When Grammy Award-winning soul singer Anthony Hamilton stepped onto the Johannesburg stage this past Women’s Day, the audience saw more than just a music icon, they saw a story of ambition, artistry, and African pride stitched into every seam of his suit. Behind that suit was Ronny Mahlakwana, the Limpopo-born designer and founder of LSJ Designs, whose journey from a small town to styling international stars is inspiring a new generation of South African creatives.

Born and raised in Burgersfort, Mahlakwana, known professionally as Lawrence, didn’t start in fashion. His early path was in IT, a career choice that made sense on paper but left his creative instincts restless. “Fashion was always calling me,” he recalls. “It was the space where I could truly express myself.” That calling led him to learn under designer Rohan Quindara, refining his craft and gaining the industry insight that would one day serve him on the global stage.

The moment that would catapult LSJ Designs into the spotlight came after a meeting that would change everything: Anthony Hamilton’s team was looking for a designer who could create a look that blended African heritage with modern elegance. Mahlakwana answered the call. The result was a custom, performance-ready suit crafted from scuba crepe and scuba charmeuse, marrying breathable comfort with high-end sophistication. Earthy browns and vibrant orange accents symbolised Africa’s richness while reflecting Hamilton’s soulful, charismatic style.

“It was an absolute honour to dress Anthony Hamilton,” Mahlakwana says. “He’s a musical legend, and to create a piece that both complemented his artistry and celebrated our African identity was a dream come true. Seeing him on stage in our design was a monumental moment in my career.”

For Mahlakwana, the opportunity was more than personal achievement, it was a statement about the power and reach of South African fashion. His success story is a testament to persistence, skill, and a belief that African designers can stand on equal footing with the world’s best.

Already known for his eye for detail and ability to create statement pieces that command attention, Mahlakwana’s work with Hamilton cements LSJ Designs as a brand to watch. And for young designers across South Africa, his rise sends a powerful message: greatness can grow from humble beginnings, and with passion, vision, and craft, it can walk proudly on the world stage.