SAFA Best Emerging Fashion Designer nominee Thakazelwa Mhlomi pays homage to women who raised her

Thakazelwa Mhlomi, designer and creative director of Msaba Emporium, was nominated for Best Emerging Fashion Designer at the South African Fashion Awards on 3 October 2026.

Mhlomi wore her own designs to both honour the nomination and pay homage to the women who inspired her to the point of her career.

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“Art is a way of life”

Mhlomi first shared what inspired her red-carpet look. The blue V-neckline dress with crochet weaving at the waistline and purple sequin accents was a beautiful hand-stitched look she said was a homage to the woman who raised her.

“I was raised by women who believed that art was a way of life, who did basket weaving and crocheting. They made me realise that art is not just a hobby; it’s a way of life,” she explained as she reflected on the moments that taught her that art can also be a way to put food on the table.

Don’t limit where you come from

The emerging designer shared that this nomination is a sign not to limit where you come from.

“You just have to start where you can,” she explained, noting that you don’t need a fancy head start in life to at the very least be recognised for your talents and skills.

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What fashion means to Thakazelwa Mhlomi

Mhlomi reflected on the aspirational parts of her career, when fashion design as a career was still a dream. She shared that when she was still naive, fashion meant fun.

Yet, when she got older, she understood that fashion could be a pursuable career, and that there’s more to fashion design than just making a garment.

Something new… maybe?

When asked if there is something new cooking, the designer alluded to there being a new line coming.

“The new line for me means being secure,” stating that she is now secure as an artist. Without sharing much about the new line, she said fans of the brand can expect “art as a way of life.”

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