Every time you choose Wild Mongoo, there is a person on the other end of that gift. Not a factory, not a machine, but a real woman in a bright pink workshop in George, whose day just got a little brighter because you did. Everything we make is handmade in George by a team of women who arrived looking for an opportunity and stayed to build something far bigger than a job. Ahead of Mandela Day, we thought it was time you properly met them.
This is the one story only we can tell, and honestly, it is our favourite. So grab a cuppa, get comfy, and say hello to the humans behind the handmade.
From vulnerability to ability
Right outside our workshop, a little signpost points the way: Wild Mongoo, Vulnerability, Ability. It is not just decoration. It is the whole point of us. Wild Mongoo exists so that women facing hard circumstances can find real work, learn real skills, and walk a path from vulnerability to genuine independence. One hundred percent of our proceeds fund exactly that.
What that looks like day to day is a room full of sewing machines, beads, fabric and laughter, where someone who walked in unsure of herself slowly discovers she is capable of far more than she ever believed. Skills are learned. Promotions are earned. Stories get rewritten. And it all happens right here, handmade in George.
A regular day at the workshop. Or as we call it, a sisterhood at full volume.
The women who make it
These are just some of the women whose hands touch your order before it ever reaches your door, in their teammates' own words.
Rose is a quiet and gentle soul with a heart full of kindness. She has a real talent for sewing, always encourages those around her, and her warm smile brightens every room.
Sandisiwe has a real passion for design and creativity. She loves challenging herself, exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what she can create.
Chante is a quiet leader who leads with kindness, encouragement and grace. Dependable and motivated, she approaches every task with excellence and always gets the job done.
Jodene is a true all-rounder. Whether she is sewing, embroidering, ironing or taking on a brand new challenge, she adapts quickly, learns fast, and is always willing to lend a helping hand wherever it is needed.
Ricky is a fast learner who has truly blossomed. She brings a positive attitude to everything she does and is always encouraging and uplifting the women around her.
Betty teaches with incredible patience and kindness. Her deafness has never limited her. Instead, her experience inspires and equips her to support, encourage and empower others as they learn and grow.
Meagan is one of the biggest sources of joy in our workplace. With her wonderful sense of humour, friendly smile and supportive nature, she brings a calm and peaceful presence wherever she goes.
Xoliswa is a determined and faithful woman who never gives up. She faces every challenge with perseverance, works hard through the difficult moments, and is always committed to giving her very best.
Denina is our store manager and the heart of so much that happens at Wild Mongoo. She keeps everyone on their toes, works incredibly hard, and is always speaking positivity, encouragement and life into those around her.
Lorikah is a kind, thoughtful and well-spoken woman. She leads with compassion, creativity and purpose, and has a genuine passion for communication, inspiring others and bringing creative ideas to life.
In their own words
We celebrate these women, but we would never speak for them. So here is what a couple of them wanted to say themselves.
Wild Mongoo is a sisterhood. It has given me a place to grow, heal, and become the person I was created to be. It makes me feel loved, valued and at peace. Being here gives me a sense of comfort, because I know I am building a brighter future and have so much to look forward to.- Ninna
All cultures are welcome, there is diversity, and we don't feel judged at all. It is a safe space to be yourself and be accepted.- Abigail
Why this matters, especially in July
Mandela Day, on 18 July, is a day South Africa sets aside to give a little of ourselves to someone else. For us, that is not a once-a-year gesture. It is every single order, all year round. Every gift you buy puts meaningful work, valuable skills and lasting opportunity into the hands of a woman in George who is building a brighter future for herself and her family.
So when you shop Wild Mongoo, you are not just buying something beautiful and handmade in George. You are backing a story, and you are written right into it. Thank you for being part of hers.
Made by these hands
A few favourites from the range, all handmade in George.
