10 Apr 2025

In a society where certain industries are often perceived as male-dominated, Tumisang Ngwanathebe is carving a niche for herself in the world of leather. 

As the founder of Skin and Things Consultancy, she is not just creating exquisite leather products; she embodies determination, perseverance, and a commitment to sustainability, all while empowering others and proving that gender should not dictate success.

Ngwanathebe’s journey began in 2010, inspired by her parents’ involvement in leather tanning and processing. 

Growing up in a family that worked with leather, she developed a deep appreciation for its potential. “I realised that leather can be the second diamond of Botswana,” she said, highlighting the resource’s untapped value.

Her commitment to environmentally friendly practices sets her apart in the industry. Ngwanathebe sources hides and skins from local butcheries, weddings, and even funerals, often acquiring them at no cost. This method not only reduces waste but also creates a unique and eco-friendly resource for her creations. 

She skillfully transforms hides from goats, sheep, cows, camels, and even wild animals like lions and cheetahs into finished goods, showcasing her extensive material expertise.

The transformation from raw hide to finished product is a meticulous and sustainable process. Ngwanathebe incorporates natural resources such as Zutshwa salt, lime (kalaka), and the Elephantorrhiza elephantina plant (mositshane) while using herbs to produce different colours. “I use hand tools for crafting my work because they are more durable compared to machine work,” she explains.

Despite her accomplishments, Ngwanathebe admits she faces challenges, including a lack of market, limited skilled manpower, transportation costs for harvesting herbs and collecting hides, equipment costs, and financial constraints. She also encounters difficulties with improperly skinned hides from some suppliers.

Her expertise has gained national and international recognition; she trained with the Botswana Training Authority (BOTA) as a trainer and assessor. 

Her accolades include winning first prize at the 2010 Botswana Consumer Fair, where she competed with other SADC countries and earned the Local Manufacturing Award. More recently, in 2023, she received the 1^st Prize at the Global Expo - Productivity Award, again among SADC countries.

Through Skin and Things Consultancy, Ngwanathebe produces a diverse array of goods, including corporate gift bags, wine bags, knife pouches, belts, traditional mats, flowerpots, and hats. Not only do her creations highlight the beauty and versatility of leather, but they also contribute significantly to the local economy.

Beyond her entrepreneurial success, Ngwanathebe is dedicated to uplifting her community by offering training in leather tanning and product creation. Her advice to women is, ‘Women should no longer think there are male-dominated fields.” 

She also emphasises the importance of patience and determination in business. Her journey serves as a reminder that with passion, perseverance and respect for the environment and community, anything is possible. ENDS