Johannesburg - World-renowned designer to the stars, Gert-Johan Coetzee, is proud to announce the launch of the 2023 Fashion Design Bursary, an annual initiative that has been shaping the future of South African fashion since its inception in 2009. The lucky winner will embark on a transformative three-year journey of fashion education at Gert-Johan Coetzee's alma mater, the internationally accredited North West School of Design.

Gert explained his motivations behind the bursary programme, “The bursary is important to me (Gert) because it is my way of passing the torch to the next generation. I want the students, the diamonds in the rough, to have the same education that I had and then I want to give them the opportunity to come to my studio in Bryanston, and come and learn the actual practice of fashion design. I think it’s one thing to give people an education, but to give them that work experience and mentorship is priceless.”. Over the years, this prestigious bursary has not only provided winners with a comprehensive education but has also been instrumental in launching successful careers in the dynamic world of fashion. Former recipients are now employed by renowned designers and fashion organisations, established fashion professionals with their own clients, working as stylists and bloggers, and making a positive impact on the ever-evolving South African fashion scene.

Prudence Kau, one of the many illustrious recipients of the Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary, reflects on her experience, "The best part about the bursary was obviously studying at one of the best fashion schools in SA, NWSD, for 3 years and getting the opportunity to intern and work at the GJC studio. This gave me the necessary skills needed to be a fashion designer."

Currently, Prudence Kau runs her bridal fashion label, Rachel James Bridal (@racheljamesbridal) and has recently ventured into a ladies' tailoring business with a fellow NWSD graduate as her business partner. The brand Gaia (@gaiapm_), is set to open its studio in Kya Sand, Randburg, in January next year. Gert-Johan Coetzee and the North West School of Design take immense pride in Prudence Kau's accomplishments, showcasing how the Fashion Design Bursary continues to shape and empower the future leaders of the South African fashion industry.

The 2023 bursary, valued at an impressive R204,900, includes tuition fees and a cutting-edge Bernina sewing machine. The chosen winner is set to commence their studies on January 31, 2024, at the North West School of Design, which recently celebrated 25 years of excellence in training South Africa's top designers and fashion professionals.

Important Dates:

Bursary Launch: December 1, 2023Bursary Closing Date: December 22, 2023Finalists Notification: December 31, 2023Winner Announcement: January 5, 2024

How to Enter:

Visit nwsd.co.zaComplete the online application and press submit.Upload a 1-minute video on TikTok and Instagram:Showcase your favourite style or share one of your latest design sketches.Introduce yourself and where you are from.Use hashtags: #nwsd, #gert, #gertbursary2023, #fashiondesign, #fashionbursary, #fashionschool.Tag @nwsdfashion and @gertjohancoetzee.

Terms and Conditions:

Applicants must be South African citizens.Currently in Grade 12 or older.Gr 12 certificate with diploma exemption for those who have successfully passed.Previous applicants are welcome to re-enter.The winner must start studies in Klerksdorp on January 31, 2024.Proficiency in English is required.Two annual internships at Gert-Johan Coetzee studios are mandatory.Exclusions: Personal stationery, laptop, accommodation, and meals.

Gert-Johan Coetzee and the North West School of Design are excited to witness the creativity and talent that this year's bursary will unearth.  

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