“Success in this industry demands more than just talent, it requires resilience, continuous learning…”
South African designer Tshegofatso Chanda, founder of Lizah Chanda Crochet, is set to make her debut at Paris Fashion Week, marking a significant milestone in her remarkable journey from a small village to the world’s fashion capital.
The highly anticipated event will be held at Hotel Le Paris, a fitting venue for Chanda’s bold and unique designs.
Chanda’s path to success began in Magoegoe Tlhabologo, Mahikeng, where she first discovered her passion for fashion at age 10. Inspired by her mother, a self-taught seamstress, Chanda’s creative journey took her through architecture before she found her true calling in fashion design.
In an exclusive interview with SA POSITIVE NEWS Chanda reflects:
“Success in this industry demands more than just talent, it requires resilience, continuous learning, and the ability to navigate both the creative and business aspects of fashion.”
Her breakthrough came with a showcase at The White Show in Milan in 2023, which catapulted her unique blend of traditional African craftsmanship and modern design onto the global stage. This success paved the way for her upcoming presentation at Paris Fashion Week, where she is set to introduce her latest collection, Threads of Freedom.
The collection celebrates South Africa’s 30 years of democracy while also presenting her personal journey of self-discovery.
“I’m beyond excited to share Threads of Freedom with the world. It’s a very personal collection that symbolizes my growth as both a designer and an individual,” Chanda reveals.
Chanda emphasizes the importance of sustainability and cultural representation in her work. “My designs are a celebration of African heritage, meticulously crafted to tell stories and express our rich culture,” she says.
This incredible achievement would not have been possible without the support of key partners. Chanda extends her heartfelt gratitude to the Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation for their unwavering support in helping her reach this milestone. “Their belief in me and my work has made all the difference,” Chanda acknowledges.
Looking ahead, Chanda aims to expand her brand globally while staying true to her roots. “This is just the beginning,” she declares. “I want to create more opportunities for African designers and showcase our work on the world stage.”
Tshegofatso Chanda’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring designers, proving that with perseverance, creativity, and dedication, it’s possible to rise from a small village to the pinnacle of global fashion.
By Sinenzolo Mondi
