming a recognised local brand. “I saw people wearing beautiful beads and felt inspired to try it for myself. At first, I was just playing around, but then people started placing orders and that’s when I realised it could be something more,” she said.
Born in Mance eNdulwini, outside Dutywa, Funda attended Collywobles Junior Secondary and later Ndamase Senior Secondary, before leaving school in Grade 12 due to a spiritual calling. She later returned to complete her matric. While she did not pursue further studies, she says she found her true calling in her hands turning tradition into trade.Her journey began in 2023, experimenting with beadwork at home.
By 2024, she officially registered her business, giving it her name as a symbol of personal and cultural pride. Her handcrafted beadwork, often personalised with names or clan identities, quickly set her apart.
“I always try to make something meaningful something that reflects who people are,” she explained. “These aren’t just accessories. They tell stories.”
However, her journey has not been without challenges.“Some people would place orders and promise to pay later but then disappear,” Funda recalled. “It was discouraging.” To protect her work, she introduced a 50% deposit policy on all orders a change that helped sustain the business.
A lack of proper tools also hinders her growth. “Sometimes I feel my work doesn’t reach enough people because the photos don’t show the true beauty,” she said, referring to her cellphone’s poor camera quality.
Looking ahead, Funda dreams of opening a skills centre for unemployed youth and traditional healers, as well as a physical store where customers can engage with her creations. “I want to create opportunities and keep our culture alive,” she said.
With every bead she threads, Nositsaba Funda is not only creating beautiful pieces she’s building a legacy of resilience, identity, and empowerment.
To place an order, contact Sitsaba Funda Creations on WhatsApp: 071 060 8621.
photographs: supplied
