Teko Modise has moved from professional football into fashion, where he has become a visible figure through his work with African Fashion International and luxury label Nala Privé.
Image: African Fashion International
Teko Modise has built a second career in fashion, moving from professional football into the industry as an ambassador for African Fashion International (AFI).
Known as “The General" during his playing days, he is now a regular presence on runways and represents the luxury label Nala Privé.
The House of Nala pop-up store is currently open at Oceans Mall, where it forms part of the build-up to the Metro FM Music Awards 2026. The space also connects fashion with music through its role as an official partner of the awards.
On Friday, April 24, AFI hosted a runway presentation at the mall, where the Nala Privé Autumn/Winter 2026 collection was unveiled.
The show featured a mix of established and emerging models, including young talent from Durban, reflecting a wider effort to grow the local fashion community.
“Independent Media Lifestyle” caught up with Modise at the event, where he spoke about the importance of the brand’s expansion into Durban and its implications for the industry.
“The new store that has opened in Durban, I think it is about time that House of Nala can really expand. The fact that they are here is a good sign that she really wants to expand and grow her interest in fashion.
It really gives so many people opportunities to be part of, especially in the fashion line. So I am glad that it is here,” he said.
Modise pointed to the presence of designers and industry figures as a sign of commitment to growth. He noted that the involvement of local models, including younger participants, showed how the platform could open doors for new voices in fashion.
For him, the event was not only about showcasing clothing but also about building pathways into the industry.
Beyond his ambassador role, Modise also reflected on his personal relationship with style. He said that he does not follow a fixed approach to fashion and instead focuses on comfort and self-expression.
“I do not think I have a specific style. For me, it is more about comfort. As long as I feel good in whatever I am wearing. It is about owning the style that I want and showcasing my personality,” he said.
He explained that fashion has become a way for him to communicate without speaking much. Over time, clothing has taken on a deeper meaning shaped by his upbringing and career.
Modise shared that growing up without access to clothing influenced how he now views fashion and presentation.
He said that as a young boy, seeing well dressed people represented a form of success. That idea stayed with him as he entered professional football and later transitioned into public life beyond sport.
Fashion, he said, became part of both his passion and his identity.
Now active in the fashion space, Modise continues to explore new looks while staying grounded in what feels natural to him. He also hinted at what audiences can expect from him at the awards ceremony, where he is set to appear on the black carpet and present an award.
He said that his outfit would be more reserved this time but still true to his personality.
He added that he looks forward to seeing what others will wear and drawing inspiration from different styles as he continues to refine his own.
Through his involvement with AFI and Nala Privé, Modise’s journey reflects a shift from sport into fashion, where he now uses style as a form of expression and a way to support the growth of the industry.