The man behind it all

Director, choreographer and show producer Jan Malan has made his mark in the fashion hub of Joburg.

Having produced more than 26 fashion shows at Sandton City itself, Malan in conjunction with his production house is also the man behind some major productions in Mzansi and the world.

The hallmark event is the Hospice Wits Night with the Stars fashion show which takes place every year in April at Sandton City.

Originally scouted as a model, Malan’s interest in show producing stemmed from his travelling parents, music and fashion. Umzingeli Productions was born and the rest is history.

“While I was a model for a fashion show I realised that I can actually do this. I took an interest in the behind the scenes of it all and they gave me a shot. I did my first fashion show and I never looked back,” he said.

Driven by promoting all things African, Malan is currently working on a new concept which showcases African designers abroad. He is also in talks about the next Hospice Wits Night with the Stars and said the show would be bigger and better.

“This is where I do my thing. Since its inception, I have been the one behind the annual Hospice Wits Night with the Stars fashion show which takes place in Sandton City every year,”

With its roots originating in the heart of Sandton at Summerplace, Malan decided that it was time to go bigger.

“It’s given me an amazing opportunity to work with every public figure, from celebrities to newsreaders and everything else, all on one stage at one time. I’m very proud of it. Going into our sixth year, now what we aim to do and we achieve every year is to have over 100 celebrities in the show.”

Malan has also worked alongside the likes of Sir Elton John, model Tyra Banks and designer Carolina Herrera to name just a few.

With pop culture ever-changing, the show has become an extravaganza of music, fashion and good people.

With more than 30 years in the industry, Malan spearheaded the Face of Africa competition and founded the Mr South Africa pageant.

Being an expert in the industry, he also mentioned that fashion was constantly evolving.

“I would like to ask people to look at sustainability. Move away from big brands and mass fashion. Start focusing on what you can get locally in your area, start promoting those people within the community.”

With concerns over affordability and quality, Malan said even on a budget the public could get quality clothing.

“Develop your own style and get the same calibre of clothing you would at a big brand. Shrink your footprint and ensure that you’re not wearing garments made by children.

“Just be more aware, find out what you wearing who made it and why. All of us need to think about what we’re wearing and what is it doing to the planet.”

And when he is not producing amazing shows you can catch him at Virgin Active in Alice Lane winding down.

Related articles:

https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/240257/fresh-perspective-fabulous-sa-fashion-week/

https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/246002/quintessential-south-african-fashion/