At FIELDS, we are continually inspired by artists whose work speaks to heritage, craft, and the quiet beauty of intentional creation. Our latest collaboration with The Ninevites founded by Nkuli Mlangeni-Berg, brings these values to life through the Zenzile Design - a woven piece created in the Karoo, rich with history and stillness. In this conversation, Nkuli shares her journey, her creative philosophy, and the meaning woven into this collaboration.
Your work through The Ninevites places deep value on heritage, storytelling, and ethical craft.
Ours is an oral history, and so much was erased by colonialism. This platform allows me to dig into some of those stories through interaction with the older generation, research, and collaborations I’ve had across the African continent. I get to learn in real time about who we are and where we come from.
You often speak about honouring Black culture and preserving heritage. In what ways does this artwork reflect those commitments?
The design comes from the Sankara Collection, inspired by my isiNguni heritage. Both my parents are half Swati and half Ndebele, but I realised I didn’t actually know much about what that meant. Growing up, I saw my great-grandmother wearing colourful beads or headpieces without ever asking why. This artwork was a way to reconnect with that heritage, to learn more about my people.
On the FIELDS Collaboration...
You founded The Ninevites as a collaborative platform. How do you approach creative partnerships, and what made this collaboration with FIELDS feel right?
I’ve always loved working collaboratively—the way The Ninevites is structured, it would be impossible to do it alone. I rely on artisans, graphic designers, and other collaborators. Having that community makes everything possible. The FIELDS collaboration worked because the brand aligns with our values, the product is beautiful, and the quality is on point.
Our collaborative piece, Zenzile Design, was woven in the Karoo. How did this setting influence the work?
The Karoo is one of my favourite landscapes in South Africa. I love working with the women at the weavery, and the fact that the fibres come from the region makes it even more special. Like the Karoo itself, the design is bold yet modest.
‘Zenzile’ is a powerful name. Can you tell us more about it?
The piece is named after Miriam Makeba (her African name was Zenzile Makeba.) She was stylish, beautiful, and powerful, not only as an artist but also in her activism during the struggle against apartheid.
This collaboration connects your life in Stockholm with the weaving community in Prince Albert. How do you navigate these different worlds?
Travel, community, and bringing different worlds together is at the heart of The Ninevites.
What did you learn about yourself or your practice through this collaboration with FIELDS?
I worked in fashion years ago but lost my connection with it. Seeing how FIELDS works - with such intention - was inspiring. It reminded me of my love for fashion and made me dream of new possibilities for The Ninevites.
Zenzile Design translates traditional weaving into contemporary fashion. What was important to you in bridging that gap?
I love creating designs that are functional but also collectible, those pieces that you’d want to keep forever. The weaving itself is art, and together with the design, it creates something timeless.
On What’s Next...
Looking forward, how do you hope collaborations like this reshape the way people think about African design, sustainability, and craftsmanship?
Too often, African design is described as ‘emerging,’ but we’ve moved past that. The conversation must shift. This collaboration is an example: two world-class brands creating beautiful work while honouring both people and planet.
What’s next for The Ninevites?
We’re relaunching with more intention. We’ve been offering workshops and consulting but haven’t shared much of it online. Now we’ll be putting more energy into showcasing that side of our work.
Finally, what advice would you give to young South African creatives finding their voice?
Just put yourself out there: don’t wait. People won’t know what you’re doing unless you show them. It doesn’t matter if it’s perfect; what matters is that you’re trying.
The Zenzile Design is part of the FIELDS Artist Collaboration Series, an ongoing exploration of creativity across disciplines.
The collection includes:
- FIELDS x The Ninevites Sweater in Wool & Mohair
- FIELDS x The Ninevites Tote in Cotton
- FIELDS x The Ninevites Box Sweater in Cotton
- FIELDS x The Ninevites Field Jacket
- FIELDS x The Ninevites General Jacket (coming soon)