By Sitha Maliwa:
A spectacular celebration of South African identity unfolded on Saturday as ten standout student designers were named finalists in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award presented by Durban Fashion Fair. This pivotal moment in the fashion calendar brought together emerging talent, industry veterans, and cultural flair in a runway showdown that reflected the theme: “Marvels of Mzansi.”
Held at the iconic Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse during the Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge, the event narrowed down 25 semi-finalists from fashion institutions across KwaZulu-Natal to a final group of ten. The young designers’ creations paid tribute to the vibrancy of South African culture, from its landscapes and cuisine to entertainment and traditional rites of passage.
The 2025 theme invited bold interpretation, and the semi-finalists did not disappoint. “The colleges were wonderful in reflecting this year’s extremely high standard of work,” said Vuyisile Ngobese, judge and Hollywood Foundation Public Relations Officer. “It is a testament to the effort the lecturers and students have put in. It was tough for all of us, as we had to balance the theme against those whose work showcased technique and finish. There just had to be sacrifices.”
Ngobese continued, “These young designers captured the best essence of the theme ‘Marvels of Mzansi’. They went all out, manufacturing and producing fabric, taking it to the edge and they delivered.”
The competition will culminate on 5 July during the Hollywoodbets Durban July, hailed as Africa’s Greatest Horse Racing and Fashion Event. On that day, the top three winners will be revealed, but the journey continues beforehand at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping on 27 June. There, the finalists will join six designers from the Invited Designer Showcase presented by Dove and nine talents in the DFF Rising Stars Collection for a grand gala evening.
Invited Designer and judge Sandile ‘Duke’ Mngadi praised the overwhelming turnout and exceptional talent. “The huge number of callbacks before we even got to the top 25 finalists emphasizes the level of talent that showed up. I highly recommend that those who made the ‘callback’ list come to the main event (on 5 July) and take advantage of other showcase opportunities that are available on the day.”
He added, “The experience speaks volumes, not just for me as a designer, but for the growth of our industry, our fashion community. I was once a young designer myself. What Hollywoodbets Durban July is doing for young designers has never been seen before. This development stage is the most vital stage for any successful designer. So, it’s a big shout out to all relevant stakeholders.”
Joining the judging panel was celebrity stylist and creative director Phupho Gumede K, who brought a pan-African vision to the table. “Being a part of shaping the future of tomorrow’s young designers is an absolute honour as it gives me the chance to influence pockets of culture – culture that will in turn positively impact our society at large,” he said.
While only ten advanced to the final round, other aspiring designers have not reached the end of their journey. They are encouraged to take part in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Raceday Fashion Experience on 5 July, which includes competitions such as Most Striking Couple, Classic Racewear – Female, Classic Racewear – Male, and Exceptional Raceday Hat.
2025 Finalists: Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award presented by Durban Fashion Fair
Sinekamva 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
Buhle Sicwebue – Lindiwe Khuzwayo Academy of Fashion
Irene Price – Esayidi Fashion School
Queenton Mjweni – Durban University of Technology
Khethokuhle Thango – Igoda Incubator- @NewsSA_Online
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