An established fashion designer, 54-year-old Angie Masike, is venturing into opening a fashion academy in Emalahleni.
She said this opportunity came about after she had obtained a Bachelor of Technology Degree in Fashion Design at the age of 52.
Being a qualified fashion designer has always been her dream. “No one could understand how much it meant for me to hold that piece of paper for the first time. I worked on this qualification for over 10 years, tackling a subject in multiple years. Now the aim is to become a fashion giant who will create employment opportunities,” Masike said.
Her fashion interest and passion date back to when she was in Grade Six. “My parents saw how much I loved dressmaking and stitching. They enrolled me at a dressmaking school to learn more when my father stopped me and my siblings from going to a normal school during the 1976 uprising and riots around the country. I continued with dressmaking and loved everything about it,” she said.
Masike has been creating designs since her youth and became one of the best designers in eMalahleni. She designs bespoke attire for her business, Ntlu Ya Moroko.
ALSO READ: Phola attorney donates about 42 school uniforms to learners
This mother of three overcame some challenges as a student, mother and wife, however, she had had a great support structure.
“I had to raise my children and be a wife while running my business and studying. It was not a pleasant situation, but I conquered. As much as I love being fashionable, I wanted to be a fashionable and educated designer,” she said.
Becoming a design mogul, she has over time passed on her knowledge and skills to aspiring designers. “I have mentored a lot of young designers in my business. Like I said, acquiring the qualification opened more opportunities. My academy will offer vast skills development services for aspiring designers. The academy will be launched soon.”
ALSO READ: Zwelisha woman rises up in the baking industry
Masike said she hopes to be an inspiration to people young and old. “It is never too late to pursue your dreams and do whatever makes you happy. I am thankful to my family, who showed me support especially when it seemed impossible,” Masike said.
