Meet Sibusiso Mokhachane, the artist and passionate creative behind SOULART FOUNDATION. A design studio specialising in multi-discipline art, sustainably produced luggage and streetwear.

Sibusiso studied Tourism when he first started SOULART FOUNDATION as part of a project to create art out of recycled materials for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The completed works were exhibited on Vilakazi Street, with the money earned invested into creating the business and producing bags and clothing. The brand has since grown, building relationships with retailers like Havas Media and securing opportunities like the Design Indaba Emerging Creatives Class of 2016.

Since its inception, SOULART FOUNDATION has been a brand that strongly believes in using what you have, where you are. In keeping with this philosophy, the business produces recycled and upcycled luggage, textile and clothing design. Outside of its sustainable values, the brand is very intentional about creating opportunities for the youth and the broader community in Soweto. As a native Sowetan, Sibusiso recalls not having access to the resources, creative spaces and support within his community. For this reason, he is deeply passionate about social enterprise and putting systems in place that will give back to his people.

Through his mentorship experience with the Woolies Youth Makers Programme, Sibusiso has learned more about product quality control, storytelling and branding. He has already begun to apply this guidance, noting his products are now of a superior quality because of the mentorship process.

One day, Sibusiso sees SOULART FOUNDATION having a chain of stores around the continent. He aims to build manufacturing facilities in townships around South Africa to create opportunities for young kids.