“I am Nqobile Nkosi and my journey in jewellery design and manufacturing has been shaped by opportunity, hard work and support from the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA). The guidance and resources I received allowed me to develop my skills and grow my business into what it is today.” Such were the words of a well-respected and successful individual, in his capacity as a South-African jewellery entrepreneur, during a presentation at the recent MQA Lekgotla at the Gallagher Convention Centre.
Born and raised in Soweto, Nqobile is the founder of NQ Jewellery Design Services, a pioneering jewellery design and manufacturing company which he established in 2007. Recognised as the first local company combining manufacturing and retail of contemporary, fine jewellery in the country, NQ Jewellery provides comprehensive services covering bespoke design and custom bridal jewellery, full-scale manufacturing, corporate items and professional repairs. Nqobile’s commitment to local sourcing ensures that all jewellery is carefully crafted in South Africa using gold, silver, platinum and high-quality gemstones that are obtained from local suppliers and artisans.
Nqobile’s introduction to the jewellery industry began when he enrolled for a jewellery production course. He studied at the Soweto Jewellery School that was funded through the Imfundiso Skills Development programme of the MQA. The course is structured to combine practical experience with formal learning and leads to nationally recognised credentials in a trade that is highly marketable. Working with a variety of materials including precious metals such as gold, silver, bronze and gemstones, as well as beads, wood and glass, students are enabled to blend traditional indigenous techniques with contemporary styles.
While completing his studies in 2006 and during his practical training in jewellery manufacturing, Nkosi discovered a natural talent for both jewellery design and production. The comprehensive training combined with structured learning and hands-on experience, enabled him to develop the technical skills and entrepreneurial capabilities required for a professional career and laid the foundation for the success he enjoys today. Through his studies, Nqobile was able to formalise his skills, expand his network and translate his education into a highly successful and sustainable business that creates local employment.
Nqobile Nkosi’s personal journey also highlights the interplay between education, entrepreneurship and social impact. While studying and building his business, he started small by providing jewellery repairs and polishing services to neighbours and community members from a shack in Soweto. Today and in stark contrast to his humble beginnings his company operates a successful retail shop at Montecasino that has created retail opportunities for more than twenty small businesses. Nqobile also runs the Jewellery Village programme, which has assisted more than fifty small businesses with registration, licensing and access to raw materials. Nqobile’s achievements have received broad acclaim that includes the SAB Kickstart Award, the Young Business Leaders Award and the 2016 Tsoko Sun Entrepreneur Award, which named him the ultimate winner and program ambassador. He also gained international experience in the UK, studying and working with renowned jewellery professionals and companies, including Paul Spurgeon and Weston Beamor. During this time, he further refined his craft before returning to South Africa to invest in local talent. His dedication in this regard extends beyond personal achievement to mentorship and education. Offering free jewellery-making classes for young people, he provides aspiring designers with opportunities to gain experience and exposure.
Through a jewellery manufacturing qualification supported by MQA, Nqobile has been able to combine technical skill, creativity and entrepreneurship to build a thriving jewellery business that prioritises local talent and production as well as job creation. Reflecting on this long-term impact of his work over the past twenty years Nqobile said, “I see success as being able to move my business forward from one generation to the next.”
Soweto Sunrise News
