By Noko Mashilo
The pulpit is a symbol of power, a raised platform from which pastors deliver the word of God. However, fashion designer Benton Thapola from GaPhago in Moletji, Limpopo, has transformed this message into a clothing line for both men and women. Thapola brings Bible verses to life by printing each garment with his or her favourite scriptures.
Thapola shared with Vutivi News that his clothing range spreads the word of God without the need to open a Bible. “I launched Bible Wear in 2015 in Johannesburg’s CBD where I am still trading. Initially, I aimed to create Christian content as a filmmaker. While praying for guidance, a voice whispered that I should venture into the clothing industry, despite knowing nothing about it. That’s how the high-end brand Bible Wear was born,” said Thapola.
He added that his clothing label not only delivered a message to those who saw and read it but also inspired and reminded them that nothing was impossible. Thapola, who has worked as a director and producer on various TV shows like Isidingo, Scandal!, Rhythm City and several gospel programmes, is passionate about sharing this belief.
After running Bible Wear for three years, he realised that he needed funding to purchase his own equipment as he was previously sourcing materials from other manufacturers. “I approached NYDA [National Youth Development Agency], who enrolled me in their five-day incubator programme where I learned the basics of running a business, including finance, management, marketing and advertising. Although I didn’t receive funding, I gained valuable skills, knowledge and the right attitude to apply to my business,” he said.
Thapola said the training helped him penetrate the market and leverage social media for advertising. “I was able to grow my sales, leading to the establishment of my own workspace, machinery and team. This allowed me to dress celebrities such as Motlatsi Mafatshe, the Sadiki twins Innocentia and Millicent, Ayanda Shange, Lira, Benjamin Dube, Busi Radebe and many more. I am currently producing garments for the cast of Skeem Saam and Scandal!,” he said.
It is no surprise that Bible Wear has reached San Francisco, California. “This happened after author Thuli Mashazi bought a dress from us for her book cover photo shoot. Someone in the USA saw the cover and loved the dress. Since 2019, this doctor has been purchasing our clothing in bulk to resell in the USA,” said Thapola.
Some of Thapola’s challenges in the clothing business include sourcing the right fabrics and finding reliable manufacturers. “This sometimes forces us to settle for whatever is available, which can compromise quality. Another challenge is operating without working capital. We often have to wait for customer orders before proceeding, which can impact time management,” he said. Thapola ultimately enjoys being creative and bringing people’s ideas to life beyond their expectations.
