Our heritage is who we are. This is how we use craft to preserve culture

Our cultures shape who we are – they’re a core aspect of our identities and how we relate to the world. Phophi Mudau, Tiisetso Thiba, and Husnaa Kajee are creatively celebrating their heritage. Through their artistry, they’re crafting belonging while preserving rich customs.

Traditional garments are an essential part of Phophi Mudau’s Venda culture. But these bold fabrics and designs are under threat of being lost. “Often, our heritage goes unnoticed and uncelebrated,” Mudau says. “A part of me worries it will be forgotten.” To prevent these fabrics from going out of trend, she founded her clothing label Pdesigns South Africa. “I design clothing that merges traditional textures and current trends,” Mudau says. Through brightly patterned backpacks, summer dresses, and skirts, she’s ensuring her culture is threaded into everyday life.  

Tiisetso Thiba expresses his heritage through words. With few books written in his mother tongue, Setswana, he’s starting a new chapter of literature. “Through my writing, I am preserving a big part of who I am,” he says. Thiba has published two novels, one written entirely in Setswana. “I believe in narratives that have meaning and that inspire generations,” he says. Thiba’s work is helping others reconnect with their culture, while protecting Setswana from fading into history. With his literature on the shelves, Thiba’s mother tongue will live on. 

While Thiba writes on paper, Husnaa Kajee draws tradition on skin. The art of mehndi is rooted in Kajee’s Indian and Muslim heritage. “There aren’t enough spaces that represent modern Muslim women,” Kajee says. “I hope to change that.” As a henna artist, she’s continuing this age-old ritual for brides today. Delicate swirls and complex patterns meander along the skin. Lasting for a few days after application, it’s a visual reflection of culture. While keeping traditions alive, Kajee is also sharing the exquisite form of mehndi for others to appreciate. 

Mudau, Thiba, and Kajee are preserving their cultural heritage with their craft. When we celebrate our diverse backgrounds, we embrace our strength as humanity.