MAPHOLO RATAU

What does your company do?

Ledikana is a sustainable business that embraces eco-friendly practices in every aspect of its operations.The brand prioritizes sustainability by using locally sourced materials, supporting South African women from previously disadvantaged communities, and promoting ethical production methods. Ledikana fuses different African cultures and expresses them through unique patterns and prints, celebrating the continent’s rich diversity. Ledikana minimizes its environmental footprint by packaging its products in recyclable paper bags, reducing plastic waste, not only preserving cultural heritage but also fosters economic empowerment.

What is your biggest success?

Ledikana African Fashion Brand proudly marked its 10th anniversary in February 2024, celebrating a decade of creativity, resilience, and cultural expression. Over the years, Ledikana has carved out a distinctive identity in the South African fashion landscape through a unique blend of African heritage and modern style. At the heart of Ledikana’s success is a deep-rooted commitment to cultural authenticity and innovation. A highlight of this journey has been the creation and launch of the Babina Noko print collection — a tribute to the rich heritage of the Bapedi people. Featuring the porcupine quill motif, the collection symbolizes wisdom, protection, and timeless beauty. It not only showcases traditional artistry but also serves as a visual narrative of a people whose stories deserve to be celebrated and preserved. Ledikana’s ethos is firmly grounded in sustainable and ethical practices. The brand proudly sources materials locally, supports women from disadvantaged communities, and champions ethical production methods. This approach ensures that each garment not only looks beautiful but is also responsibly made. Ledikana’s passion for merging different South African cultural influences into distinct, modern designs has solidified its reputation. as a truly South African brand. The brand's commitment to diversity and authenticity was recognized when it was named a Gauteng Finalist in the Standard Bank Top Women Awards, a testament to its leadership in empowering women and driving excellence in the creative industry. As Ledikana steps into its next chapter, the brand continues to honor African traditions while embracing innovation — proving that fashion can be a powerful medium for storytelling, empowerment, and change.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

One of our biggest hurdles has been navigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It significantly affected our sales and disrupted our ability to operate in key markets, including a prime retail location at the airport. We also had to make the difficult decision to close one of our key retail outlets. On top of that, shifts in customer spending patterns required us to adapt quickly to retain our client base while still delivering quality products and service. In a highly competitive fashion industry, we continue to face the challenge of standing out while staying true to our cultural identity and commitment to sustainable practices. Balancing these values with the need for business growth remains one of our most complex and defining challenges.