Advancing interests of young designers

THE second annual Khayelitsha Fashion Week highlighted violence and discrimination against people with albinism in communities.

On Saturday, the Isivivana Centre was packed with about 180 audiences and 30 models representing all body types.

About 10 home-grown designers showcased their creative winter collections on the catwalk. The stage was also open for local poets and musicians, who passed on messages to stop abusing people living with albinism.

The growing event is the brainchild of Bongani Matentjwa – a community activist and a radio personality from Radio Zibonele – with an aim to expose, uplift and develop young artists.

“The support we have been getting is overwhelming. More people are attending as they understand what we are trying to achieve. Khayelitsha is one of the biggest townships, with many social issues.

“This is one of the projects that speak to the youth. We are also boosting their confidence by exposing them to a large audience. I noticed how young designers struggled to promote themselves on social media,” said Matentjwa.

He said designers couldn’t afford design schools and he didn’t want them to quit.

“We are planning many projects such as Gugulethu Food Festival. When I started the project I saw a need – we cannot wait on government to do everything to turn around our communities,” said Matentjwa.

The next show will be in September with Spring and Summer Collections.

Khayelitsha Development Forum (KDF) chairperson Ndithini Tyhido congratulated the organisers for another successful event.

“Anything aiming at uplifting our community and taking children of the streets will forever be supported by KFDF. The event can be a benchmark for other projects,” said Tyhido.