Iwisa NO.1 Launches 'fills Bold Designer Search'

“If you're a young South African designer, artist or fashion enthusiast aged between the ages of 18 and 35, it's time to rise up and reimagine what 'homegrown' can look like," says Sibongile Mooko, Premier Executive of Marketing (Milling). 

Mooko adds that as a brand, IWISA No.1 has always been future-facing and purpose-driven. "While we may be a legacy brand in existence since 1956, our promise of building communities to make everyday people's everyday lives better remains just as relevant today as it was when we first launched."

“The 'Fills Bold Designer Search' is an extension of that promise: empowering young next-generation creatives to express themselves, connect with their culture and shape a bold new future," says Mooko. 

Open to young South Africans between the ages of 18 and 35, the competition challenges applicants to create a full streetwear collection inspired by IWISA No.1's identity. The required set includes a t-shirt, jackets, pants, a bucket hat, tote bag and socks. "Designs must draw on South Africa's cultural heritage while bringing in modern streetwear swagger," says Mooko. "Think 'local drip' meets bold design thinking." 

Submissions need to be shared online as per the entry guidelines and templates available here by Monday, 30 June, says IWISA No.1. 

Entrants stand a chance to win cash prizes of up to R20 000 and a new MacBook Pro, with the 20 finalists having their work seen by some of South Africa's most influential creatives, including Clinton Myeni, David Tshabalala and Anet Norval-Ferina. "We want to ensure we maximise entrants' exposure, as well as giving them a chance to be mentored by seasoned professionals who have their own inspiring stories of creative boldness and edginess," adds Mooko. "This is what creating runway revolutions is all about."

"As IWISA No.1, we're committed to investing in youth empowerment, economic participation and our local creative industry. We believe that young South Africans deserve a seat at the table, and their work deserves a place on the shelves. This is our bold invitation and challenge for them to do just that," Mooko concludes. 

For more information, visit www.premierfmcg.com. You can also follow IWISA No.1 on Facebook or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor