Alumnus, Lunga Ntuli, is a multifaceted DUT alumnus whose creative genius spans pages and timepieces. As the author of Single Not By Choice, a poignant exploration of love, relationships, and self-discovery, Ntuli has won over readers with his profound insights. But that’s not all – this talented individual is also a skilled watchmaker, seamlessly blending artistry and precision.
Hailing from KwaDukuza on KwaZulu-Natal’s scenic North Coast, the 37-year-old, embarked on his academic path at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) in 2007. There, he excelled in the Sport Management Diploma program, graduating in 2009 with a special departmental award for outstanding achievement. Ntuli further expanded his expertise by pursuing a qualification in Sport Psychology from the University of South Africa.
Ntuli’s passion for sports led him to establish Alebag Sports and Skills Development, a company where he serves as administrator, sports mental coach, and oversees marketing and public relations.
A seasoned athlete himself, Ntuli has represented the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) development cricket team. Additionally, he has shared his expertise as a coach for the Nkobongo Women’s Club, demonstrating his commitment to empowering the next generation of athletes.
“Lunga Ntuli’s affinity for storytelling was honed through his contributions to various esteemed publications, including Kwana in the City, where he penned a regular column, Isolezwe, North Coast Courier, Sunday Times (isiZulu edition), Goal, and Backpage Media. This diverse portfolio of writing experiences not only sharpened his craft but also ignited a profound passion for storytelling, laying the groundwork for his future literary pursuits.
“I have published eight books, namely: Love vs Sport, Izimpande Zempumelelo, Why Men Cheat and Women Do It Better, Single Not by Choice, The Relationship Virus, This Thing Called Love, The Will to Love, and Married by Default,” explained Ntuli.
In 2015, Ntuli, founder and director of LN Watch, began creating unique timepieces. Incorporating local ethnic beads, each carefully selected and intricately beaded by hand, Ntuli infused every watch with a profound narrative. His innovative vision was to create wearable art that transcends timekeeping, where each bead, when meticulously combined, would convey a special meaning and message to the recipient.
Ntuli’s watch designs draw inspiration from a timeless Zulu tradition. The ucu is a bracelet traditionally bestowed by a woman to a man as a symbol of her enduring love. In response, the man offers the umqhele, which signifies his loyalty to her. This ancient cultural exchange, steeped in romance and fidelity, informs Ntuli’s craftsmanship. Each LN Watch becomes a wearable testament to love and commitment.
The year, 2019 marked a pivotal year for Ntuli’s rising career, as he received a coveted invitation to showcase his designs at Africa Fashion Week London, a significant milestone for his career. This prestigious platform catapulted his brand onto the global stage. That same year, Ntuli expanded his business across continents, connecting with fashion connoisseurs who crave authentic African expression. His designs have resonated with a broader global audience, allowing him to share the rich heritage and artistry of his homeland with lovers of fashion worldwide.
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Ntuli offers sage advice: “People who want to start a business must start where they are, with what they have. Do not sell yourself short,” he concluded.
Pictured: Lunga Ntuli
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
