About

My name is Ongezwa Mbanga, and I am the founder and designer behind POPI Atelier. My journey into fashion began with a deep love for creating and working with fabric. I grew up in a home filled with creativity, where my mother would knit and sew clothes for us. I believe my appreciation and passion for clothing began there.

I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design from the University of Johannesburg, where I developed my technical skills, design knowledge, and understanding of the fashion industry.

At POPI Atelier, I primarily create made-to-order pieces, allowing each garment to be thoughtfully designed and tailored for the person who will wear it. This approach encourages a more sustainable way of producing clothing, as garments are created only when needed, helping to reduce unnecessary waste and overproduction. It also allows me to focus on quality, attention to detail, and creating pieces that feel meaningful and personal to the wearer.

As a designer, I am still exploring and discovering my unique style. I believe that a designer’s signature style evolves over time through experience, experimentation, and creativity, and I enjoy the journey of allowing that style to develop naturally along the way.

I appreciate the entire process of bringing a garment to life—from the initial idea and design to the careful construction of each piece. For me, fashion is more than just clothing; it is a form of expression that reflects identity, confidence, and creativity.

As part of my training and growth in the fashion industry, I completed my Work Integrated Learning (WIL) internship with Otiz Seflo, where I gained valuable industry experience and insight into professional fashion production and design.

I have also had the opportunity to showcase my work at the Isingqi Sethu Cultural Festival, where I was able to present my designs to a wider audience and celebrate fashion through creativity and culture.

Through POPI Atelier, I aim to create garments that are thoughtfully designed and carefully made. I believe strongly in craftsmanship, attention to detail, and creating pieces that feel special to the person wearing them.

As a designer, I continue to learn, explore new techniques, and grow creatively, with the goal of building POPI Atelier into a brand that celebrates originality, culture, and the art of making clothing.