Ikageng fashion designer Madimo Dorah Norman-Gaeratane, known for Susky Designs and Projects, recently achieved a fantastic second place at the North West Batswana Fashion Extravaganza in October 2026.

The achievement is another milestone for Norman-Gaeratane, the founder of Susky Designs and Projects, who has been combining African heritage with contemporary fashion since establishing her business in 2012.

Norman-Gaeratane’s presentation at the competition featured a showstopper design and streetwear thar drew inspiration from a traditional Batswana dance. This design was one alongside six other collection pieces that the judges assessed.

Born and raised in Ikageng, Norman-Gaeratane says her passion for fashion and creativity started at home.Her designs include bespoke garments, traditional wear, bridal and matric dance outfits, crafts and African-inspired creations.

“My passion is to combine African heritage with contemporary fashion, creating designs that celebrate our culture while embracing modern trends,” she said.

Over the years, she has also expanded her work into event coordination, décor and catering, as well as contributing to community initiatives that promote local talent. Her career highlights include exhibiting at Decorex Johannesburg in 2025 and 2026, showcasing her work at Aardklop this year and being selected to participate in the Torino Fashion Week.

She has also received recognition at several fashion competitions, including winning Best Showstopper at the Rhumba in the Jungle Fashion Show and achieving first place at the Cultural Calabash Fashion Show in Taung. Beyond her work as a designer, Norman-Gaeratane serves as the North West Provincial Cluster 14 Representative for Fashion, Textile, Jewellery and Product Design under the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) initiative.

In this role, she forms part of a collective of 17 clusters involved in engagements with the department and other stakeholders to address the needs of creative practitioners and explore opportunities for growth in the province’s creative industries. Her vision is to continue growing Susky Designs and Projects, promoting African-inspired fashion and contributing to opportunities for local creatives.

“I believe fashion is more than clothing; it is a way to tell our stories, preserve our heritage and create opportunities for future generations.

She has also announced that she will be unveiling her latest streetwear collection, at the upcoming Fola Mosadi Lifestyle event on November 28 at The View Palace in Potchefstroom.

“I invite everyone who would like to experience my latest designs and see how I bring African heritage into contemporary streetwear to join us for this special occasion. Fola Mosadi Lifestyle is not only a celebration of women, but also an opportunity to showcase creativity, culture and fashion.”