PINETOWN fashion designer Sphumelele Shange is making a name for herself in South Africa’s fashion industry after being part of the Durban Fashion Fair Mentorship Programme, an experience she describes as both educational and life-changing.

Inspired by her late grandmother, who worked as a sewist, and her upbringing in a rural environment, Shange said her passion for fashion began at a young age.

“Growing up, I was always a child who used to draw and randomly make clothing for my dolls,” she said.

Using her work, she focuses on expressing emotion through garments. “I want to be remembered as a fashion designer who is able to show emotions through their garment.”

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Through the mentorship programme, the 23-year-old said she gained critical skills that have helped shape her career.

“I learned to work under pressure and developed business skills on how to run a business. I also mastered pattern making; in a short space of time I learned teamwork and unity instead of competing. Our mentors played a huge role in that.”

The programme also gave her the opportunity to showcase her work on a larger platform for the first time. “Being part of the programme was a dream come true for me, as it was my first time showcasing on such a big stage,” she said.

Shange is now preparing to showcase her work at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, where this year’s theme is “Ibomvu: The Pulse of Legacy”.

“My concept was inspired by ibomvu, the red ochre clay used traditionally for skincare and to connect with ancestors,” she explained. “I want to represent the lives of our forefathers, our identity as Africans, and our emotions, combining that with modern design.”

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Audiences can expect bold creativity in her collection. “There will be a lot of fabric manipulation, tie-dye and a strong use of red,” she said.

As an upcoming designer, Shange said she didn’t have an industrial machine. Being a part of the DFF mentorship Programe, she ended up winning R5000 and bought her first industrial machine.

“Now I can sew any type of fabric without worry. I’ve also learned to believe in my craft. I used to be very shy, but now I confidently share my work on social media,” she said.

Long-term goal

She added that she hopes to gain further exposure and funding to grow her brand. “I want to work away from home, rent a space, get more machinery and showcase on bigger stages outside KwaZulu-Natal,” she said.

Shange is also passionate about empowering others through fashion. “My long-term goal is to open my own fashion studio and start a fashion school where I can teach sewing and pattern construction,” she said.

She credited the City’s support for helping young entrepreneurs take their first steps. “The municipality’s impact is huge. They offer opportunities and funding to help us open small businesses,” she said.

After the Durban July, Shange will showcase as a designer at the Durban Fashion Fair this year.

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Shange said the message she wants to convey through her work is, “There is class in our heritage as Africans. No matter who you are or where you are, don’t forget your culture.”

The young designer encouraged aspiring designers and said they need to put themselves out there.

“You never know when your big break will come. It’s not easy, but don’t give up.”

One of her proudest moments so far has been placing third as a rising star at the Durban Fashion Fair. “I will never forget that moment. It changed how I see myself and boosted my confidence as a designer,” she said.

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