Katlehong-born brothers Prince and Warren Meko, known as the “Meko twins,” are multi-disciplinary artists and founders of the certified local brand “House of Leather,” MADONSELA. They are also co-founders of KASI VOGUE, creative directors of 68 Madonsela’s “LERATO LA STUPU” costume designs, and renowned stylists.
Fueled by their commitment to township empowerment, the brothers are proud of their passion for community upliftment. They use their platform to inspire others, making them a creative force to be reckoned with. Their distinctive view of modern African punk, incorporated into their high-end leather aesthetic, sets them apart.
Having worked with prominent local figures such as Lady Du, Moozlie, Shekhinah, Riky Rick, Kwesta, Oskido, DJ Tira, Mafikizolo, Sampa The Great, and Sjava, the fashion house debuted their AW25 MATSATSI HA A TSHWANE (Days Are Not the Same) collection earlier this week. The collection’s lookbook features collaborations with talents like Zola Nombona, Pearl Thusi, Nhlanhla Mafu, Lethabo Sara, and Kebaabetswe.
That said, we not only managed to ask the brothers a few questions in a Q&A that delves into the inspiration behind the collection, the use of leather, personal style influences, and the evolution of MADONSELA, but we were also humbled to exclusively publish the lookbook.
Seasons are not just mere divisions of the year; they are essential elements that enrich our lives. From the blossoming of spring to the abundance of summer, the beauty of autumn, and the serenity of winter, each season contributes to the balance and rhythm of our existence. Whether we are admiring the colours of fall, savouring the warmth of summer, or embracing the crisp air of winter, the seasons are a reminder of the perpetual cycle of life and the beauty that accompanies it. Bare reminder that each day is a contribution to each season. We welcome you to Matsatsi Ha Tshwane.
Here’s what the “Meko” twins had to say about their new collection below:
What was the inspiration behind this collection?
“Matsatsi Ha a Tshwane” is inspired by our humble beginnings and triumphs as we navigate the creative industry and life in general. It reflects how days can be unpredictable and highlights the importance of finding inner gratification through understanding life’s paradoxes and cycles. We realized that true change and fulfillment come not only from intellectual pursuits but also from practical engagement with the world. Life’s journey is filled with highs and lows, triumphs and tribulations.
Through our experiences, we’ve learned that it’s not the absence of challenges that defines our lives but how we navigate and grow through them. With this collection, we aim to offer a glimpse into our personal journey, hoping that the lessons we’ve learned can inspire and guide others facing their own trials. This collection draws from our personal experiences and an understanding of the imbalance of what lies ahead.
What do you want people to notice first when they see this collection?
ART
How did you choose the materials for these designs?
At MADONSELA, leather is integral to all our designs. It has become our brand’s trademark, symbolizing and representing our unique identity.
In this collection, we aim to share a glimpse into our personal journey, hoping that the lessons we’ve learned can serve as a source of inspiration and guidance
What is the significance of all black designs in this collection?
We chose to create all-black pieces for this collection to symbolize breaking through darkness and allowing nature to guide us back to warmer grounds. Black also represents the bold characteristics we embody and the confidence that comes with it. It reflects our journey of embracing our flaws and weaknesses, feeling free on the surface, and accepting these aspects as they arise in our lives.
Can you tell us about the creative process for the collection?
Our creative process is driven by feeling, experience, and emotion, which imparts a sensitive touch to our designs. Infused with carefully crafted ideas and techniques, our work becomes more appealing and rewarding. We allow ourselves to remain free and open to new and creative ideas, which prevents us from limiting the potential outcomes of our work.
Our creative process is stimulated by feeling, experience & emotion which gives our designs a very sensitive sense for our work.
How does this collection differ from your previous work?
This collection marks a departure from our previous work; it emerges from a deeply sacred place. After one of us experienced a near-death accident, we were forced to re-evaluate and redirect our journey amid a period of emotional upheaval and near depression. Through this darkness, we had to gather ourselves and reconnect with our core purpose. This collection is a reflection of our experiences, symbolizing how it saved us from what could have been the worst time of our lives. It embodies the ability to overcome challenges and undertake tasks that require greater attention and effort.
How do you see these designs fitting into the modern fashion world?
We have always aimed for our designs to serve as a bridge to a new world of modern fashion, introducing a style that is edgy and bold, yet incorporates simple elements that make it easy and enjoyable to wear. At the same time, we embrace the possibility of being extravagant when necessary. This is why we also focus on bespoke designs in our creative approach.
What role does nature play in your design choices, as seen in the set?
Each season brings different types of weather, serving as a metaphor for navigating life’s storms. Our collection, titled “Matsatsi Ha a Tshwane,” meaning “Days Are Not the Same,” draws inspiration from nature and its cycles, which play a crucial role in our exploration of how moments change and how we must adapt to an ever-evolving world—embracing opportunities, overcoming obstacles, achieving milestones, celebrating triumphs, facing challenges, and experiencing rebirth.
There are seasons of sowing and waiting to harvest, as well as seasons of testing and breakthrough. Difficult times are necessary for good weather to follow. Our collection reflects a series of events that alter our perspectives and directional patterns in life. Collaborating with PAUL SHAIKILLS, whose genius in understanding and articulating our vision was unparalleled, was instrumental in creating this beautiful composition. His exceptional talent played a vital role in bringing our vision to life.
How does your personal style influence your designs?
Our brand is built on our personal aesthetics, allowing us to embody our brand on a daily basis. It is a profound experience to share a part of ourselves with the world through our work, and this is what we aspire to achieve through MADONSELA.
There are seasons of seed time, waiting to harvest, seasons of testing & breakthrough, the difficult seasons are necessary for good weathers to come.
How do you see your brand evolving in the future?
As Katlehong-born artists from the East side of Johannesburg’s township, we aspire for our brand to achieve heights that might seem like a dream for a young Black individual. We believe that true definition comes from character, not environmental barriers. Our goal is to rise as the leading leather manufacturer in Africa.
Credits
Creative direction @paulshiakallis @warren_meko & @prince_okem @madonsel_a
Photography @paulshiakallis
Photographers Assistant: @hlengiwelala
Fashion directors: @warren_meko & @prince_okem @discocreatives
Make-up artist: @mentallyskye
Hairstylist: CELIO
Location @small.world.spaces
Post Production @bliip.media
Gear house : @oncueinterface
Video:
@twofoldza
Director: @simba.raws
DP: @cheddar_nunez
Special thanks: @oncueinterface
Featured:
@pearlthusi
@znombona
@nhlanhla_mafu
@lethabo_sara @bossmodelsjhb
@_kebasebola @lampost.people
