Soweto Jeweller Nqobile Nkosi Turns Adversity into Success
What began as a reluctant foray into jewellery-making has blossomed into a glittering success story for Nqobile Nkosi, a Soweto-born jeweller who has transformed his humble beginnings into a thriving business with an international footprint.
Nkosi, a qualified jeweller, launched his company, NQ Jewellery Design Services, in 2007 from a backroom shack in Soweto.
Today, the company employs five people and exports handcrafted jewellery to the United Kingdom. Nkosi’s unique designs have caught the attention of high-profile clients, including South Africa’s First Lady, Dr. Tshepo Motsepe, and luxury hospitality giant Tsogo Sun Hotels.
The road to success was unconventional for Nkosi, who initially dreamed of becoming an electrical engineer. After high school, his search for a bursary led him to an unexpected opportunity in jewellery manufacturing.
With no funding available for engineering studies, he decided to give jewellery-making a try, unwilling to remain idle. To his surprise, he fell in love with the craft and excelled in his studies, eventually completing an internship in the United Kingdom to further refine his skills.
Upon returning to South Africa, Nkosi and his brother launched NQ Jewellery in the family’s backyard shack, pouring creativity and determination into their fledgling business. The brand has since grown into a reputable name in the jewellery industry, renowned for its bespoke designs and craftsmanship.
Nkosi’s talent and entrepreneurial spirit have earned him recognition, including the prestigious Tsogo Sun Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2016, where he emerged victorious among 200 small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs). One of his proudest moments came when Dr. Tshepo Motsepe donned a pair of his earrings on the cover of a magazine, showcasing the artistry of Soweto on a national stage.
Nkosi continues to inspire a new generation of creatives in Soweto and beyond, proving that even the most unanticipated paths can lead to dazzling success.