By Lebone Rodah Mosima
eThekwini municipality has opened applications for its 2026 Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) mentorship programme, inviting local emerging designers to apply before its March deadline.
Councillor Thembo Ntuli, chairperson of the city’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, has urged emerging designers to take part in the programme.
ALSO READ: Apex Education Group opens new school campus in Stellenbosch
Ntuli said that about 120 emerging designers have participated in the mentorship programme over the past five years, with more than R1.25 million raised to support 45 rising designers.
“Funding from eThekwini Municipality and the Hollywood Foundation provided equipment, strengthening businesses and helping scale operations for sustainable growth and impact across the industry,” he said.
Former mentees have said the programme helped them grow their businesses.
ALSO READ: Youth urged to turn recognition into action at 100 SA Shining Stars awards
Sduduzo Nkwanyana, a 2023 DFF mentee,
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Start your free trial today.
Start your FREE trial nowNeed help? molokom@insideeducation.co.za
 mentorship programme, inviting local emerging designers to apply before its March deadline. ){kind=link}