Durban University of Technology (DUT) student Mlungisi Ndlovu won the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award on July 4, securing a R70 000 bursary. The competition, which saw 142 initial entries from KZN, aims to provide emerging fashion students with a professional platform to showcase their work.
How the Young Designer Award Supports Emerging Talent
The Hollywood Foundation, in partnership with Metro FM, designed the competition to provide a platform for students still in college to showcase their garments. According to Hollywood Foundation marketing manager Vuyisile Ngobese, the initiative helps students like Ndlovu cement themselves in the industry and grow as brands.
The selection process is rigorous. From the 142 initial applicants, the field was narrowed to 25, followed by the top 10. The winners can progress to the DFF Nine Rising Stars programme, where they get resources and support to build their businesses.
The competition theme, “Country Allure,” is shared with college heads early in the year to ensure they can share it with the students, though winners like Ndlovu often finalize their collections under tight deadlines.
Why Industry Support is Vital for Student Designers
For many students, the primary challenge is transitioning from academic garment construction to commercial viability. Mlungisi Ndlovu, currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Fashion and Design, emphasized the need for high-paying clients and investment to turn creative talent into job-creating enterprises.
“We are young entrepreneurs,” Ndlovu told the Daily Sun. “We want to create jobs, we want to create more jobs.”
Ngobese noted that the competition also serves a secondary purpose: changing parental perceptions of the fashion industry. Many families express concern regarding the financial sustainability of a career in design. By providing a platform for exposure, the award aims to prove that fashion can be a viable, long-term career path.
Future Trends in South African Fashion Design
The integration of media partners like Metro FM into fashion events allows for young designers to spread the word and potentially get clients once their brands and signatures are known in the industry.
Pro Tip: Aspiring designers should look for platforms that offer more than just a title; seek competitions that include business development support, such as the DFF Nine Rising Stars programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to enter the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award?
The competition is open to students still in college.
What does the winner receive?
The winner of the award receives a R70 000 bursary.
How are the winners selected?
The selection process involves a screening of 142 entries from across KZN, narrowing them down to 25, then to the top 10, before the final three receive bursaries.
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