TWO local fashion designers will participate in the 2024 MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, taking place from November 6 to 9 in Windhoek, Namibia, following their much-needed back-up from the City of eThekwini.

“eThekwini Municipality continues to support local fashion designers by providing them with access to markets to ensure their business sustainability. This year, the municipality has funded Sandile ‘Duke’ Mngadi, the creative director and owner of DUKE ‘Clothe Your Soul’, and Sicelo Dlezi, the founder of YATSAR Clothing – they are the designers representing Durban. They will showcase their work on this international platform tomorrow on November 7,” said the City’s spokesperson, Gugu Sisilana.

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Mngadi expressed his excitement about the opportunity. “I’m honoured to represent Durban and the municipality’s Fashion Development Programme at the 2024 MTC Windhoek Fashion Week. This is a chance to further position my brand and promote Durban’s growing fashion industry. It is also inspiring for young, emerging designers from disadvantaged communities to see that anything is possible. We are deeply grateful to the municipality for these opportunities,” he said.

Dlezi also shared her enthusiasm for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “I look forward to showcasing my designs, networking with buyers, retailers and media from Namibia, and exploring new international markets for my brand. I’m incredibly thankful to the municipality for recognising my work and continuously providing growth opportunities.”

Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli emphasised the significance of this partnership. “This collaboration offers Durban designers a chance to connect with new markets, expand their networks and boost the City’s global fashion footprint.”

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Councillor Ntuli concluded, “As the eThekwini Municipality, we are committed to providing designers with platforms to showcase their talent and connect with international markets. We’re excited for Mngadi and Dlezi to represent Durban’s creative spirit on this prestigious stage and wish them all the best.”

The MTC Windhoek Fashion Week is part of a strategic partnership between the eThekwini Municipality and the event organisers to elevate Durban’s fashion industry and establish the City as a prominent fashion hub in Africa.

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