WATCH: Local teen is part of SA’s style squad

Pheladi Phasha (15) made her dream of becoming a designer a reality when she entered the Style Squad competition on Mzansi Magic on April 1, 2019.

Phasha was one of the 10 contestants (semi-finalists) chosen to be part of a platform for young South African creatives to showcase their design talents and battle it out on a reality TV show.

Growing up in Olifantsfontein, her dream was always to become a professional fashion designer.

“I realised my passion for designing when I was about nine years old, when my aunt asked me to design a wedding dress for her which she still has not used because she is still not married.

“Even though it was a joke, my love for designing really grew from there and I am glad she hasn’t used that design. By the time she needs one, I would have gained so much experience from the competition.

“Growing up, my mother was always busy with fabrics, trying different designs. In a way, that also influenced my passion for designing. I heard when she was growing up she was wearing her own mother’s designs,” said Phasha.

The 15-year-old described the competition as one of a kind.

“When I found out I was chosen to compete in Style Squad, I was extremely surprised. I really did not think I stood a chance. I did not expect to make it as far as I did. It was surreal.

“The overall experience was very different from anything I have ever done before. I am generally a shy person so the thought of being on TV was quite scary.

“During the first few episodes, I was super nervous and it showed but as the show progressed, I became more confident and comfortable with the cameras being around me. Seeing my designs transforming from a mere thought to a real piece of clothing was amazing.

“I’ve made very good friends at the competition, particularly Esethu, who I plan on visiting. She made it her mission to get me talking more and I thank her for that.

“She would say, ‘I am going to get you out of that shell of yours and break it so you never go back in there’. I think that was very sweet of her thinking about it now,” said Phasha.

She said her parents now wanted her to focus on school.

“The knowledge I acquired from the competition is a lot. For now, I’m just sketching designs and getting someone to create them for me, which will not distract my schooling and will, of course, fulfill my passion.”

The Curro Serengeti learner advised young aspiring fashion designers to never fear.

“They must just go for it. In fashion or creativity there is no right or wrong. If anything, it is an opportunity to express yourself and how you see things. Follow your heart. If there is money to be made out of it, it is all good,” said Phasha.