Changing the narrative for women through the power of Storytelling and the Arts
In 2024, we will be #ShiftingPerspectives and urged to rethink our prejudice and to challenge societal norms of how we perceive and portray the role of women in society. The creative expression forges into fashion with five fashion designers redefining boundaries, breaking stereotypes and inspiring new action as they take inspiration from one artist’s spoken word and visualise the standpoint:
In 2024, we are #ShiftingPerspectives. The campaign urges us all to rethink our preconceptions and to challenge societal norms of how we perceive and portray the role of women in society. The creative expression forges into fashion with five fashion designers redefining boundaries, inspiring new action and breaking stereotypes as they take inspiration from one artist’s spoken word and visualise the standpoint:
“Change starts when perspectives shift. It starts with me.”
Gugu Peteni, a visionary in South African fashion designer, embarked on her creative journey by studying fashion and textile design at Nelson Mandela University, graduating with honours in 2017. After honing her skills as the in-house designer and retail manager at Mohair SA, Gugu ventured into entrepreneurship, founding the dynamic brand GUGUBYGUGU.
Keneilwe Mothoa is a visionary Interior and fashion designer that was born in Mpumalanga and raised in Johannesburg. She studied interior design at the University of Johannesburg and co-founded the brand Neimil, known for its innovative approach to blending fashion and interior design. Neimil combines bold aesthetics with functional elegance, showcasing African heritage through contemporary design and celebrating diversity while redefining industry standards.
Manthe Ribane is one of the freshest names coming out of South Africa right now. The multi-hyphenate being a musician, performer, designer, interior designer, graphic designer, and creative director. Manthe’s new ventures combine her artistic vision with environmental consciousness. Together with this, her work integrates capsule collections, workshops, exhibitions, and more, fostering creative exploration and collaboration.
Qui Qarre is a Kenyan-born spoken word artist who utilises her craft to advocate for various social causes. Her work primarily focuses on themes of social concern, and she is particularly interested in leadership and mentorship. Her poems have enabled her to embark on artistic tours.
Thando Ntuli, founder and Creative Director of MUNKUS, launched her brand in 2019 to empower women through colourful, trans-seasonal fashion inspired by 80s and 90s South African styles. With a focus on simplicity and multi-purposefulness, Thando’s designs celebrate individuality and evoke a sense of home.
Tsakani Mashaba creates contemporary African art inspired by liminal spaces. Known for her architectural and standout handmade leather accessories, Johannesburg-based designer Tsakani Mashaba creates her range of beautiful and unique products under the brand Hamethop, which fuses local materials, ancient African techniques, and contemporary design.