Young SA designer sparkles in redefining cultural narratives through jewellery

IN AN INDUSTRY often synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, 25-year-old Andile Hlongwane is redefining perceptions while crafting her path as a prominent young jewellery designer.

- SIPHELELE DLUDLA

Hailing from KwaDabeka Township in Durban, Hlongwane's passion for jewellery transcends aesthetics; it is deeply rooted in cultural narratives and personal expression.

With geometric designs that echo her influences, she is turning her dreams into reality, one piece at a time.

Notably, Hlongwane's emerging brand, Topsy Jewellery has gained recognition and was selected to exhibit at the ongoing Intra-African Trade Fair 2025 (IATF2025) in Algeria.

Speaking with Business Report at her stall over the weekend, she reflected on the rigours of entrepreneurship while remaining optimistic about the learning opportunities that come her way.

"It came about two weeks ago, and they said, 'you must come here," she recalled. "I didn't even have enough stock, but my family urged me to go, and I was able to do some of this work and come and present it here." Hlongwane acknowledged her initial hesitance, thinking her business too small for such a prestigious platform.

However, the experience ignited a newfound desire to explore international trade fairs further.

"To share our vision, we've made a landing page for the company and we use social media platforms for visibility, while exhibitions like this allows us to connect directly with people," she said.