The Creatives Shall Govern Collective in Standerton spent two days with the African Fashion Research Institute (AFRI) at Khula Sakhile Secondary School, learning from the New Patterns Workbook.

According to Nontokozo Tshabalala, this workshop was designed to encourage creatives to think differently about fashion. The event took place on 15 and 16 November. The programme is led by AFRI founders, Dr Erica de Greef and Lesiba Mabitsela.

Tshabalala, the founder of Creatives Shall Govern, welcomed the team to Standerton. The workshop attracted a variety of creative personalities, including fashion designers, creative entrepreneurs, graphic designers, stylists, and artists.

The groups were guided by Lomeo September, Khensani Mohlatlole, and Lethabo Xulu, who helped participants navigate the thought-provoking activities in the New Patterns Workbook.

On the first day, participants worked in groups to discuss how fashion can rewrite history and build cultural sustainability.

“Participants worked through the New Patterns Workbook, exploring fashion magazine archives, photographs, fashion materials, and Black fashion histories,” explained Tshabalala.

Groups engaged in activities such as making collages, analysing visuals, and connecting personal stories, prompting them to consider how fashion can evolve while honouring African culture and heritage.

On the second day, participants presented their work, showcasing collages on Standerton’s fashionable past and the future of fashion. One group presented the concept of ‘The Future Park of Standerton’.

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“This park aims to bring the community together, and having a statue serves as a reminder of where we come from, the love we carry, kindness, and unity,” stated Snethemba Ndlovu, one of the group’s participants.

Bongani Tau, founder of Abegoni, shared her presentation on designs from township perspectives and how colonial hierarchies influence fashion, often marginalising people living in townships.

Following the workshop, participants were honoured with the opportunity to visit Standerton Mills, one of the town’s most historic industrial sites.

According to Tshabalala, the group observed how textiles are produced on an industrial scale. Staff at Standerton Mills guided the participants through the entire process, from weaving and treating fabric to its final delivery to consumers. The participants ended the experience with a renewed sense of unity.