12 May 2024

Three designers: two Batswana and a South African are set to participate in the internship  programme at the Mr Price Group headquarters in Durban, courtesy of Fashion Without Boarders (FWB).

The two Batswana are Mboko Basiami of Glotto Designers and Lerang Keabile of La-Letsatsi as well as South Africa’s Sibu Sithole, of FDB Human Store.

They were selected  during the company’s ninth annual event in Gaborone last year and are expected to attend the internship that will last for three weeks starting from May 12 to June 1.

Fashion Without Boarders Executive Director, Serge Kabisoso said in an interview that the initiative was part of the FWB’s efforts to develop young talent in fashion by providing them with hands on experience and exposure to various aspects of the fashion business, including retail and manufacturing.

“By fostering talent and encouraging entrepreneurship, FWB aims to contribute to the growth of the fashion landscape in Botswana and beyond,” he said.

Selling Africa both local and internationally, he observed, was crucial for the industry’s growth, noting FWB recognised the importance of showcasing African designs and pushing them to the forefront of the global market.

He explained that the internship programme usually starts between April and May every year, hence no delays with placement.

Mboko of Glotto Designers said in appreciation that FWB had great impact in Botswana’s fashion industry in terms of setting the standards and helping designers to know the needs of customers.

“It’s great.  I love how they always push the youth and I am happy to be part of this mentorship,” she said.

Mboko said the selection would impact her life in a positive way, especially that she was looking to upscale Glotto’s production to mass production.

For her part, Keabile of La-Letsatsi Company also said the internship was a beautiful and wonderful opportunity for fashion designers.

She perceived the selection would bring growth, understanding and exposure to her as an upcoming fashion and textile designer.

“It will give us an opportunity to learn and be able to share the knowledge with other aspiring designers,” she said. ENDS