Top 10 for metaverse design at Durban July

Esayidi Fashion School student designer, Minenhle Luvuno from KwaMadlala placed in the top 10 of the renowned fashion design competition, the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Fashion Designers competition.
Luvono’s stunning metaverse design modelled by Ravonne Haai saw them placed fifth overall.
She said she was excited because she learnt a lot from the experience. “I spent time with my peers who share the same interests and passion for designing. It felt amazing and it was life changing,” she added.
Fashion has always been a part of her life. “I started drawing designs in primary school and in Grade 9 was inspired to design my farewell dress. Unfortunately at that time I was not yet fully exposed to fashion as I am right now.”
This year’s theme was ‘Out of this World’ and Luvuno said for her what was out of this world was the metaverse.
“The metaverse was introduced to me and my fellow students by Zamabhele Ntshangase, founder of Esayidi Fashion School and her sister, Makhosazana Ntshangase of Sistas Felas. We unlocked the theme and conceptualised ideas and after my research I became more interested in the digital world.

“I didn’t know that a whole universe was being built for us digitally and we are able to create our own avatars and live any life we want. It was interesting and I decided to dive deep into this concept, “she explained.
“Ravonne did my garment justice, she took it to another dimension. I kept bragging when people complimented her. I was like ‘yeah, she’s a professional’.”
She added she gets a lot of motivation and inspiration from her lecturers every day.
“They strive to make sure that we are exposed to opportunities and people who can contribute to our careers. They encourage us to start our own companies and create job opportunities, “Luvuno added.
For making it to the top 10, Luvuno won R2000 and amazing gifts.
“With my prize I will register my own company. I am looking forward to entering next year and I am not afraid of putting in the extra hours and hard work. I will think out of the box,” Luvuno concluded.
She encourages aspirant young designers to be authentic. “Judges love authenticity, don’t do what everyone else is doing. Look from within, do what your heart tells you to do and don’t be scared of criticism. It will help you grow and learn.”

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