Young fashionista wins once-in-a-lifetime opportunity

Thapelo ‘Thaps’ Makhanya (14), from Germiston, had his dreams come true when he was named one of the winners of the Style Squad Young Fashion Designer competition for 2020.

The Ackermans initiative celebrated its fifth year this year with the launch of its very own reality TV show, which was broadcast exclusively on Mzansi Magic and Mzansi Wethu.

Ten contestants from various provinces showcased their creative skills to TV audiences across Southern Africa as they competed for the two winning spots.

Jorja ‘Jorjie’ Jarvis (15) from Cape Town was the second winner in the competition.

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Thapelo who attends Kwa-Dukathole Comprehensive School in Katlehong had to tackle various design-related challenges throughout the 10-week competition, along with his fellow contestants, which tested his creativity and fashion knowledge.

“The Style Squad brand was established to provide a platform for young South African creatives to showcase their design talents,” said Tanya Ruiters, show judge and Ackermans marketing specialist.

“Not as many opportunities exist for the creatively inclined as for those who are more academically or sports driven.

“We’ve seen an increased interest in the number of entries each year, this led us to up the stakes and source a way for them to showcase their talents on a wider stage with more exposure and more opportunities.”

One hundred semi-finalists were selected from a nationwide pool of entries via a panel of judges and public vote.

The judges were then tasked with selecting five girls and five boys as the final top 10.

“We are greatly invested in the development of the people within our communities,” said Tanya.

“The development of the youth is a pivotal aspect to the future growth of any economy, and so we are excited to be contributing to the process of fostering South Africa’s young talent.”

As one of the winners of the competition Thapelo will design his own clothing range, under the guidance of leading industry buyers and trend specialists, which will be sold at Ackermans stores across SA.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to have been part of Style Squad,” Thapelo said.

“It has taught me confidence and to be proud of my talents”.

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He cannot wait for SA to see his clothing range.

“To have my own range is unbelievable,” he said.

“People can expect classic African looks and accessories from my range.

“It really is a dream come true.”

But this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is not all Thapelo won. He also won a cash prize of R10 000, an educational policy worth R10 000, a R5 000 donation for his school, a Style Squad hamper valued at R1 000, a professional photoshoot in his clothing range and a Foundation Fashion Course from the Cape Town College of Fashion Design (for after matric).

“Congratulations to Jorja and Thapelo on winning the first season of Ackermans Style Squad, and a special well done to all our contestants,” said Tanya.

“South Africans should keep their eyes peeled for the launch of these young designers’ Ackermans range in selected stores from April 3.”

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