Excitement is building ahead of the 2025 Durban July, with organisers confirming a packed programme of fashion, music, and horse racing scheduled for Saturday, 5 July at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse.
The annual event, often marketed as “Africa’s Greatest Horse Racing and Fashion Event,” will once again spotlight emerging talent through the Durban July Young Designer Award, presented by Durban Fashion Fair. Ten student designers from KwaZulu-Natal colleges have advanced to the final round after a competitive selection process over the weekend.
Their designs, responding to this year’s “Marvels of Mzansi” theme, drew inspiration from South African landscapes, cuisine, culture, and fashion. Judges evaluated 25 semi-finalists based on creativity, craftsmanship, and thematic interpretation.
“These young designers captured the best essence of the theme,” said Vuyisile Ngobese, one of the judges and public relations officer at the Hollywood Foundation. “Some went as far as manufacturing their own fabric — they really pushed boundaries.”
Ngobese noted the difficulty of narrowing down the field: “We had to balance creative interpretation of the theme with technical execution. It wasn’t easy — sacrifices had to be made.”
Guest judge Sandile ‘Duke’ Mngadi, an invited designer, remarked on the growing standard of entries. “The number of callbacks before we even selected the top 25 shows how much talent is coming through,” he said. Reflecting on his own career path, he added: “I was once a young designer myself — and this developmental stage is crucial for anyone hoping to succeed in the fashion industry.”
The ten finalists are:
Sinekamva Xali (Umgungundlovu TVET College)
Mpilo Sithole (Durban University of Technology)
Nothile Mkhungo (Esayidi Fashion School)
Andile Cele (Umgungundlovu TVET College)
Neliswa Gcwabaza (Umgungundlovu TVET College)
Manqoba Mnguni (Igoda Incubator)
Buhle Sicwebue (Lindiwe Khuzwayo Academy of Fashion)
Irene Price (Esayidi Fashion School)
Queenton Mjweni (Durban University of Technology)
Khethokuhle Thango (Igoda Incubator)
Their collections will be showcased again at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping Gala on 27 June, alongside the Invited Designer Showcase presented by Dove and the DFF Rising Stars Collection.
In a statement, organisers also announced the entertainment lineup for the main event, with live performances from a mix of established and rising South African artists.
Zolani Mahola will open the day with the national anthem, followed by performances from Mafikizolo, Lira, Hot Water, GoodLuck, DJ Dalootz, Lee Cole, and Sunset Sweatshop.
“This year’s Durban July is more than just a race — it’s a full cultural experience,” said Zandile Dlamini, speaking on behalf of the event’s headline sponsor. “We’ve curated an entertainment lineup that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of South African music.”
