Five South African Female Designers Make Their Debut at New York Fashion Week

by Africa in Harlem | posted in: Africa, African Diaspora New York, African fashion designer, African Immigrant New Yorkers, Africans in New York/Africains de New York, Fashion, Photos & News - African New Yorkers in Harlem and Beyond, South Africa - Afrique du Sud |

Photos credit: Isseu Diouf Campbell

Gugu Peteni, Manthe Ribane Liebmann, Kenelwe Mothoa, Thando Ntuli, and Tshakani Mashaba were the five South African female designers selected by Jaguar South Africa to make their debut at New York Fashion Week on September 11, 2024, at Chelsea Factory in Manhattan.

Gugu Peteni’s collection was entitled “Do Not Tumble Dry AW 25”; Manthe Ribane Liebmann presented “M. Aura”; Kenelwe Mothoa showcased “Leeto La Ka (My Journey)”; Thando Ntuli unveiled “Iphupho (A Dream)”; and Tshakani Mashaba displayed “Resonance.”

Their collections, titled The Crown Collection, curated by the African Fashion Council, celebrated the creativity of these five South African designers and honored thirty years of South Africa’s freedom, empowerment, and cultural expression. The collection was inspired by the theme #ShiftingPerspectives, which challenges societal stereotypes and serves as a catalyst for change.

#GiveHerACrown is an initiative dedicated to empowering women and amplifying their voices through the power of storytelling and the arts. Sponsored by Jaguar South Africa, the campaign champions positive change, inspiring and celebrating women across Africa.

Thando Ntuli’s collection “Iphupho (A Dream)” – New York Fashion Week 2024