IWISA No.1’s trailblazing Fills Bold Designer Search closes on 13 July 2025

The search for South Africa’s next streetwear icons — launched in May — has already captured the imagination of young designers across the country. The competition has seen a surge in submissions in recent weeks, with many entrants using the mid-year break to perfect their entries and submit bold, creative designs that celebrate South African identity and culture.

“We’ve been inspired by the incredible energy and enthusiasm shown so far,” says Phumzile Nhlapo, Senior Brand Manager: Maize, Breakfast and Pasta at Premier. “It was clear to us that many young designers were using the student holidays to unlock their creativity and finalise their collections — and we wanted to give them just a little more time to do so. Extending the deadline to 13 July ensures everyone who’s been working hard to ‘fill bold’ has a fair shot at entering.”

The IWISA No.1 Fills Bold Designer Search invites designers between the ages of 18 and 35 to create a bold, six-piece streetwear collection inspired by IWISA’s heritage of belonging, community, and culture. The competition champions self-taught and emerging talent, offering them an opportunity to make their mark on the fashion scene and gain exposure through prestigious platforms.

This extension gives entrants more time to complete the submission process, which includes uploading their designs using the official template and submitting a written creative motivation that tells the story behind their vision. The creative brief remains available online at: https://qr.premierfmcg.com/website/2000.

The stakes remain high:

• The top three winners will share R20 000 in cash

• The winner takes home a brand-new MacBook Pro

• All three will be featured in two of South Africa’s leading design publications, giving them national visibility and a launchpad for their careers

“For any young creative who’s been dreaming of breaking into the fashion world, this is your moment. You’ve got just over a week to refine your designs and enter,” adds Nhlapo. “The runway is ready. The industry is watching. It’s time to Fill Bold.”

Entries close at 23:59 on Sunday, 13 July 2025.