Latest news with #FreeStateFashionWeek
The Citizen
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- The Citizen
Anele Mdoda on how SA women are redefining womanhood
Women's Day will be commemorated on Saturday. Radio and TV personality Anele Mdoda says South African women are leading a quiet revolution, one defined by softness, balance, and intention. Mdoda was speaking at the launch of the inaugural 1st for Women Insights Report, Her and Now: Insights into the Women of South Africa 2025, unveiled ahead of Women's Day on Saturday, 9 August, where she served as host. The report explores the lived experiences of more than 4 000 women across the country, offering insight into how they are navigating financial pressures, safety concerns, and emotional burnout, while reshaping what it means to be a woman today. Mdoda said the findings reflect a necessary cultural shift. 'This research needs to be heard in nuggets by women every single day. There's a quiet revolution happening, and softness is the behaviour leading it. One quote that stands out for me is, 'You have to schedule the good times, because the bad times don't make an appointment,'' she said. She added that joy, no matter how small, is an act of power. 'You've got the power to make sure that you're having a good time. Whether it's a cappuccino at Starbucks or buying new glasses you don't need — if it makes you happy, do it.' Dr Reitumetse Mpholle, senior manager of Insights and Research Initiatives at 1st for Women, said the data shows that women continue to live at the intersection of progress and inequality. 'While legal and educational progress has opened doors, the realities of race, class, and gender still shape access to safety, freedom, and opportunity,' she said. 'Patriarchal norms remain deeply rooted. For many women, ambition is matched by the need to simply survive — in a country where gender-based violence, limited healthcare access, and poverty are daily challenges.' ALSO READ: Zozibini Tunzi to host Free State Fashion Week's Women's Day Business & Fashion Festival Key insights from the report The study highlights that in 2025, South African women are more connected, expressive, and ambitious than ever before. But they are also more fatigued, more vulnerable, and more burdened by structural barriers. Key findings include: The power paradox: More than 90% say people assume they can handle everything. Meanwhile, 68% admit they judge themselves more harshly than others do. The price of joy: 88% believe financial independence is essential for happiness, yet 63% lack the means to pursue their goals. The burden of strength: 67% feel they are expected to 'keep it all together' daily. Some 68% say others depend on them emotionally, financially, or socially. A gentle rebellion: 58% agree that the right to exhale is as important as the drive to succeed — yet 43% say they rarely have uninterrupted time to themselves. Sisterhood and solidarity: 86% believe female solidarity is key to progress. A striking 97% say they 'show up for other women even when it's difficult.' Unsafe haven: Only 36% feel South Africa is built for them. Nearly one in four say they feel invisible or unheard in their own communities. NOW READ: WATCH: Anthony Hamilton promises to 'tear his shoes up' for Mzansi Women's Day concert
Mail & Guardian
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Mail & Guardian
Local threads, global dreams
Worldly: Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi will be the host at Free State Fashion Week. Being a city kid means I have a globalised perspective on a lot of things. Although I have a pro-African stance on most matters, admittedly, this can tend to end up as ideological rather than manifest in my lived experiences. This is true of my fashion preferences. From silhouettes to fabrics, designers to trends, my gaze feels a tad influenced by those beyond the borders of Mzansi. Now, is this a bad thing? Not at all. (Shhhhh, don't call me out if I'm self-soothing here.) Since the boom of global trade centuries ago, the intersectionality of cultures has metamorphosed what were once foreign customs into a melting pot of expressions with threads stretching from Shanghai to Bloemfontein. That said, it came as no surprise to me to learn of the Asian and European influence on Basotho culture, and now modern-day Free State, through the introduction of textiles such as cotton and indigo-dyed fabrics in the 16th century. This put into perspective the global ambitions of the Free State Fashion Week (FSFW). The showpiece event is taking place on 12 and 13 September, with the FSFW Women's Day Business and Fashion Fest taking place on Women's Day at the Bloemfontein City Hall. With Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi set to host the event, a performance by Ami Faku and a guest appearance from media personality and musician Unathi Nkayi, the City of Roses is set to bloom brighter than usual. FSFW not only highlights fashion and trendsetting styles, but also promotes cultural heritage, creativity and diversity. 