The dinning elegance is on display to mark Freckle Eyewear’s decade-long of trading and innovation. Photo: Supplied

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Freckle Eyewear recently marked a decade of trading, surviving, and thriving as a Black woman-owned business in South Africa.

Rooted in the spirit of African excellence and luxury experiences, the company has not only offered the finest designer sunglasses styles but has also actively opened doors for young people, creating employment opportunities and pathways for growth.

Founded by Lihle Lamola, it was born from a vision that economic participation is vital to Africa’s story — and from a passion for unique designer sunglasses straight off the international runway. Today, Freckle Eyewear continues to blend global designer brands like Tom Ford, Loewe, Cartier with local opportunity, demonstrating that luxury can stand tall anywhere in the world.

The founding mother of Freckle Eyewear Lihle Lamola graces the festivities to mark the decade-long existence of her company. Photo: Supplied

Over the past decade, the business has steadily expanded, with growth supported partly by strategic partnerships with other local high-end boutiques and the utilisation of content creators and influencers. By building a trusted name while mentoring and employing young people meaningfully, from staff members to agency partners who are youth-owned businesses.

When the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted industries across the continent, Freckle Eyewear leaned into innovation and community support by ensuring their clients still received service through sourcing unique, exclusive pieces, prioritising staff well-being, and continuing to serve customers amid uncertainty — reflecting the resilience typical of Africa’s entrepreneurs.

“As a Black woman in business, I carry the hopes of generations who have fought for access and dignity,” Lamola said. “Reaching this 10-year milestone is not just a personal celebration but a collective victory that demonstrates what is possible when we build, together,” she added.

Creating opportunities for the next generation Over the past decade, the company has created employment for over 50 young people, equipping them with skills, mentorship, and professional exposure within the high-end retail sector. Lamola is a visionary and strategic leader with over 20 years of experience in business development and more than a decade in executive leadership roles, mainly within the retail sector.

A talented entrepreneur and accomplished businesswoman, she is the founding managing director of Freckle Eyewear and has business interest in logistics and manufacturing industries. “For us, it was never just about selling sunglasses, we are in the business of selling luxury experiences,” Lamola said.

Stepping into the next chapter as the company enters its next decade, Lamola said it remains committed to expanding its impact across the continent. “Plans are in motion for domestic store expansion and new brand collaborations introducing dedicated Freckle Eyewear homes to showcase our latest collections while deepening partnerships that support sustainable growth and shared prosperity in Africa’s luxury retail space,” Lamola
concluded.