From student dreams to runway ambitions: Local Fashion Police inspires tomorrow’s talent

Johannesburg masterclass connects students with fashion industry experts, as competition entries close on Monday, 12 October.

Behind every standout outfit is someone who once dreamed of making it. For students attending Proudly South African’s Johannesburg Local Fashion Police masterclass on 2 October, a day with established designers and industry experts offered inspiration for where their own talent could take them.

Local Fashion Police combines a celebration of locally made fashion with practical support for emerging talent. Hosted in partnership with the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), the masterclass brought students into the conversation through a panel discussion, shared experiences and advice on finding their feet in the fashion industry.

Following stops in Durban and Cape Town, the Johannesburg session explored the business behind the creativity, including retail readiness, branding and accessing markets. It gave young creatives an opportunity to learn from experienced industry voices about what it takes to turn their talent into a fashion business.

“South Africa has no shortage of creative talent. These masterclasses give young people a chance to learn from designers who have walked the path they hope to follow. When we pair that encouragement with consumers choosing locally made fashion, we help create opportunities for the next generation,” says Eustace Mashimbye, CEO of Proudly South African.

There is still time for fashion lovers to show their support through the Local Fashion Police competition.

This year’s designer judges are Mpumelelo “Lele” Dhlamini of Ezokhetho, Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana of Thabo Makhetha, Anel Botha, and Rivaldo Louw of By Waldo.

Entries close at 23:59 on Monday, 12 October 2026. To enter, post a photograph or video of yourself wearing your favourite locally made outfit on Facebook, X, TikTok or Instagram. Show that the garment was made locally, ideally by including its “Made in South Africa” label. Follow and tag Proudly South African and FP & M SETA, tag the designer, manufacturer or retailer behind your outfit, and include #LocalFashionPolice2026 and #LovedHereMadeHere.

Four lucky winners will each receive R50 000 worth of fashion from a Local Fashion Police designer. The campaign culminates in a grand finale on 19 November 2026, where the winners will walk the runway in creations by the designer judges.

That favourite locally made outfit in your wardrobe could be the start of your own runway moment, while giving the people who made it a moment in the spotlight too.

For full entry requirements and competition terms and conditions, visit: https://proudlysa.co.za/local-fashion-police-2026-ts-cs/