The 2017 Design Indaba Emerging Creative collaborates with weavers from his hometown in KwaZulu-Natal to produce handwoven goods. >

From smog eating roof tiles to sweatshirts that react to different kinds of pollution and more. >

The designer and innovator believes in pushing the limits of science, textiles and the natural world. >

“I wanted every aspect of the project to be Proudly South African, to invest in South African resources and simultaneously contribute to growing the economy.” >

The former Design Indaba Emerging Creative recently exhibited her furniture brand, Urbanative, at Milan Design Week. >

Italian innovation and design firm Carlo Ratti Associati’s ‘Feel the Peel’ juice bar creates bioplastic cups made from oranges. >

This compact green wall cleanses the air of pollutants and acts as a sound barrier for congested urban areas. >

Agraloop Bio-Refinery produces high value bio-materials from food waste. >

The tech geniuses of Silicon Valley are developing machines capable of reading your brainwaves. >

She talks about projects that include dyeing clothes using bacteria, developing a residency programme and her love for Solange, Mafikizolo and Bjork. >

By creating practical, locally made art and furniture, Mbele hopes to inspire younger South African designers to learn and teach. >