Nic & Nic

Nic & Nic is a South African accessory brand founded by Nichole Nyalungu, based in the Makhonjwa Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The brand transforms discarded inner tyre tubes and locally sourced materials into durable, functional bags and accessories. Nic & Nic combines sustainability, community empowerment, and cultural storytelling, creating products that are not only practical and stylish but also socially and environmentally impactful.

Features

Resources and materials

Works primarily with discarded inner tyre tubes
Uses locally sourced fabrics, cotton, and metal hardware for finishing touches
Inner tyre tubes sourced through REDISA (The Waste Bureau)
Holds certifications and recognitions including The Waste Bureau Accreditation, Export & Import Certificate, Entrepreneur Certificate of Achievement, and Corporate Social Responsibility recognition

Making and manufacturing

All products handcrafted in-house at Nic & Nic’s off-grid workshop
Manufacturing avoids toxic chemicals; tyre tubes and fabrics are treated to ensure products are safe for daily use
Waste reduction through repurposing offcuts into smaller items and recycling scraps

Social and cultural

Empowers rural community members by providing skills training, fair pay, and sustainable livelihood opportunities

Product and design

Key design elements: functionality, durability, timeless style, and cultural storytelling
Durability ensured through robust materials, high-quality stitching, finishing techniques, and real-world testing
End-of-life strategy: products can be repaired, repurposed, or recycled into new pieces using offcuts