23 Apr 2019

Two fashion design experts held a two-day workshop in Maun to drill local designers in an effort to unearth modelling and fashion design talent in the country, courtesy of Mascom.

The facilitators were designer Mothusi Lesole and South African based fashion model, Thabang Mmolotsi, who is experienced in multiple disciplines in the modelling industry. The duo trained and shared knowledge of the fashion industry in collaboration with ‘Fashion without Borders.’

Twenty models were selected from the workshop to showcase their talent during the annual Mascom Derby.

The fashion show component was added last year and it had proven to be a success hence designers were given another opportunity this year.

This year, the fashion show was part of the biggest horse racing competition in Botswana, and it featured 10 designers who showcased their garments.

Mascom acting chief executive officer, Dzene Makhwade-Seboni said the event was getting bigger every year, noting that initially they focused on the horse race but they found it fit to focus on other areas which could contribute to the economy.

She said they reviewed the horse race annually to establish what they could add differently, and that they realised that the fashion show was ideal as it could give designers an exposure. She said the designers would have an opportunity to interact with customers and market their products.

Makhwade-Seboni also noted that they had added art and culture and that pencil artists were given an opportunity to compete.

The Live Art competition was hosted by Tsena, Botswana Online, the country’s first ever online community portal during the race.

Five artists from Maun and surrounding areas participated in the activity, as they were tasked to re-draw an action picture from one of the previous Mascom Derby events in Tsena’s archives.

The online community portal was aimed at re-telling Botswana stories and making information sharing easier. It also showcased the abundant talent in the Ngami area and give art and Botswana artists the deserved and desired platform to shine in the world.

Makhwade-Seboni thanked designers and models for coming on board and making the event remarkable. The theme of the fashion show was: All things safari, and it was inspired by the wildlife, fauna and flora found in Maun, the heart of tourism in Botswana. ENDS