I attended International Yoga Day a while back with some friends. I got to spend some time purely on myself, tried new Yoga flows, & left feeling utterly relaxed. With the stress that every day life is throwing at me, I often feel like I am simply functioning on adrenaline & absolutely dread the day that this runs out!
While I was at this event, I got to spend a little time walking around the stalls that were there & see more of what is on offer in the fitness/wellness industry. One such stall was Black Strawberry Activewear…
I was attracted to them from their bright colours & the friendly face of Londeka who was working there. I knew I had to go over to take a look, & spent a good amount of time inspecting what they had on offer. With beautiful African-inspired prints, amazing quality fabric & beautifully designed activewear; I was suitably impressed. I went home & did some more research on them before reaching out & asking if I could do a blog on them. This clothing is made with the South African woman in mind – it embraces our curves & individuality.
Their customer service is out of this world, & they immediately responded. They even sent me the stunning set I had been eyeing out at International Yoga Day, which showed me that they truly care about their customers & pay attention to their interests. When I put it on I felt like a modern-day superwoman & loved how soft the top & tights felt against my skin. Plus another bonus is the TWO hidden pockets in the tights – if you know anything about me, you know I love a good pocket! These would be perfect for an iPod, some cash, or some lady necessities. I even got a “WOW” from husband when I walked out in it which obviously boosted my self-confidence.
Without further ado, here is the interview with the creator herself!
Your name: Mandisa Khumalo
Business name: Black Strawberry Activewear (Pty) Ltd
Social media handles: Facebook, Instagram & Website
Tell me a bit more about what you do: We are an activewear brand that focuses on providing women with unique apparel for whatever their active journey is. Precise fit. Bold colors. Eye catching designs. For women to be fearless , phenomenal and truly themselves.
How long have you been running for: Two years
What makes your clothing different to others: We want to celebrate Africa, in all its awesomeness. We try to have designs that celebrate different African cultures, the vibrant colours, art and way of life. We love highwaist leggings that accentuate a woman’s waist and pockets that makes sure that we can carry lipstick or race food or tissues and our phones wherever we workout.
Why are you so passionate about what you do: Mainly because it doesn’t feel like work; it’s fun, exciting and adventurous. My team and I get to discover that there is inspiration everywhere if we only have our eyes and hearts really open to it.
Why would you encourage people to support local: We think it’s important to support local brands as they’re like family; wouldn’t we all like to support our family members who are creating something that they are passionate about? Local brands also motivate us ‘cos they make us believe that it’s possible for all of us to achieve something from just an idea as long as we’re prepared to do the work.
Where can people buy your clothing from: Online and at pop-ups – we normally apply at different events (running races, health and wellness expos etc) and depending on the cost, we pop-up there.
Why are you passionate about living a healthy, happy life: WOW, where do I start; a healthy lifestyle helps me keep fit, full of energy, unstoppable, lets me explore different sports and live an adventurous life. I’m also more aware of what I eat and the effect it has on my mood, my body and my life as a whole.
Quote you live by: I don’t have one quote but have five statements I keep on my bathroom wall (so I can revisit them everytime I brush my teeth)
(1) I am capable of learning and developing
(2) I can put effort into improving myself
(3) Challenges are opportunities to grow
(4) Feedback helps me to improve
(5) Failure gives me an opportunity to try again and do better
You guys! Are you not just completely enamored by this company & everything that they stand for? And don’t you love that they EMBRACE our bodies for what they are, rather than trying to force us to fit into society’s mold of ‘perfection’?
I would pick a size up from your regular, as they are quite tight fitting & you don’t want to be uncomfortable in your gorgeous new outfit! They also have some great inspiration tees available – my friend bought some & they are also a gorgeous quality, & so so stunning. I think we all need a reminder to be fearless, & perhaps there are other ladies out there that need to hear this too!
Thank you so much Mandisa & Londeka for this opportunity, & for your kindness. I absolutely adore you & all that you are doing. I can’t wait to see what else you bring to us, & I am super excited to see you at the next event!
