HOME AFFAIRS

These three entrepreneurs are redefining the heartbeat of homes through their unique blend of creativity, sustainability and purposeful design.

- CHARIS TORRANCE

Mo's Crib

MO AND MICHELLE MOKONE

Who would have thought that a trip to a market could change your life's trajectory for the better? The sister duo Mo and Michelle Mokone have built a thriving manufacturing and design company that brings customers practical, stylish, and sustainable home decor items. Their product range includes handwoven baskets, planters, trays, wall art and outdoor items, all made using recycled materials. But Mo's Crib is more than just about saving the planet; the sisters are also giving back to their community.

How did the idea for Mo's Crib come about?
Mo: At the age of 8, I would turn plastic bags into rugs and candleholders. I ended up pushing myself to be more academic because that's what my parents wanted, and it's what most people tend to lean towards. So I enrolled to study law, but it didn't feel right. I ended up moving to London at the age of 18, where I jumped from one job to the next. My Japanese roommate taught me origami and I began to make origami swan bowls for friends. In 2015, I found myself back in South Africa when my sister invited me to the Kamers market in Pretoria. There, I saw someone who made sculptures using newspaper, and they were doing really well. That same evening my sister and I applied to sell at Kamers, and in 2016 we started trading there.

How did you take Mo's Crib from a side hustle to a fully-fledged business?

Michelle: At the time, we both had full-time jobs. We weren't doing it for the money; it was fun and just an opportunity to experience market life and sell this art. People were interested in the product, especially because of its sustainability (made from upcycled materials, specifically newspaper at the time) and its practicality. We ended up winning the Best Product of the Market award. The next year, we introduced PVC baskets.