At 31, Themba Wyne Gumbi is more than just an entrepreneur he’s a creative force reshaping the way accessories and personal branding intersect. Born and raised in eSikhawini H2, Themba’s journey from the classrooms of Mzikayifani Primary and Skhula Ngemfundo Secondary to building a respected accessories brand is a story of vision, hustle, and faith in purpose.
His love for fashion began early. In the mid-2010s, he was already setting trends by selling Happy Socks and knitted ties items that were the wave at the time. Working closely with tailor Thabani Mabika, Themba immersed himself in fashion merchandising and soon joined the team behind the iconic local brand Petrol or Milk, led by Siyabonga Khambule, where he sharpened his business instincts.
But it was in 2015 that a deeper creative calling took shape. Themba began crafting bracelets using natural stones a quiet start that would evolve into Wyne Accessories by 2019. That same year, his brand caught a major break when he was interviewed live on Gagasi FM by Nolwazi Magwaza and DJ Vumar. Not only did Themba and his late partner Skhulile Manzini make card holders and wallets live on air, but they also left behind souvenirs for the radio team an act of gratitude that sparked a turning point in his career. “After that interview, my life changed forever,” he reflects. “Sales went through the roof, and doors just started opening.”
Exhibitions became a central pillar of his brand growth. From the Durban Business Fair to East Coast Radio’s House and Garden Show (sponsored by EDTEA), and SARCDA in Midrand (via SEDA), Themba gained exposure, confidence, and crucial business lessons especially the value of affordable, high-demand items. “Exhibitions are gold,” he says. “They give your brand visibility and connect you to real networks.”
Celebrity collaborations also played a huge role. Local influencer and event host Dogg DBN once showcased Wyne Accessories online, resulting in a major sales spike. But it was author Banele Rewa who unintentionally broke the internet for Themba after purchasing a book from Rewa, Themba received a shoutout post in return. That single act of appreciation led to over R11,000 in sales. “That’s the power of social media used right,” Themba says.
International actor Mthandeni Mbambo, known for his role in Durban Gen, is another client who proudly owns a custom Wyne clutch bag and card holder. Through these moments, Themba has positioned himself not just as a creator of handcrafted accessories, but as a brand influencer whose digital footprint is opening doors for other campaigns and collaborations.
Today, Wyne Accessories is not just about the products it’s about passion, presence, and purpose. Themba Gumbi is proof that you don’t need a big city address to build a bold brand. With creativity in his hands and strategy in his steps, the boy from eSikhawini continues to leave his mark on the fashion and entrepreneurship landscape one accessory at a time.
