The spirit of innovation, creativity and possibility was on full display at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) when renowned South African fashion designer and VUT alumnus David Tlale returned to his alma mater to explore opportunities for collaboration at the intersection of fashion and technology.
During a high-level engagement with VUT leadership, including Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Khehla Ndlovu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Commercialisation and Internationalisation (RICI) Prof Simphiwe Nelana, and Executive Director of Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI) Ayanda Noma, Tlale shared his vision for a future where fashion and technology work together to create meaningful impact.
Drawing on his international experiences, particularly his visits to China, Tlale reflected on the transformative role technology is playing across industries and highlighted the opportunities for South African institutions to drive innovation through multidisciplinary collaboration.
He expressed a strong desire to contribute to programmes that combine creativity, design, entrepreneurship and advanced technologies, helping to prepare students for the demands of a rapidly changing world.
Passionate about developing future talent, Tlale emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation of innovators, designers and entrepreneurs.
He encouraged greater collaboration between industry and higher education institutions to ensure that students are equipped with the practical skills, exposure and confidence needed to succeed in competitive global markets.
Following the engagement, Tlale joined the Vice-Chancellor and accompanying delegation on a tour of the TTI precinct, where he was introduced to several of the University’s cutting-edge facilities and innovation platforms.
TTI staff showcased a range of advanced technologies, including the robotic arm and the Voxeljet system, demonstrating VUT’s growing capabilities in advanced manufacturing, product development and technology-driven innovation.
The visit highlighted the university’s commitment to developing solutions that address industry needs while creating opportunities for research, commercialisation and entrepreneurship.
The tour concluded at the Centre of Footwear Entrepreneurship, where Tlale engaged with trainees currently developing specialised skills in footwear production, leather cutting and product development.
During an inspiring interaction, he shared insights from his own journey, reflecting on the determination, hard work and resilience required to build a successful career in the fashion industry.
Drawing from his experiences as a designer who has showcased his work on some of the world’s most prestigious platforms, Tlale encouraged students to believe in their abilities, embrace innovation and pursue excellence in everything they do.
The visit was more than a homecoming. It was a meaningful exchange of ideas centred on innovation, entrepreneurship and the future of creative industries in South Africa.
It also reinforced the value of collaboration between academia and industry in unlocking opportunities for young people and strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem.
