ON THE PULSE

Noni Gasa is revelling in her new challenge, writes

IT HAS been six years since we last saw media personality Noni Gasa on our screens. Known as one of South Africa’s first “it” girls, the star, who first made a name for herself as a magazine journalist, model, television presenter and stylist, will be returning to the spotlight as a Project Runway South Africa resident judge.

Born in eMpangeni in KwaZulu-Natal, the former Durban Girls College learner says she is excited to be a part of the show.

“The show’s producers approached me two months ago and there was instant chemistry. It wasn’t a hard sell. I had to say yes to the opportunity to be a part of something with the potential to affect young people’s lives. These 12 aspiring designers come from dynamic backgrounds, yet have a common goal: to be the next big name in fashion,” she said.

Gasa’s last television gig was as presenter of The M-Net Movies Show back in 2012 and although she has kept a low profile, she has been very busy.

“It has been six years, and so much has happened since then. I completed a double master’s in 2013 and 2014, then moved to Cape Town to take up a post as public relations manager for Woolworths. I’m currently a consultant to a global fashion retailer, and to two leading ad agencies. Most people don’t realise that I have a corporate background,” she said.

Over the years she has established herself as an authority in the luxury fashion space, having obtained a master’s in luxury business and an MBA in luxury brand management. She describes her own style as minimalist, maximalist and understated, yet bold.

With her background in fashion, Gasa said she will be looking at the designs through a commercial lens.

“This show is both a test of talent and business savvy. Originality, wearability, commercial appeal and uncompromising quality. Technical skill is important, of course, and so is a sense of identity. The most successful brands have crafted a signature aesthetic that’s instantly recognisable, and this goes a long way in boosting customer loyalty,” she said.

The beauty said viewers will enjoy the familiarity of Project Runway.

“This is a global franchise with a set format and a winning formula. The local cast – presenter, judges, contestants – all bring a localised flavour to each version, and that is the reason why they all feel familiar, but different.”

On her love for the South African fashion industry, she said: “By virtue of our rich cultural heritage we can draw from both local and international influences to create something uniquely our own. There is no such thing as South African fashion; I think it’s limiting to define us by our context, rather than content. Young emerging designers understand this and are visibly more inspired and fearless in their approach to simply create clothing they like.”

She also expects contestants to have some knowledge of the fashion industry.

“Fashion brings a visual language to culture. I’m looking for designers who understand that, through their talent, they have the power to make a compelling statement and to reflect the spirit of the times,” Gasa said.