MaXhosa Africa's Lindelwa Foundation auction dinner raises over R1 million for community upliftment

The inaugural fundraising event by MaXhosa Africa, the Lindelwa Foundation Auction Dinner, successfully raised over R1 million.

Named in honour of Lindelwa Ngxokolo, a passionate community leader and the mother of the founder, Laduma Ngxokolo, The Lindelwa Foundation serves as the official social impact arm of MaXhosa Africa.

Held at their Johannesburg creative space, which is home to MaXhosa’s factory, design and retail space and office. The Johannesburg skyline lit up the swanky rooftop, and guests dressed in their finest cultural black tie with a touch of the African luxury brand.

Actress, presenter and executive producer Minnie Dlamini was the host for the evening, fresh from serving legs on her Los Angeles trip. 

Laduma, in his speech, reflected on his mother’s life, growing up in New Brighton, Gqeberha, in the 1960s and 70s. “She had a huge ambition of being one of the greatest knitwear designers in South Africa.”

The designer shared how being an entrepreneur has been in their blood, from their grandparents, with their mother’s entrepreneurial spirit and sense of innovation being something they remember her for.

Despite their mother experiencing financial difficulties, their education was something she did not compromise on. Laduma recalls how, even when school fees were not paid, they never missed out on school.

The cultural icon shared that his mother, before she passed, told them there was no inheritance for them except for the life lessons she had equipped them with and the gift of education. 

The auction consisted of items such as a stay at Sun City’s Palace Hotel, gold teardrop earrings from Nungu Diamond that were first worn by “Shaka iLembe” actress Nomzamo Mbatha, a MaXhosa jewellery set, earrings, a bracelet and a necklace. 

There were also various artwork pieces, including one from renowned artist Nelson Makomo, artist Saneze Giyama a MaXhosa couple’s atelier service. 

The foundation focuses on education and community upliftment and provides modelling master classes, beadwork and textile workshops and business acumen. The Lindelwa Foundation was launched last year on the founder’s mother’s birth date, August 18.

Laduma expressed relief at the end of the auction, noting that pulling it off was not easy, but it was a worthwhile experience. 

The renowned designer also revealed that in November, MaXhosa will be hosting a fashion show and expressed excitement over the 2026 MaXhosa Kulture Fest, which has become a firm favourite among the brand's supporters.

Johannesburg-based chef Kelly Njokweni curated a three-course menu, and after the successful auction, award-winning musician Msaki got guests dancing on their feet to her hits.

IOL