'I think our style is raw and our distinct flavour in the fashion industry is shaped by the province's cultural heritage, natural beauty and creative spirit,' Free State upcoming designer Shirley Magqaza says. The burgeoning talent is showcasing her work at the 9th instalment of the prestigious annual fashion and lifestyle event, celebrating the creative spirit of both established and emerging designers from the province and across South Africa. Global the influence might be, but the beginnings are often humble and rooted in one's immediate experience at home. It was no different for the brain behind SHIRQreates. 'I have always loved clothes and that's what brought me to my love for fashion design. I started by making clothes for my dolls then my mom would bring me clothes from where she was working and I'd style them,' Magqaza shares. The Epitome of Luxury Fashion, the collection Magqaza showcased at last year's Free State Fashion Week, evoked the childlike playfulness many of us abandon as we grow up. The garments look as if they are plucked from an unbridled, expressive mind and placed on life-size dolls. 'I would describe myself as unique, stylish and elegant because that is what we cater for in my company.' It's a company born out of courage after Magqaza left her job at Jumbo wholesaler to pursue her dreams of being a fashion designer. Courage, ever one to reward those faithful to it, followed suit for the Motheo TVET College graduate as she showcased her work at South Africa Focus Week in Singapore. But success has not come with its difficulties and, for Magqaza, among these were access and resources. 'My biggest challenge is not having my own space and machinery to do the work because sometimes you have to reach a certain target and it's not easy.' A resilient entrepreneurial spirit is needed to succeed in South Africa — especially in the Free State. With a 38% unemployment rate and a staggering 45.5% youth unemployment rate in the province last year, according to Statistics South Africa, there is an urgent need for innovation and inclusive interventions, particularly in high-impact sectors like the creative economy. This was issued from the top by FSFW founder Candy Smith at the inaugural event in 2016. 'When I started out, it was me as a professional fashion designer, who studied fashion and had my own challenges, and I wanted to assist aspiring fashion designers to have a platform to showcase their talents,' Smith reflects. Whereas global trade had a favourable effect on the fabrics of the region centuries ago, post-1994 the repercussions of globalisation have not been kind to the Free State. Worldly: Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi will be the host at Free State Fashion Week. Pictures: Hayani Africa International trade agreements saw tariffs reduced from 100% to 40% in 2002, resulting in an open market for cheap imports and, ultimately, a decline in local manufacturing. The rise of counterfeit local products is a problem not front of mind for the public and generally poorly covered in the media. The textile and fashion industry, though filled with glitz and glam, is in dire need of grit and guile. Empowerment has never been as important for the industry as it is now — something Smith foresaw and proactively sought to remedy through the creation of the Free State Fashion Hub. One beneficiary of this institution has been alumnus and designer Rethabile Maxwell Blom. 'The Free State Fashion Hub has been instrumental in my growth,' says the multi-disciplinary designer of clothing and shoes under his brand Blom Luxe. 'It offered structure, mentorship and real-world exposure. Beyond technical skills, it helped me understand the business side of fashion and connected me with industry professionals who took the time to invest in my journey. It turned a dream into a viable career path. And they continue to support me.' Mentorship is a vital cog in the machine that is Free State Fashion Hub, especially as Smith herself benefitted from scholarships and mentors who guided her on her journey. Blom says mentorship has been a game-changer: 'Having people who have walked the path guide me, offer feedback and sometimes challenge me, gave me the confidence to grow. 