PRESS RELEASE
Clothing factory empowering women in what is to be considered a low skill Industry.
XO Collection – A Beautiful South African Story
“How you dress expresses who you are and your personality before people
say a word to you”. What started as a passion project led Xoliswa Hlongwane, a Chartere d Accountant by
profession, to leave her full time professional career to pursue her dream of starting a
business, educating, and empowering women in the clothing manufacturing industry.
A mentor, a mother, and an entrepreneur, born in Lamontville, her story of courage and
resilience has led to her permanently employing 15 women who are breadwinners in their
homes as well as part time and c o ntract st aff during busy seasons.
Through XO Collection, she creates a safe space for women to learn, unlearn, innovate, grow,
a nd empower ea ch other for economic relevance in our country. More importantly, the
young wo men employed by XO Collection, are falling in love with the clothing industry whi ch
is very critical given the aging workforce challenges faced by the industry.
XO Collection was established in 2018 and is currently based in Durban. The business
specialises in:
- The design and manufacturing of high end fashion garments
- Design and manufacturing of custom corporate wear
- Distribution of reputable workwear and corporate wear brands
Through
XO Collection, Xoliswa Hlongwane’s objective is to change the narrative around the
clothing industry and educate people about the crucial behind the scenes work that
produces their beautiful and trendy fashion or corporate wear.
Through an opportunity secured with the help of the KZN Clothing and Textile Cluster, XO
Collection learnt to bulk manufacture security combat shirts for two well known workwear
brands. Through a long standing agreement with a local fashion boutique, XO C ollection staff
are challenged every day to produce even the most complex fashion styles from some of the
most delicate and expensive fabrics.
XO Collection is a responsible corporate citizen and recognizes their responsibility to build
communities by donating education al toys and uniforms to disadvantaged child ren and
establishments.
XO Collection believes in the beauty of the stories of ordinary South Africans.
END.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
XO Collection Marketing Partner (Foremothers Media)
Nomthandazo Mchunu
Email: nomthandazo@foremothersmedia.co.za
Call: 068 208 8297
