Sanctuary Mandela and Ledikana honour South African traditional wear in uniform design

At Sanctuary Mandela, South Africa’s rich heritage is woven into every aspect of its identity. The staff uniforms, designed by Ledikana Creations, showcase the diverse cultures that make up the nation. Through this partnership, guests experience South Africa’s cultural heritage firsthand, celebrated through fashion, craftsmanship, and textiles. As Heritage Day approaches, Sanctuary Mandela honours the partnerships that preserve and promote the cultural identities of traditional South African wear.

Sanctuary Mandela preserves South African heritage

“Ledikana Creations’ work allows us to bring South Africa’s cultural stories to life,” says Vincent Monyake, General Manager of Sanctuary Mandela. “Mapholo Ratau’s garments are deeply rooted in traditions handed down through generations. By supporting small businesses like hers, which are dedicated to community empowerment, Sanctuary Mandela helps to preserve South African heritage and promote sustainable development.”

Mapholo Ratau, the founder, designer, and CEO of Ledikana Creations, began designing the uniforms for Sanctuary Mandela last year. A boutique hotel in Houghton, Johannesburg, and the former home of Nelson Mandela. She collaborates with women artisans across South Africa, from Limpopo to the Eastern Cape. 

“Many of these women are retired teachers and keepers of cultural knowledge passed down through generations. They are the heart of Ledikana’s creations. We encourage our artisans to express their cultural heritage freely, resulting in garments that blend tradition with modernity,” Ratau explains.

Rich in Heritage

Ratau’s approach deeply respects each garment’s cultural significance. “African garments often carry deep meaning, expressing identity, status, and tradition,” she says. For example, Zulu beadwork is not merely decorative—it is a visual language that conveys messages about identity, relationships, and social status rooted in the community’s values and history. Patterns and colours in African textiles are often reserved for special occasions and can communicate the wearer’s background and beliefs.

“Every garment we produce carries symbolic meaning,” Ratau continues. “We work with the heritage and indigenous wisdom of our artisans, ensuring that these garments are treated with the respect they deserve and can exist meaningfully in the spaces they inhabit.”

Maintaining a sustainable and ethical supply chain is essential in an era dominated by fast fashion and mass production. Ledikana sources fabrics from Da Gama Textiles, in Zwelitsha, Eastern Cape. “A ‘golden thread’ of joy runs through our entire supply chain, from production to the final garment—shared by makers, crafters, buyers, and tourists alike. When crafters work with authentic, locally sourced South African fabrics, their passion is evident. This ecosystem creates emotional and sustainable connections. Celebrating the diverse cultures and heritage that define South Africa — from the maker’s pride in crafting a beautiful piece to the joy someone feels when interacting with and appreciating these garments. This intersection of fashion and tourism is vital,” Ratau says.

“International visitors should engage with and appreciate the depth of African culture, and the creators should feel confident that their heritage is honoured and respected.”

Sanctuary Mandela spreading culture for everyone to appreciate

The uniforms designed by Ledikana at Sanctuary Mandela offer guests a glimpse into South Africa’s rich history of fabrics and fashion, nurturing a deeper appreciation for the heritage that shapes the nation. “We are proud to partner with Ledikana and showcase South Africa’s cultural and fashion heritage to the world,” says Monyake. “When our guests depart, whether they remember our staff dressed in Ledikana’s designs or take home one of their garments, they take a piece of South Africa’s heritage home with them. This is the essence of Sanctuary Mandela’s ethos—creating lasting emotional and cultural connections,” he concludes.

For more information visit Sanctuary Mandela or Ledikana.