Thulani Lobhambo is a native of Macobolwane who was raised at Msunduza, a township situated in the Hhohho Region, in the capital city of Eswatini, Mbabane.
“It’s a low-income area with its fair share of challenges, but it’s also where I learnt resilience, creativity and how to make something out of nothing.” Growing up amid a household deeply rooted in fashion at Msunduza, Lobhambo’s mother imparted tailoring and basic business skills, while his father introduced him to the fashion industry. This familial environment, filled with fabric, sewing machines and discussions about style, laid the foundation for his future career in fashion.
Despite the hardships of his environment, Msunduza remains a grounding influence for him. “Before getting into fashion business, I used to sell fat cakes door-to-door in the morning and afternoons.”
Currently, Lobhambo is an Accounts Receivable Officer in one of the local telecommunications company. “But beyond my nine to five, I’ve returned to my first love, tailoring. After stepping away from the craft for some time, I’m now actively rebuilding my tailoring business and working with clients again.” His primary focus is on rebuilding his tailoring business where he aims to specialise in premium menswear, particularly custom-made suits. His goal is to establish a reputable suit shop where he will create opportunities for others within his community.
The year 2025 was pivotal for Lobhambo. Returning to tailoring after a hiatus marked a significant milestone. “That was a major goal on my drawing board for 2025.” He successfully completed around 60 custom pieces, including suits, and invested in refining his craft. This period also saw him reconnecting with clients and understanding the market better. His employment at Eswatini Mobile provided financial stability, enabling him to reinvest in his tailoring business and save towards opening his own shop.
“While the suit shop hasn’t opened yet, I’ve laid solid groundwork refining my techniques, understanding my market and rebuilding a client base. Those foundations are putting me in a strong position for what’s coming next.”
The success Lobhambo attributes to his journey stems from several key factors. His parents’ teachings of patience, discipline and respect for craftsmanship remain central to his approach. Resilience, cultivated by growing up at Msunduza, also plays a role. “Growing up at Msunduza teaches you early that nothing is handed to you. You develop grit, determination and the ability to keep pushing, even when resources are limited,” he notes.
His ability to balance a full-time job with his tailoring pursuits has enhanced his business discipline, customer management and financial responsibility. Above all, he remains connected to his purpose delivering confidence, dignity and transformation through quality tailoring. “I stay connected to my ‘Why’, I know where I come from.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Lobhambo’s primary objective is to transition his tailoring business into a full-time enterprise. Securing a physical location for his shop is his most significant milestone. He plans to expand his client base through social media and networking. “I have a target of completing at least 120 custom suits within the year.”
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