Chatsworth designer to headline pageant
AS A child, Amanda Govender, left, of Bayview, Chatsworth designed, cut and stitched little dresses for her dolls and friends.
Taught to sew by her grandmother, she became intent on creating something special from ordinary material.
She’s now a fashion designer with invaluable industry experience behind her. The Amanda May label has won fans in great centres around the world.
This year, she has compiled a collection for the African sequence of the Miss India South Africa International Pageant due to be held at Sibaya on May 6.
“There is a great feel for vibrant African-inspired shapes and bold African prints – the bright colours, the intricate artwork, the flamboyant styles and the simple cuts.
“All work together harmoniously for a modern take on African heritage.”
The fashion industry had her heart even in a time when pursuing a career in it seemed foolish and impractical.”
When I matriculated I went on to Natal Technikon in 1998 to explore the mysteries of design.
“I was terrified entering the portals of learning to acquire knowledge in a field I was so passionate about. Fortunately, I had the support of my family,” said Govender.
She breezed through the first year of study, but had no cash to do the next. “I was awarded a bursary and a loan from Natal Technikon to assist with the years to come. After graduating, I was offered my first job as a junior ladieswear designer.
“It meant moving to Joburg in 2001. I spent wonderful years plying the trade I love so much. I then married my school sweetheart, Nicolan Govender, who partnered with me in life’s journey.
“And I took on another great opportunity in fashion buying,” said Govender.
“After 10 years of fashion industry experience, extensive travel and going from one great job portfolio to the next we knew it was time to step up with faith and launched Amanda May in 2011, a designer range of clothing for women.
“The ready-to-wear collections have a classic signature, inspired by living an everyday lifestyle. The confident-feminine shapes remain key in my ranges, stirred with modern influences and my personal quirky flair. I design for confident women.
“Since the launch we have had amazing platforms where we have showcased and exhibited at shows in London, Berlin, Las Vegas and African capitals. I hope to become a great fashion designer one day and an even greater woman doing it,” says Govender.
Now 20 finalists in the pageant will wear her creations in front of 850 people and ZEETV cameras will show her version of what modern African fashion is all about.