Mzansi’s boldest and brightest fashion students lit up the runway in June, as the final ten contestants were selected for the prestigious Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award presented by Durban Fashion Fair.
The selection took place during the running of the Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge at Greyville Racecourse, with 25 semi-finalists from fashion colleges across KwaZulu-Natal presenting their interpretations of this year’s theme: “Marvels of Mzansi”. Their work reflected the diverse spirit of South Africa – from the country’s vibrant food and iconic landscapes to its rich cultural traditions and entertainment.
The competition now narrows its focus to the top 10 finalists, who will move on to fashion’s biggest local stage at Africa’s Greatest Horse Racing and Fashion Event on 5 July 2025, where the final three winners will be announced.
Before that, however, all eyes turn to the Gateway Theatre of Shopping gala on 27 June, where these ten finalists will join top talent from the Invited Designer Showcase presented by Dove and the DFF Rising Stars Collection for an unforgettable fashion experience.
“These young designers captured the best essence of the theme ‘Marvels of Mzansi’. They went all out, producing their own fabrics and pushing creative boundaries,” .
said Vuyisile Ngobese, Hollywood Foundation PR Officer and competition judge
Renowned designer and judge Sandile ‘Duke’ Mngadi praised the quality of work seen even before the top 25 were selected, urging those who didn’t make the final cut to still participate in the Durban July Raceday Fashion Experience competitions on race day.
“Being a part of shaping tomorrow’s designers is an absolute honour – fashion shapes culture, and culture shapes society.”
Celebrity stylist and creative director Phupho Gumede K, also on the judging panel, said:
Final 10 Designers:
- S’nekamva Xali (Umgungundlovu TVET College)
- Mpilo Sithole (Durban University of Technology)
- Nothile Mkhungo (Esayidi Fashion School)
- Andile Cele (Umgungundlovu TVET College)
- Neliswa Gcwabaza (Umgungundlovu TVET College)
- Manqoba Mnguni (Igoda Incubator)
- Sethu Sicwebu (Lindiwe Khuzwayo Academy of Fashion)
- Irene Price (Esayidi Fashion School)
- Queenton Mjweni (Durban University of Technology)
- Khetha Thango (Igoda Incubator)
As the countdown begins to race day, South Africa prepares to witness the rising stars of fashion bring the Marvels of Mzansi to life on the runway.
Stay tuned to Urban Lifestyle and follow the journey of these ten fearless creatives reshaping South Africa’s fashion future.
