Sanctuary Mandela, a boutique hotel in Johannesburg, is highlighting South Africa’s cultural heritage through a partnership with Ledikana Creations. The hotel’s uniforms, designed by Ledikana Creations, reflect the country’s diverse cultures and traditions. This collaboration emphasises the importance of preserving and promoting traditional South African attire, particularly as Heritage Day approaches.

Vincent Monyake, General Manager of Sanctuary Mandela, said the uniforms are a key element of the hotel's identity. "Ledikana Creations’ work allows us to bring South Africa’s cultural stories to life." The garments, designed by Mapholo Ratau, are deeply rooted in traditions passed down through generations. Sanctuary Mandela's collaboration with small businesses like Ledikana Creations supports community empowerment.

Ratau, Founder and CEO of Ledikana Creations, began designing uniforms for Sanctuary Mandela last year. She works with female artisans from various regions of South Africa, including Limpopo and the Eastern Cape. Many of these artisans are retired teachers and cultural custodians who play a vital role in creating garments that blend traditional elements with contemporary design.

Ratau highlighted the deep cultural meanings in African garments. “For instance, Zulu beadwork is not just decorative; it serves as a visual language that conveys messages about identity, relationships and social status. Similarly, patterns and colours in African textiles often signify special occasions and carry symbolic meaning related to the wearer’s background and beliefs. Every garment we produce carries symbolic meaning."

By respecting the heritage and indigenous wisdom of the artisans, Ledikana Creations ensures the garments are meaningful and treated with the respect they deserve.

Ledikana Creations’ commitment to sustainability is also evident in its supply chain, which includes sourcing fabrics from Da Gama Textiles in the Eastern Cape. Ratau said this is a "golden thread" that connects everyone involved in the process – from the crafters to the buyers. She highlighted the emotional and sustainable connections fostered when authentic, locally sourced fabrics are used.

The uniforms at Sanctuary Mandela offer guests a window into South Africa’s rich history of textiles and fashion. Monyake believes the partnership with Ledikana Creations will enable the boutique hotel to showcase the country’s cultural heritage to the world. “When our guests depart, whether they remember our staff dressed in Ledikana Creations’ designs or buy the garments, they take a piece of South Africa’s heritage home with them.”