Award-Winning Textile Designer “Bongiwe Walaza” Redefines African Fashion.

Renowned fashion designer, Bongiwe Walaza is undoubtedly a true definition of black excellence. She has contributed tremendously in the African Textile Industry.  Her unrivalled contribution to the industry has changed the way, and how African women perceive fashion. The celebrated fashion designer makes wearable clothes for real women. Her designs are made to enhance the beauty of women’s body shape and movement. Bongiwe describes her style as African tradition crossed with victorian and aside from using isisweshwe (an African fabric with patterns and different colors), she uses a lot of satin, taffeta and some velvet.

Walaza’s humble beginnings gave birth to her great achievements. Born in Mnqanduli , a small village in the Eastern Cape. The notable designer grew up enjoying knitting and sewing. This became evident when she started making her own clothes and building her own client base. Believe it or not she’s also a qualified electrical engineer, however she couldn’t resist her first love “Fashion”. In 1997, Bongi enrolled and pursued fashion designing at Natal Technikon. She further obtained a national diploma in fashion, moved to Johannesburg and never looked back.

Walaza has had a colorful journey thus far, her achievements include showcasing and exhibiting in New York, Las Vegas, India, London, Singapore, Japan, and Milan amongst others. In addition, she designed for Edgars stores and is affiliated with DAGAMA, local textile company that produces the Mandela Range. The Isishweshwe signature designer is also the recipient of the MNET Africa Design Award,which took her to New York Fashion Week in 2011, and she has since dressed a number of public figures and private clients.

The one thing closest to Bongi, is the desire to promote the welfare of others. The celebrated designer has given back to the community by sharing her expertise and skills, and she was also involved in the product development  of Wild Silk Africa , while providing training for its employees. The dedication and passion “Bongiwe Walaza” puts in her craft is mind blowing.

website: http://bongiwewalaza.com/

Address:  Unit 24 Mifa Industrial Park | 339 George Road, Randjespark, Midrand, 1685

Tel: 0112387136