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KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP EKAMU - Proudly South African “Ekamu started off in 2012 as an African inspired street wear brand for adults, and have since evolved to serve a wider audience with kid’s clothes and ladies genuine leather sandals,” says 32-year-old founder Nkanyiso Mngoma, who employs a team of five. Ekamu’s genuine leather sandals are handmade in the heart of the township of Hammarsdale, and curated one stitch at a time. “Not only have we kept our African inspired theme throughout our evolution, but we have also maintained a standard of quality that ensures that our products are comfortable and durable, while offering a level of practicality and style,” he says – adding that they showcased at the Africa Fashion Week in London in 2015. “What makes us unique is authenticity,” says Nkanyiso. “As a brand, Ekamu remains true to its African roots. The name Ekamu means Africa in west African slang, and has been a reminder of who we are throughout our journey. We celebrate Africa and its rich culture and diversity, and aspire to represent Africa – whether in its
most unique form, or with a touch of contemporary”. Ekamu also believes in the upliftment of society through social outreach. “Ekamu has a social enterprise, inkanyiso school shoes, which is our sister brand to which we donate a portion of every purchase. Inkanyiso school shoes has since donated and distributed over 12 500 pairs of school shoes nationwide with the help of social partners. As a brand we are so honoured to be a part of a journey of a thousand miles, made possible by the continuous support of our customers who have become our family.” FOR MORE INFO: www.ekamu.co.za; 078 540 7052; africa@ekamu.co.za
FABULOUS BEDS For Your Furry Friends
SUPPORT LOCAL
Needing a new bed for your dog or cat? Look no further! Tucano Pet Beds started in Pietermaritzburg in 2003, relocating to bigger premises in Hammarsdale in 2011. “We currently employ five staff members from the local community. All our beds are manufactured in-house, and we have about 20 different designs and sizes for dogs and cats,” explains owner Anet Coetzee. “Our beds are all filled with high density foam and we supply various vet practices, vet shops and petshops in the greater Durban area.” You can now find Tucano at Mila-Grace in Botha’s Hill as well, with a range of earthy tone and floral fabric beds and cushions. Anet can also do custom-made beds that will fit in with the decor of the home owner – with the bed cover being completely removable for easy washing and cleaning. “We can also make up any size bed to fit into a specific area,” she adds. FOR MORE INFO: 084 569 9091; orders@ tucanopetproducts.co.za; https://tucanopetproducts.co.za
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