Designers prepare for the 14th annual Durban Fashion Fair
18 Durban Fashion Fair mentees are preparing to showcase their collections at the 14th annual Durban Fashion Fair.
Image: Supplied
Young designers and established labels are preparing for the 14th annual Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) which will take place next month.
The fair will take place under the theme ‘The Awakening’ from September 17 to 19 at the Durban Exhibition Centre and will feature over 60 designers from across Africa including mentees who were part of the DFF mentorship programme.
The programme falls under the holistic Fashion Development Programme, a flagship initiative by eThekwini Municipality that has, since its launch 13 years ago, trained over 350 emerging designers.
The municipality said in a statement that many of the designers have gone on to launch successful labels and boutiques, exhibit internationally, and create jobs in the local fashion economy.
“This year, 18 DFF mentees are preparing to showcase their collections and launch their labels in front of attending buyers. These young designers were selected from dozens of applicants based on creativity, technical ability, and business potential.”
The mentorship includes training in garment construction, textile knowledge, sustainable fashion, marketing, social media, and brand development, the municipality said.
S’busisiwe Dube from uMlazi, founder of Dube Atelier, shared: “I saw the advertisement for applications on social media and took a chance. Now I am part of a life-changing programme and cannot wait to show the world my work. I have grown creatively and learned how to align my passion with a sustainable fashion business.”
Karl Flynn from Glenwood added: “I have gained not just skills but business insights. I am looking forward to launching my own label and creating jobs in my community.”
Fezile Mdletshe, founder of Fezile Fashion Skills Academy, which facilitates the mentorship on behalf of eThekwini Municipality, said the mentorship programme goes far beyond teaching sewing or sketching.
“It builds confidence, business skills and market readiness. Watching this group evolve into confident, capable designers has been truly rewarding. We are ready to launch fashion entrepreneurs who are prepared to make their mark on South Africa’s fashion industry and the world.”
Mdletshe said many former DFF mentees have become local fashion leaders thriving in the industry. This includes the likes of Kwenzi Nkomo of Indoni Fashion House, Zama Gumede - Zaviar Fashion House, Victor Fashion Kingdom founded by Wilson Mukeya, and Sizwe Mncube of Libo Creations.
Councillor Thembo Ntuli, chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, praised the impact of the programme.
“We are proud to support initiatives that turn raw talent into real businesses. These young creatives represent Durban’s future economy. Fashion is not just art; it is a job creator and economic driver,” he said.