Byline: Levhuwani Matumba
03 September 2026
Members of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature (MPLs) visited Gemstone Jeans and Projects (Pty) Ltd in Mhluzi, Middelburg, as part of the ongoing Taking Legislature to the People (TLP) programme in Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.
Gemstone Jeans and Projects is a youth-owned clothing and branding enterprise and a beneficiary of the Premier’s Youth Development Fund (PYDF).
The visit forms part of the Legislature’s oversight responsibilities, aimed at following up on government-funded projects and ensuring that public funds are being used for their intended purposes.
The oversight visit provided MPLs with an opportunity to assess the progress of the business, its operations and the impact of government support on youth entrepreneurship and job creation.
Gemstone Jeans was co-founded by Nicolas Nhlapo, a young entrepreneur living with a disability, and Noxolo Mapengu.
The business started as a passion project driven by design and craftsmanship but has since grown into a promising youth-led fashion enterprise in Mpumalanga.
The company provides a range of services, including denim wear, custom clothing, embroidery, laser engraving and branding,
serving individuals, schools, retailers and corporate clients.
The business is among the beneficiaries demonstrating the impact of the PYDF, having expanded its operations and created employment opportunities for young people.
Gemstone Jeans currently employs six young people, including its two directors.
The success of Gemstone Jeans serves as an example of how investment in young entrepreneurs can translate into business growth, skills development and job creation within local communities.
