At Veldskoen, we love celebrating homegrown talent, especially those who use their craft to tell powerful South African stories. This week, we’re shining a light on Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana, a visionary fashion designer, cultural ambassador, and creative force whose work is deeply rooted in Basotho heritage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fashion Designer, Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana

Thabo founded the luxury African heritage brand Thabo Makhetha in 2009. Her signature Basotho-inspired coats, jackets, and capes have not only taken the fashion world by storm but have also become a symbol of African storytelling through design. Since her runway debut at Vancouver Fashion Week in 2014, Thabo has showcased her collections across London, Milan, Paris, Maseru, and Johannesburg, even gracing dignitaries and royalty at the African Union in Addis Ababa.

Her excellence and dedication to cultural preservation have earned her several prestigious awards, including:
🏆 Impact Award for Design Excellence – Arts & Culture Trust of SA (2014)
🏆 Cultural Appreciation Award – Government of Lesotho (2024)
🏆 Creative Industry Award – African Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (2024)

Thabo’s dedication to celebrating African craftsmanship made her collaboration with Veldskoen a natural fit. As the official footwear partner for her Dikeledi SS25 and Phetoho 2.0 AW Collections at South African Fashion Week, Veldskoen proudly walked the runway alongside her designs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Veldskoen proudly walked the runway alongside Thabo's designs at SA Fashion Week in 2024.

Dikeledi, in particular, marks an exciting shift for the brand, introducing locally woven jacquard cotton textiles in celebration of the 200-year legacy of the Basotho nation. The collection was featured in Vogue Italia, cementing Thabo’s place among the world's most innovative designers.

"I love anything with a cultural story to tell, which is why Veldskoen immediately resonated with me. Their craftsmanship and heritage are a perfect match for my brand. I’ve been wearing Veldskoen for over three years, and since working with them, I’ve added even more pairs to my collection! What I love most about Veldskoen is the classic style, bright laces, and versatility. The rugged look gives them a timeless feel."

We’re proud to walk this journey with Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana, a designer who is shaping African fashion and redefining its future.

➡ Shop Thabo Makhetha’s collections: www.thabomakhetha.com
📸 Follow her journey on Instagram: @tmakcc