Kapula began as a hobby in Ilse Appelgryn’s kitchen in 1993 and quickly took on a life of its own, becoming a fully-fledged family business in 1994. Today, Kapula boasts a staff compliment of 160 people and continues to grow from strength to strength.

Kapula's unique candles and ceramics are all handmade in Bredasdorp, a small town situated in the heart of South Africa's beautiful Overberg region. 

A Kapula design is unmistakable - it's colorful, brave, and reflective of Africa's vibrant spirit. The design team comprises of Ilse, her daughter and the hand-painters themselves. This inclusive, collaborative approach ensures variety in line with current trends as well as a sense of ownership for all team members. 

In a small farming community where it is not easy to find a job, they remain fiercely loyal to their handmade processes in order to ensure sustainable employment for as many people as possible.

More than 90% of their employees are women, half of which have been part of their team for more than 10 years