For aspiring young designer Botle Maseli, the Recycling Fashion Show at Fourways Crossing was more than just a runway moment; it was an opportunity to turn inspiration into something uniquely her own.

Maseli shared that her outfit was inspired by a design she saw online, reimagined with her personal flair. “I saw something similar on TikTok and thought it looked beautiful, but I wanted to recreate it in my own way. I used newspapers to form circles and triangles because I wanted it to feel bouncy and a bit goofy.”

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For her, the recycled fashion theme opened the door to creativity and future ambition. “I want to be a designer one day, so this allows me to show my own designs. I get to walk in something I created myself, and that’s really exciting.”

Her sentiment was echoed by fellow model and designer Ester Otega, who highlighted the deeper meaning behind her creation.

“This means that I get to turn trash into treasure. Using recycled materials allows me to show my love for the environment by protecting it and reusing things, instead of just throwing them away. It’s beautiful and meaningful because I get to take what someone would consider trash and make it something special.”

The event, hosted by Ace Models Johannesburg North, saw young models design and create their own garments using recyclable materials, transforming everyday waste into eye-catching runway pieces.

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Director Cathy Heaton said the initiative is about more than fashion. “We teach modelling, styling, and grooming, but most importantly, we teach confidence. We want young people to believe in themselves and dare to step out and become their best selves.”

The show also forms part of a year-long programme, in which participants will be judged, and top performers recognised at the academy’s year-end event.

Beyond the runway, the recycling theme carried an important message about sustainability. Heaton encouraged a shift away from fast fashion, promoting the idea of reusing and repurposing clothing instead.

Beverly Sefuralo, Fourways Crossing marketing manager, added that hosting events like the Recycling Fashion Show is part of the centre’s commitment to community engagement and youth development.

“It’s incredible to see young people express themselves in such creative ways, while also promoting an important message about sustainability. Fourways Crossing is proud to provide a platform for initiatives that inspire confidence, creativity, and environmental awareness.”

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