AFTER the success of last year’s Buyel’Ekhaya Development Programme – Eastern Cape fashion designers have a chance of working with Thula Sindi and David Tlale again this year.
Last year’s winners have since moved on to greener pastures as they are due to begin their internships with Sindi and Tlale.
Buyel’Ekhaya Fashion Development Programme strives to ensure that the Eastern Cape-born participants and overall winners are exposed to various aspects of the fashion business including, but not limited to, establishing a brand, manufacturing and registering a business.
“This ties in with the overall objectives of government’s National Development Plan – [it is] the blueprint on the contribution of arts and culture to the economy through job creation, skills development and ultimately the socioeconomic imperatives of South Africa,” said Buyel’Ekhaya public relations officer Zanele Mzinyati.
This year’s programme began on October 2 when the call for entries opened.
“Aspiring designers are invited to apply to be a part of the action,” Mzinyati said.
The criteria for entry are as follows:
- Must have a qualification, or be studying towards one, in fashion design with an accredited institution;
- Must be a permanent resident of the Eastern Cape;
- Must be aged between 18 and 35;
- Must have three completed design sketches;
- Must be available to attend a compulsory workshop on October 23 in East London;
- Must be prepared to travel to Johannesburg from November 6 to 15;
- Must be prepared to be in East London from December 13 to 15.
Those interested are invited to enter by visiting the Buyel’Ekhaya website (and clicking on submissions and following the instructions) or e-mailing submissions@buyelekhaya.co.za. Entrants can also call (011)022-8844 between 12 noon and 2pm, Monday to Friday. Submissions close tomorrow.