This Women’s Month, as we dive into Nicci’s 33-year journey of how a fashion brand born in the heart of Joburg has been stitching stories of strength, growth, and sisterhood, creating a corporate space where women thrive. We would like you to meet – in chronological order – the phenomenal women who have become the foundation of resilience, leadership, and unmatched imagination, all while embracing timeless fashion for the last 33 years.
At Nicci, fashion is just the surface. Behind every garment is a woman with a dream, a family to support, a vision for her life, and a community cheering her on.
From the cutting table to the boardroom, women lead with intention, resilience, and heart.
Meet Niki, Co-Founder of Nicci, 33 Years.
Niki’s journey began in 1992 with her husband and co-founder, Clive Breger. Through bold vision, careful planning, and an unwavering belief in women, Nicci has grown into a proudly women-first brand with 19 stores across South Africa and over three decades of staying true to its purpose. Her leadership goes beyond fashion. For Niki, the brand is a community where women enter the world of retail and thrive. Under Niki’s guidance, women have grown from first-time sales consultants to store managers and department heads.
Her persistence and leadership show that when women are given the space to lead with resourcefulness and courage, incredible things happen.
Her persistence and leadership show that when women are given the space to lead with resourcefulness and courage, incredible things happen.
Meet Our Nicci Icons
Karen – Head of Operations, 32 Years.
Karen joined Nicci in 1993, working in 3 of the Johannesburg stores at the time. In 1996, she was promoted and became the Sandton Store Manager. Her deep knowledge and incredible understanding of the Nicci brand has made her a true leader in the Nicci family.
Rio – Head of Production, 27 Years.
Rio helps facilitate our beloved Nicci Local Love and Cocoon collections. With over 27 years at Nicci, she works closely with local CMT factories and artisans to bring fashion to life. Her detail-oriented eye and creative flair ensure each piece is made to inspire confidence.
Pauline – Head of Warehouse, 27 Years.
Pauline started as a warehouse packer in 1997, back when Nicci had only 15 employees. Today, she leads the warehouse with power and precision, overseeing logistics. Pauline alongside the entire warehouse, is the heartbeat behind our stock flow or as we like to call it, the engine room of Nicci.
Lida – Administration 26 Years.
Lida joined Nicci in 1999 and for over two decades, she has been working behind the scenes, offering support to the team. Her incredible work has ensured that the day-to-day operation runs smoothly each time.
A Decade Has Never Looked So Good
Mbali – Lead Dispatcher 18 Years.
Mbali started as a warehouse packer in 2007 with no experience. Through dedication and continuous learning, she now leads the dispatch process, ensuring your favourite Pack of the Week arrives on time, every time.
Daisey – Head Seamstress, 14 Years.
Daisey joined Nicci in 2011 as a domestic worker. But her passion and skill for sewing soon came to light. She transitioned into becoming Nicci’s lead seamstress, managing alterations, custom fits, and so much more. Her journey is a testament to talent meeting opportunity.
Violet – Quality Control Specialist, 13 Years.
Violet has spent the last 13 years ensuring that every garment leaving our doors meets the Nicci standard. Her secret? A team that supports each other like sisters and a workplace where she feels seen, valued, and inspired every day.
Kayli, Head of Marketing, 10 Years.
Kayli’s love for the Nicci brand runs deep; her journey wasn’t just a career move, it was destiny. At just two years old, she saw roadworks underway and full of concern, asked, “How is everyone going to shop at Nicci?”
Since officially joining the team in 2015 under Niki’s leadership, one of her defining moments came during the COVID-19 pandemic with the launch of “Pack of the Week” a campaign that delivered styling tips, answered customer questions, and created connection when the world needed it most.
Conclusion
No matter how big or small your dream is, this Women’s Month, we celebrate you: The mom working her shift between school runs, juggling fashion and family. The manager breaking ceilings in reversible jeans and chunky accessories. The woman behind the sewing machine hoping for her “mama, I made it” moment.
This is your celebration. This is your moment. And we’re honoured to be part of your journey.