The Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards in partnership with Brand SA, will honour SA’s renowned fashion designer, Thebe Magugu at this year’s YOBAs ceremony, set to take place on 22 June in Sandton. For the first time in 3 years, the YOBAs will be introducing a special award that aims to celebrate and honour local youth-owned brands that are excelling in their fields and challenge the status-quo.
“As Brand South Africa, we are delighted to partner with the YOBAs as they celebrate and put a spotlight on initiatives driven by young people, particularly entrepreneurs who are created solutions to address the country’s social and economic challenges, as well as create the much-needed jobs for other young people”.
Embracing South African heritage, the YOBAs’ mission is to recognize Thebe for the work that he does and his contributions in the fashion industry, not only in South Africa but globally.
Thebe Magugu, hailing from Kimberley, South Africa, has gained global acclaim for his fashion label, which beautifully blends traditional South African craftsmanship with modern styles.
One of his recent collections, named LOBOLA, has garnered particular attention. This collection is celebrated for its bold reinterpretation of traditional South African wedding customs, showcasing intricate beadwork and vibrant fabrics that tell stories of cultural pride and identity.
Thebe’s accolades include winning the prestigious LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers in 2019, making him the first African to be awarded the prize.
In addition to his collections, Thebe Magugu has collaborated with global brands like Adidas, bringing his unique South African perspective to a wider audience. The collaboration with Adidas has been celebrated for merging high fashion with sportswear, reflecting Thebe’s versatility and creativity.
The partnership between the YOBAs and Brand South Africa highlights a shared commitment to celebrating South African excellence on a global stage. Brand SA shines as an organization that is dedicated to promoting the positive image of South Africa globally. The partnership with the YOBAs aim to celebrate and honour Thebe as a cultural ambassador whose work not only showcases South African heritage but also bridges cultural gaps through fashion innovation.
“We are excited to introduce this special award. We are also thrilled that our first recipient will be Thebe Magugu. Ours is to say we see him; we see his work and contributions and we would like honour him and his brand’s excellence. His designs not only reflect our heritage but also push boundaries in the fashion world,” says Pat Mahlangu, founder of the YOBAs.
The YOBAs will take place on the 22nd of June 2024 at The Capital on The Park, 101 Katherine Str. Sandown, Sandton. The public is encouraged to attend by booking their seats here.
For more information on the YOBAs please and this year's finalists, visit, www.top16yoba.africa