Realised by the French Institute of South Africa and the Goethe-Institute South Africa, the‘True Fashion: Try On Green Programme’ had the objective of reimagining the fashion of the future in response to the challenges posed by fast fashion and the environmental impact of the textile industry. As one of the mentors on this program, Lukhanyo was able to facilitate the importance of mentorship within the practice of design. To nurture the foundations of future designers is to also nurture their entrepreneurial capabilities, and in turn create communities. We have seen how mentorship brings a larger audience to emerging designers and this is incredibly valuable for the longevity within any vision label or brand.

The chosen designers (Nkosazana Hlalethwa, Xola Maxoba, Burton Miles, Khumo Morojele and Zovuyo Mputa) engaged in a six-week mentorship experience facilitated by the panel members. The program delved into techniques such as upcycling and incorporating sustainable materials, which were both instructed and put into practice during the duration of the program. In return, our own emphasis on mentorship was able to be ignited and continues to be instrumental in the label’s emphasis on education and skills-development.