'It's not just about creative advice. It's the mindset, the discipline and the bigger picture thinking that mentorship within FSFW instilled in me.' That creative and intellectual tug-of-war is evident in his designs. There is an unapologetic boldness to Blom Luxe that is evident from the designer's sketches to its shoes, showing no signs of fearing to stand out. But one thing about Free State designers is always present, darling: culture, culture, culture. 'I'd describe myself as a culturally rooted, forward-thinking designer. My work sits at the intersection of heritage and innovation. 'I'm very intentional about designing garments that are both wearable and expressive pieces that carry meaning but still speak to modern aesthetics. There's always a story behind the work,' Blom says. 'I hope to see more support for local designers, not just from within the industry, but from our communities too. 'I'd love to see the Free State become a hub for fashion innovation with platforms that invest in young talent and help retain creatives in the province. More visibility, infrastructure and unity.' Smith is nearing a decade of pouring energy into the growth of the textile industry in the region in the hope of churning out more testimonies like those of Magqaza and Blom. Funding is an industry-wide challenge, and FSFW is no different, with Smith often tapping into her own coffers to get over the line. But her motivation does not waver. 'Seeing them [fashion hub students] graduating after a year or two years gives me such satisfaction to say, 'We have a better life here and changed lives forever.' It's so amazing and overwhelming.' Previous showcase: Simon & Mary. FSFW is inviting both emerging and established designers to apply to showcase their collections this year — as well as aspiring models to take the runway. The selected designers will present their work before a live audience, media and industry professionals. Designers can apply by sending a short bio; a portfolio or lookbook and contact details to Model castings are at 8am at Sapphire Hotel, 92 Charles Street, Bloemfontein, on 16 August. Applicants asked to arrive all in black with ZCards or full-length photos. The Women's Day Business and Fashion Fest, however, was a perfect appetiser for what is to come. 'This year's programme is one of the most meaningful we've ever produced. We are proud to be a platform that brings together some of the most impactful women in leadership, from fashion to music to media, and we're just as passionate about opening up space for the next generation,' Smith concluded. Themed Glam with a Touch of Pink, event host Tunzi had one call to action for the people joining the festivities in a video shared on FSFW's official social media page: 'You are your ancestors' wildest dreams. So, show up, take up space and shine unapologetically. I'm looking forward to spending the day with you!' It's the perfect rallying call for a series of events rooted in culture, heritage and uniqueness. Perhaps being a city kid isn't all that bad. The FSFW community, as well as the Free State's textile history, are evidence a global perspective can still have local relevance and resonance. Or maybe I'm just really good at self-soothing. You be the judge.
TimesLIVE
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Zozibini Tunzi, Ami Faku, and Unathi to lead Women's Day celebration
The countdown is on for this year's Free State Fashion Week (FSFW), and the 2025 Women's Day Business and Fashion Fest is shaping up to be one for the books. Set to take place on August 9 at Bloemfontein's city hall, the event will celebrate fashion, storytelling and women empowerment under the theme 'Glam with a Touch of Pink'. Leading the star-studded line-up is Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi, who will make her Bloemfontein debut as the host of the Women's Breakfast. She'll be joined by award-winning singer Ami Faku, renowned media personality Unathi Nkayi, local favourite Angela Linda and DJ Binnz for a day packed with purpose and performance. 'I am so thrilled to be your host. It's a celebration of purpose, a celebration of power,' said Zozibini. 'You are your ancestors' wildest dreams. Show up, take up space, and shine unapologetically.' FSFW CEO Candi Smith said this year's programme is about more than glitz and glamour. 'We're bringing together some of the most impactful women across fashion, music and media and we're just as passionate about creating space for emerging voices,' she said. FSFW has announced open callouts for designers and models, encouraging Free State creatives to own the runway.
