Masterclass explores diversity through African fashion
By: Tshepiso Kaibe and Tayron Mhlongo – 26 April 2024
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) opened its runways for the annual Fashion Without Borders Masterclass on 25 April 2024. As part of the initiative’s tenth anniversary of empowering African fashion, it was only befitting to take it back to its roots – within the confinements of VUT where it started. This vibrant event gathered various students and fashion enthusiast draped in fine threads to celebrate African fashion under the banner of “Diversity through African Fashion”.
Organized in conjunction with the Alumni Relations Department of VUT, this inspiring event aimed to promote culture, creativity and inclusivity while emphasizing the power of fashion to unite and foster mutual understanding.
The masterclass brought together a diverse group of guest speakers including VUT alumni and co-founder of Fashion without Borders, Mr. Sege Kabisoso, esteemed fashion designer Mr. Themba Tshabalala, Mr. Mpumelelo Mkhize, a Solution Developer Technology and Innovation Advocate and many other notable figures. Their shared experiences and insights provided attendees with a deep appreciation for the role fashion can play in promoting social and economic development.
Fashion Without Borders strives to accomplish three goals respectively. Namely, Fashion as a tradition, which focuses on providing access to industry knowledge, education and skills such as leadership for women and youth. Fashion as a heritage, which emphasizes the importance of exporting Africa’s rich and diverse culture and artistry and lastly Fashion as a culture which aims to create high quality jobs for young and upcoming fashion professionals by supporting businesses within the creative ecosystem.
Some of the key topics discussed at the event included industry awareness, financial management, networking and collaboration, trend prediction and many more.
Among one of the presentations, Ms. Sainile Zitha, VUT alumni and founder of fashion line Nkwinikwa Pty Ltd, captivated the audience with her inspiring journey. Initially, Zitha embarked on a path as a beauty pageant queen but one day quickly found herself unable to afford a dress for one of her competitions. Determined and resourceful, she decided to sew her own garment which garnered unexpected praises and ignited her passion for fashion. This fueled her to invest in a sewing machine, enroll at VUT to study fashion and ultimately establish her own business in 2016.
Reflecting on her early days, Zitha recalls having to walk on foot daily from Vereeniging to VUT, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her dreams. Today she stands as a beacon of success, managing a thriving business boutique where she not only showcases her fashion designs but also mentors the next generation of designers and models.
The Fashion Without Borders event unfolded later in the evening in the elegant setting of the Desmond Tutu Great Hall foyer, where a diverse array of young local fashion designers showcased their extraordinary and distinctive clothing creations themed: “A Decade of Diversity – Celebrating African Fashion Excellence”. Students were captivated as they were guided through the complex world of fashion, experiencing a blend of creativity and style.
Attendees were treated to a visual feast of unique and inspiring clothing designs, each telling a story of its own. Ms. Lucia Jakeni’s enchanting vocal performance added an extra layer of charm to the event, creating a harmonious blend of fashion and music that left a lasting impression on all those present.
The fusion of artistry and talent made this Fashion Without Borders event a truly unforgettable experience for everyone involved.