Durban — Nine young fashion designers were handed a shared prize of R250 000 as part of the Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) Rising Stars initiative, in an effort to kick-start their careers.

Led by the eThekwini Municipality together with the Hollywoodbets Foundation’s Enterprise and Supplier Development Department, the handover took place at Saddlers Arms, Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, in Durban on Monday.

Economic Development and Planning Committee deputy chairperson, Philisiwe Ndlovu, spoke of celebrating the transformation of fashion.

“I am excited that we are all gathered here to celebrate the transformation of the local fashion industry in Durban, which has become known as one of the hottest fashion districts in South Africa.

“The designers participated in the Hollywoodbets Durban July last month and got to showcase their creations to thousands of visitors.”

Ndlovu said she was highly impressed with the quality of collections showcased by the designers during the Durban July. This was a clear indication that the City was a step closer to the vision of becoming Africa’s fashion capital, she said.

The prize money, which is the result of a public-private partnership between eThekwini Municipality and the Hollywoodbets Foundation, is welcome and will go a long way in helping these emerging fashion entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, increase productivity, as well as ensure and maintain sustainability, Ndlovu said.

“This year the programme marks 13 years of providing skills development and access to market opportunities to local fashion designers.

“As the leadership of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, we are proud of the progress thus far, and will continue to empower and unleash new talent to the market to stimulate self-employment and job creation,” she said.

Ndlovu added that they can’t wait for the 13th DFF showcase themed, “Coming Of Age”, as these designer mentees will be showcasing their collections for the first time to potential buyers and launching their careers.

The 13th DFF Showcase is taking place from September 18 to 20 at the Station Urban Event Space.

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