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Business
- The Citizen
40 years of Kagiso Trust: Real stories of real women changing SA
With support from Kagiso Trust, women are rebuilding broken towns, producing organic food, and launching businesses that reach global markets. Noziphiwo Zumani felt defeated as she watched her hometown deteriorating and its people losing hope. Nomsa Ngwenya knew how to grow cocktail tomatoes but she had no transport to get them to market. Dipuo Phakathi's side hustle was showing promise but she needed help to get it to the next level. Kagiso Trust celebrates 40 years of empowerment Today, all three women – and thousands of others – are seeing their dreams come true thanks to support from Kagiso Trust, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary as one of South Africa's leading development organisations. 'As we celebrate Women's Day on 9 August, it's inspiring to see how our programmes have been able to ignite women's capacity, empowering them to drive sustainable change for themselves and their communities,' says Kagiso Trust CEO Mankodi Moitse. 'Everything we do is based on the belief that investing in people is the greatest investment of all and the women who have benefited from our local governance, education and socioeconomic development programmes have proved that time and time again.' Makhanda revival led by women with vision Zumani, 42, says she remembers the Eastern Cape town of Makhanda when it was 'at its peak, economically and socially'. But things deteriorated and no-one seemed interested in 'bringing back the dignity that we as black people had in Makhanda'. That changed in 2023 when Kagiso Trust ran asset-based capacity-building community-led development workshops as part of its pilot governance model in the town. Zumani and others were inspired to launch a non-profit company, Imbumba Yeembonim, or collective unity of visionaries, to tackle social challenges. ALSO READ: Zozibini Tunzi to host Free State Fashion Week's Women's Day Business & Fashion Festival They identified four strategic pillars on which to build 'sustainable solutions that foster empowerment' – tourism, environment and healthy living, sport and education. Today, they host heritage tours guided by residents who share authentic Xhosa stories. The second pillar will be introduced later this year, aiming to improve nutrition and the physical landscape by establishing community gardens and rehabilitating dumpsites. Zumani says Imbumba Yeemboni has become a 'beacon of hope'. Imbumba Yeembonim founder Noziphiwo Zumani. Picture: Supplied Organic farming dreams take root in Limpopo Ngwenya has a master's degree in agricultural science, but instead of following a conventional career, she decided to set up an organic farming business in the Mopani district of Limpopo, specialising in cocktail tomatoes, herbs and moringa. Things were difficult without international certification or a way to transport her products to market. This changed in 2022 when she joined the Spar Rural Hub farmer development programme, which is supported by Kagiso Trust's Tyala Impact Fund. The programme provides small-scale farmers with resources, training and access to markets. Ngwenya says it was 'a game-changer'. Last year, she was named female farmer of the year at the Kagiso Spar Agri-Awards that celebrated excellence among the emerging farmers in Spar's Mopani Rural Hub programme. She used her prize money to invest in solar-powered irrigation. ALSO READ: Laconco, Lootlove and Relebogile Mabotja among big winners at Basadi in Music Vanguard Awards Through the Agri-Awards, Kagiso Trust committed R3 million in funding to support 10 outstanding farmers from the programme who had demonstrated significant improvement and profitability during the financial year. From side hustle to international furniture brand Phakathi, a qualified engineer, was working in Standard Bank's enterprise development department in 2017 when a negative experience with a cabinet supplier persuaded her to start a side hustle, DeNic Cabinets, in partnership with a carpenter. In 2019, she resigned from her job to focus on the business fulltime, but then Covid struck. Fortunately, Phakathi spent the first half of 2020 as a member of the first cohort in Kagiso Trust's PROPreneurX, a property entrepreneur accelerator programme. It was established to support black property entrepreneurs to be market- and finance-ready in order to grasp opportunities in the property sector and the overall entrepreneurial ecosystem. When she graduated from PROPreneurX, Phakathi said she had learned the value of strategy, deepened her leadership skills and built business networks. 'I wanted to see where I needed to place my business, who I needed to market and speak to,' she said. 'Collaboration is key. I wanted to build a network of trusted suppliers I could go into projects with. Who better to refer to a client than the same people you have sat down in a classroom with and know? For me, that was gold.' Phakathi now delivers high-end custom furniture across South Africa and internationally. NOW READ: Tholsi Pillay shares victory with Wouter Kellerman at Basadi Women in Music Awards
The Citizen
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Citizen
Winter-proof your makeup with tips from celeb makeup artist Nomsa Madida
