By Nothando Masilela
Since opening its first concept store at Malandela’s Lifestyle in 2020, Dala Spaces has been a driving force behind the growth and empowerment of local brands, particularly women-led businesses, in the Kingdom of Eswatini. With the opening of their second store in 2022, in collaboration with Baobab Batik, Dala Spaces has continued to solidify its role in promoting local craftsmanship and fostering commercial opportunities.
Now, Dala Spaces is embarking on an exciting new mission: the creation of the Dala Database. This platform is designed to profile creative professionals across various fields—models, stylists, graphic designers, photographers, and more—making it easier for businesses and individuals to connect with them. By offering a space where creative talent can be discovered, the Dala Database is set to foster growth and collaboration for both established and emerging talent alike.
With a focus on promoting local handcraft as the foundation of their business, Dala Spaces is proud to represent 37 brands, 84% of which are women-led. By offering retail opportunities, marketing support, workshops, mentoring, and collaborations, Dala Spaces provides its members with the tools they need to thrive in the creative industry, while also empowering women entrepreneurs.
We spoke with Bronwen Evans, Marketing Manager of Dala Spaces, who shared more insights into the vision behind the Dala Database and the company’s impact on Eswatini’s creative sector.
Q: What inspired the concept behind Dala Spaces?
A: Dala Spaces is more than just a store that sells local handcrafted products. It’s a creative concept space that gives each brand the opportunity to express its unique identity and to communicate that with intention to customers. Our goal is to create a space where local artisans can tell their stories and connect with customers in an intentional way.
Q: How does one get to be a member of Dala Spaces and what are the benefits of being part of it?
A: We welcome small business owners who produce authentic, locally made products. It’s important that the products are created here in Eswatini. While we feature some guest international brands that align with our ethos—sustainability, social impact, and women-owned businesses—our focus is on supporting local talent. Members benefit from retail space, marketing assistance, workshops, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities, with a strong emphasis on empowering women-led businesses.
Q: Tell us about the Dala Database and how it will be selective whilst still making sure that every creative gets exposure from the platform.
A: The Dala Database is not public yet, but it will soon become a platform for networking and collaboration within the creative industry. While we do vet each registration, our goal is to be as inclusive as possible, giving exposure to creatives with strong potential. We’ll be expanding the database to include new categories such as DJs and artisans, so watch the space!
Q: Why is it important for you to work with local brands?
A: Eswatini is home to many talented handcraft artists who create high-quality, unique products. Dala Spaces is committed to celebrating local handcraft and supporting the artisans behind these brands by providing them with a retail platform and merchandising support. Our aim is to assist in the development and growth of these local brands, helping them succeed in both local and international markets.
Q: What advice would you give to local brands who want to make it big here or internationally?
A: Have a clear identity for your brand. Think about what impact you want your products to have on the market / industry. Align your products, branding, and market placement with that identity. We also encourage you to find the right market for your product as Dala Spaces might not always be the right location, but understanding where your products belong is key to success.
Q: What is next for Dala Spaces, what can we expect to see or get from you in the coming months?
A: We’re working on going live with the Dala database for creatives. We would like to encourage as many local creatives to register for and join the network. We’ll also be collaborating with local brands and artists to bring exciting events and activities. Be sure to follow us on Instagram (@dala.spaces) to stay updated on all the exciting developments!