Laduma Ngxokolo is visionary shaping the future of African luxury fashion, a preserver and transcender of culture who bridges the traditional, modern, and future.
His journey began with a university thesis that asked: How can Xhosa aesthetics be reimagined for a modern world? From that question, he built MaXhosa Africa, a brand that transforms heritage into bold,
contemporary style.
A storyteller at heart, Laduma embeds his personal perspective and experiences into every creation. Drawing from ceremonial knit traditions and intricate beadwork, he turned knitwear into bold cultural statements and expanded MaXhosa into a lifestyle brand, bringing African heritage into modern interiors. His work has graced the runways of Paris, Milan, and New York, and is celebrated by institutions such as the Smithsonian and MoMA, rede_ning global perceptions of African craftsmanship. Laduma built MaXhosa from the ground up, industrialising luxury fashion production in Africa while inspiring a generation of emerging leaders. A fearless innovator, critical thinker, and award-winning designer, he has
led global talks, challenged conventions, and continues to shape the future of African design, ensuring it is preserved, celebrated, and recognised worldwide.