Recap of African Fashion International (AFI) with Miss South Africa Runner Ups

By Temo Mpodi

It wasn’t just a runway, it was the harvest of the seed that was planted a long time ago. Desires and dreams coming forth and being seen to fruition. When the laides (Miss South Africa to three) are together, you can just see the grace, purity and synchronicity amongst them. Blend that with fashion and beauty, and that’s where African Fashion International (AFI) continued to steer in them this weekend.

It was a fruitful time, to see them walk the runway yet again after the Miss South Africa pageant. Catching up with them felt like a breeze, being under the AFI (African Fashion International) fashion umbrella felt like the right place, with the right people. These are the fashion moments these ladies have dreamt and waited for, and to have been part of this somehow, conversing with them also was spectacular.

When African Fashion International was borne by Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe, the vision was just the same as today, to push African Designers and give them the firm stool whilst helping them to break into the fashion internal cords. After showcasing for House of Fabrosanz by Sandi Mazibuko at The Harvest Table organized by AFI, Luyanda Zuma ( Miss SA First Runner Up) and Karabo Mareka Miss SA Second Runner Up) had this to say about their experience with AFI.

Luyanda Zuma (Miss South Africa First Runner Up)

As somebody who actively champions for creativity this felt like a spot i had to be in, just seeing the beautiful African fashion designers showcasing their beautiful work, in the beautiful Cape Town, one of the most spectacular sceneries in Africa was definitely something to gag and speak about. Witnessing what true African creativity in our beautiful continent can birth, but also as South Africans to come together and unite for me was just absolutely phenomenal.

Being in the entertainment space as an actress, I have seen what this industry can do and bring to the youth. The ramp was filled with the youth, being advocated for. And being showcased on this grand scale. 

Lastly, the food was amazing, the people were warm and welcoming. The whole experience was a 10/10 for me and I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT ONE.

Karabo Mareka (Miss South Africa Second Runner Up)

This was such an amazing experience, I got to be behind the scenes and see how hardworking the team is. I have seen them create the garments from scratch during my journey with Miss South Africa. So, it was just so amazing to see the designs come together, and I am so glad I got to be part of it during the finale. 

I learnt so much about the fashion world, the fashion house and Africa Fashion International. Oh AFI has an amazing team, really humble people, and I am glad I was part of the experience. IT WAS AN AMAZING SHOW…