“Start wherever you are, with whatever you have.” These are the words that define Shikombiso Bila, founder of MaxeloStyle, a proudly South African fashion brand that celebrates heritage, creativity, and resilience.

Born and raised in Nghezimani village, Shikombiso’s journey is one of vision, courage, and deep cultural pride. With only R50, she began what would become one of the most authentic and inspiring Tsonga-inspired crochet fashion brands in Limpopo.

Early Life and Education

Shikombiso completed both her primary and high school education in her home village before pursuing a Diploma in Information Technology (Software Development) at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT). Though her academic background is in tech, her passion for fashion and modeling had always been her guiding light.

Growing Up with Style and Spirit

“I grew up as a church girl who loved modelling and fashion with all my heart,” she recalls. “I used to enter pageants, and deep down, I knew I would be in the fashion industry one way or another.”

Her childhood curiosity led her to experiment with clothing designs, even if it meant tearing her own clothes apart just to try new patterns. That adventurous creativity became the foundation of her brand — a blend of tradition, elegance, and innovation.

The Birth of MaxeloStyle

MaxeloStyle began humbly, with a crochet hook, a handful of wool, and an unshakable vision. “I started with hats and scarves,” she explains, “then began experimenting with different crochet patterns to create dresses, pants, blankets, and more.”

Eventually, she introduced the wool xibelani — a traditional Tsonga skirt reimagined through crochet. This creation became her signature piece, setting her apart in the fashion industry. Today, she focuses mainly on xibelani garments, handcrafted with precision, style, and deep cultural symbolism.

A Business Rooted in Heritage

MaxeloStyle is more than just a fashion brand — it’s a cultural movement. Shikombiso’s vision is to help people embrace their roots and wear their identity proudly every day.

“We champion the idea of wearing a xibelani wherever you go, turning everyday moments into a celebration of culture. My mission is to preserve and elevate our traditions through the art of fashion.”

Challenges and Lessons

Starting out wasn’t easy. Capital was scarce, and formal fashion training was out of reach. But Shikombiso chose to see beauty in small beginnings.

“The tallest oak in the forest was once just a small nut that held its ground,” she says.

Books That Shaped Her Mindset

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne — taught her the power of mindset and positive thinking.

The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber — showed her how to build a business that can run with or without her, through teamwork and systems.

Staying in Touch with Customers and Trends

Social media is her window to the world. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok help her stay in tune with current fashion trends and customer feedback.

Vision for the Future

In the next 3–5 years, she envisions establishing a production factory to manufacture MaxeloStyle designs in bulk and distribute them internationally, dressing Miss South Africa finalists, and showcasing her work at international fashion weeks including New York and Paris.

Values and Integrity

“Not everyone is my ideal customer,” she says. “If someone expects me to go against my values, I’d rather walk away from that opportunity. It’s part of the growth journey.”

Connect with Shikombiso Bila

• 📘 Facebook: MaxeloStyle
• 📸 Instagram: @MaxeloStyle
• 🎵 TikTok: @ShikombisoBila
• 💬 WhatsApp: +27 61 457 1294
• 🌐 www.maxelostyle.co.za

From R50 to Seychelles Fashion Week, Shikombiso Bila embodies the spirit of African entrepreneurship — creative, resilient, and rooted in culture.