 mentorship programme, inviting local emerging designers to apply before its March deadline. ){kind=link}
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.
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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.
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Sduduzo Nkwanyana, a 2023 DFF mentee, said the programme launched his brand and raised his profile.
“I now have my own studio and factory,” Nkwanyana said.
“I work with established clothing lines and produce school uniforms. This growth has enabled me to create employment opportunities for others.”
Another 2023 mentee, Noxolo Ngcobo, who now runs a studio in Springfield and an online store, said the programme helped her build skills and a sustainable business.
“All my achievements are a result of the 10-month mentorship. I will forever be grateful to have been selected,” she said.
The municipality said the programme aims to support aspiring designers through structured skills development, mentorship and market access, including platforms such as the DFF emporium, pop-up markets and fashion shows.
“Participants gain technical expertise, business tools, and networking opportunities, helping them connect with local and international buyers to grow sustainable brands and create jobs,” the municipality said.
Applications for the 2026 DFF mentorship programme close on 6 March 6 at 3pm.
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Applicants must submit a short biography of themselves or their fashion business, a motivational letter, storyboard, residential letter and proof of qualifications, the municipality said.
Applications must be hand-delivered to the city’s Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises Development Division under the Economic Development Directorate, 7th Floor, Embassy Building, 199 Anton Lembede Street.