DURBAN’S fabulous young emerging designers, Kujula Mtambo and Kathryn De Jesus, were the lucky recipients of the coveted opportunity to retail at Durban’s trendiest boutique, 75 on Stamford in Morningside.
The two, who are current members of the KZN Fashion Council, had their collections launched at the boutique last week after a rigorous capacity building programme that equips designers with relevant skills and capacity to retail.
According to Nomonde Masoka Operations Manager at the KZN Fashion Council, the Retail Programme forms part of capacity building initiatives that aims at enhancing Durban’s young designers to retail, offering business support to ensure sustainability.
Acting programme director of the FCKZN, Shavera Sayed said both designers had really shown passion and dedication to their garments and were deserving of the opportunity. “Kat is an absolutely talented designer with no fashion qualification but pure talent and passion and Kujula designs are amazing, he rocked SA Fashion week!”
Internationally renowned Durban designer, Haroun Hansrot said he was happy to be part of the KZNFC’s Retail Programme and have the designers garments at 75 on Stamford. “It is very difficult for young and emerging designers. I also opened the studio at 75 to give young designers a platform to showcase their work.”
Hansrot has offered to support and mentor the designers while they share space at his boutique.
The designers will be responsible for 20 per cent of the rail space while the KZNFC will be responsible for 80 per cent, ensuring that the designers work hard to maintain their rail space.
The KZNFC is a non- profit organization established to support the fashion design sector. The organisation is founded and funded by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and Tourism (KZNDEDT) and the eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development and Investment Promotions Unit. The KZNFC supports local designers through a number of strategic programmes such as mentorship, learning and networking and market access.
