Affirmations Media talks fashion with Katlego Ntlhane, aka McClarent of Menlyn Fashion Week, sharing insights, discussing the event’s importance, and revealing exciting news about the upcoming event in Pretoria, South Africa on February 1st.
McClarent aims for Menlyn Fashion Week to spotlight top South African talent, support local designers, boost the fashion industry, and lead as a premier event in Africa. A key focus is promoting entrepreneurship to combat high unemployment. The event fosters networking and collaboration in the fashion sector and beyond.
McClarent possesses a profound enthusiasm for fashion, expressing his conviction that fashion holds the potential to establish a legacy for South African culture and create a significant influence within the fashion sector. He aims to empower individuals by providing opportunities for young designers and aspiring professionals to advance in their careers. He emphasizes the importance of promoting South Africa by highlighting the nation’s distinctive talent and creativity to a global audience through fashion.
Explore the fashion industry in South Africa and the ways the government and private sector can fuel its growth.
McClarent emphasized that the fashion industry in the country is experiencing notable expansion, characterized by a dynamic array of skilled designers. Nevertheless, the sector faces significant obstacles, including restricted access to financing, insufficient infrastructure, and a formal trading and skills development deficiency.
Despite challenges, McClarent sees growth opportunities in sustainable fashion, ethical production, and global markets. Collaboration between governments and the private sector can establish partnerships for mentorship, funding, and market access, crucial for advancing South Africa’s fashion industry. Investment options like venture capital and angel investing are key catalysts. These initiatives can support the industry and emerging talents like McClarent.
How does Menlyn Fashion Week aim to empower youth?
“We offer mentorship programs that pair young designers with experienced industry professionals, providing guidance and support in their creative journeys,” McClarent said.
The Menlyn Fashion Week additionally provides skills development workshops designed to empower young individuals with essential competencies for success in the fashion sector, including design, pattern making, and fashion entrepreneurship. Furthermore, there are opportunities for collaboration intended to foster partnerships between emerging designers and established brands, thereby granting them significant industry experience and visibility, as noted by McClarent.
McClarent emphasized that the event also serves as a platform for young designers to present their creations to a broader audience, which includes industry buyers, media representatives, and the general public.
Menlyn Fashion Week event on the 01 February
“Join us for a celebration of South African fashion at Menlyn Fashion Week on February 1st! Discover the latest collections from leading designers, witness the talent of emerging stars, and experience the vibrant energy of the South African fashion scene.”
The event seeks to highlight the creativity and skill of South African designers to both national and international audiences. It aims to increase awareness regarding the challenges and opportunities present within the South African fashion industry, while also fostering robust relationships with stakeholders. McClarent stated, “We are committed to ensuring that Menlyn Fashion Week continues to develop and prosper, thereby making a meaningful impact on the South African industry and the wider economy.”