Makhosazane Ntshangase, a young  fashion designer who trades under the brand name “Sistas Felas”, recently received a huge boost to her career when she  “galloped off” with the 2019 VDJ (Vodacom Durban July) Young Designer of the year award, as well as the Classic Racewear for Women title. The competition took place at the 2019 Durban July and was presented by the Durban Fashion Fair (DDF) in collaboration with the eThekwini Municipality.

Ntshangase, who hails from Port Shepstone but now resides in Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, also participates in the 2019 Durban Fashion Fair mentorship programme. DFF show convener, Sindi Shangase, who is also the programme manager for the BSTMU Fashion Development Programme in the Business Support, Tourism and Markets Unit, commended Ntshangase’s  stellar achievement. 

“This year all the participants did very well in their interpretation of the VDJ theme, but Makhosazane Ntshangase’s work stood out. She thoroughly deserved the win and we hope to see her excel  in her career so that she can mentor aspiring designers,” said Shangase. 

When asked about her win, Ntshangase commented:“I still can’t believe that I have won this award as I have only been in the industry for two years. I hope to open my new studio soon.”

Editor: Anchen Coetzee
Subeditor: Lynette Brink