When temperatures dip and dry air settles in, your summer makeup routine just won't cut it. Winter calls for a more nourishing, protective approach to foundation. If you're wondering how to winter-proof your makeup and keep it flawless, celebrity makeup artist Nomsa Madida gives tips to ensure it stays flawless despite the harsh weather. Madida is a beauty entrepreneur and makeup artist to the stars – including Somizi Mhlongo and Thembisa Mdoda – a Basadi award Make-up artist of the Year winner and owner of SASA Cosmetics. She shares her expert tips on adjusting your foundation for long wear, hydration, and a radiant cold-weather glow. Why you need to switch up your foundation in Winter Nomsa Madida with media personality Somizi Mhlongo. Picture: Supplied During winter, the skin loses moisture faster due to cold winds, dry indoor heating, and less natural oil production. A foundation that once looked fresh in summer may now flake, crack, or vanish by midday. Knowing how to winter-proof your makeup can make all the difference. 'In colder months, skin becomes more fragile and dehydrated,' says Madida. 'This impacts how your foundation wears, especially if your base routine isn't adjusted.' To beat the seasonal beauty blues, a skin-first approach is essential for hydration, protection, and smart product layering. Step 1: Hydrate and prime like a pro The art of contouring. Picture iStock Your winter makeup routine should always start with a deeply hydrating skincare base. A moisturiser that's rich yet non-greasy is key to preventing flaking and improving foundation adherence. 'Always begin with a moisturiser that contains ceramides or hyaluronic acid,' says Madida. 'Think of it as prepping your skin to be a smooth, supple canvas.' Winter-proofing your makeup involves choosing the right products for hydration. Next, apply a hydrating primer. Look for ones with glycerin, aloe, or vitamin E to help lock in moisture and add a layer of protection against the elements. ALSO READ: Zozibini Tunzi to host Free State Fashion Week's Women's Day Business & Fashion Festival Step 2: Never forget the SPF Cloudy skies don't mean you're safe from sun damage. UV rays can still affect your skin, especially when reflected off winter surfaces like snow or glass. 'SPF isn't just for summer,' Madida warns. 'Sun protection is the foundation of anti-aging and healthy skin even in July.' Choose a moisturising sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that layers well under foundation. Many new-generation sunscreens offer both hydration and high protection, without leaving a white cast or greasiness. Step 3: Change Your foundation formula Nomsa Madida's clients include Big Brother Mzansi winner Michelle Dimpho 'Mphowabadimo' Mvundla. Matte, full-coverage foundations can cling to dry patches in winter and look cakey. The trick is to switch to hydrating or dewy foundations that offer coverage without drying the skin. 'In winter, I always recommend a lightweight, hydrating formula that blends well and adds luminosity,' says Madida. 'Our SASA loose bronzer or a hydrating skin tint, for example, gives natural coverage while keeping the skin supple.' Look out for foundations with ingredients like squalane, jojoba oil, or hyaluronic acid. These will nourish the skin and keep your makeup looking fresh longer. ALSO READ: No hairline? How to stop hair loss in Afro-textured hair today! Step 4: Apply gently and layer wisely Picture iStock How you apply your foundation matters. Winter skin needs gentle handling and thin, buildable layers for the most flattering result. 'Use a damp beauty sponge or your fingers to press the foundation into the skin,' advises Madida. 'This warms up the product and avoids disturbing dry patches.' Avoid dragging a brush across flaking areas; instead, use a tapping motion to build coverage gradually. Step 5: Set with care, not excess Picture iStock Powder still plays a role in keeping makeup in place, but too much can be a disaster in dry weather. Set only where you need it. 'Focus on the T-zone or under eyes, using a lightweight, finely-milled setting powder,' says Madida. 'Don't powder dry areas like the cheeks, it will only exaggerate texture.' Finish your look with a hydrating setting spray to melt all the layers together and add a moisture-locking seal to your makeup. Nomsa's winter-proof foundation tips: Picture iStock Mix foundation with moisturiser: Blend a pump of foundation with your moisturiser for a sheer, skin-like finish. Cream products are your friends: Cream blush, bronzer, and highlighter add warmth without drying out your skin. Weekly exfoliation is a must: Gentle exfoliation removes dry patches that can ruin even the best foundation. Stay hydrated internally: Drink water and consider using a humidifier in your room to support skin from the inside. Transitioning your foundation routine for winter doesn't require a complete overhaul, just smart switches and gentle techniques. Focus on hydration, choose glow-enhancing products, and set with care. 'Your winter makeup should feel like skincare with a little extra magic,' says Madida. 'With the right foundation and prep, your skin can glow through the cold.' Winter-proofing your makeup is about finding the balance between coverage and hydration. So whether you're heading to a frosty office morning or a glamorous winter night out, these pro-approved tweaks will keep your makeup looking fresh, flawless, and fabulous.
