04 Dec The Big Night: Local Talent Lights Up the Runway

Last Thursday, South African fashion had its ultimate moment of slay at The Station Newtown. The 2024 Local Fashion Police (LFP) campaign finale wasn’t just an event—it was the event. Think jaw-dropping designs and a celebration of the freshest local talent in the game.

From the moment you stepped in, the energy was electric. Hundreds of hopefuls entered the LFP competition, but only four were crowned victorious: Boogy Maboi, Welcome Moyo, Nokukhanya Shandu, and Kamogelo Machaba. These stars of the runway didn’t just win—they owned it, walking in custom creations by their celeb judges, including Orapeleng Modutle and Jessica Jane Molebatsi. Oh, and as if the prestige wasn’t enough, each winner walked away with R40,000 worth of bespoke designs. Goals much?

Stars, Style, and Music

Let’s talk vibes. Sjava, Wanda Baloyi, Sophie Ndaba, and every cool kid on South Africa’s fashion scene were there to soak up the glam. But it wasn’t just about sitting pretty—the iconic Boom Shaka hit the stage with a performance that got everybody on the dance floor. And for the OG fashion lovers? A surprise alumni fashion showcase had the crowd going wild, proving once again that the LFP campaign is more than a competition—it’s a launchpad for greatness.

The Most Iconic Jail Cell Ever?

One of the night’s cheekiest highlights was the Trellidor Local Fashion Police jail. Didn’t pull up in a locally made ‘fit? No stress—straight to jail you went! But this wasn’t just for laughs. Guests in the “cell” made public pledges to shop local, blending fun with a meaningful call to action. Plus, this “jail” doubled as the hottest photobooth of the night, giving attendees main character energy while spreading the campaign’s mission: Buy Local to Create Jobs.

Proudly South African: Fashion With Purpose

The brains behind the LFP campaign, Proudly South African, had a clear message: local fashion is more than just a hashtag—it’s an economic powerhouse. Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi, Chief Marketing Officer of Proudly SA, said it best:

“Local fashion isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement. Every piece of clothing we support drives job creation and economic empowerment.”

And with FNB’s backing, the campaign is making serious moves to uplift young creatives. Janis Robson of FNB summed it up:

“Empowering entrepreneurs in the fashion industry is key to solving youth unemployment and creating sustainable businesses that inspire globally.”

Why It Matters

South Africa’s youth are at the heart of this movement. Every stitch, every purchase, and every pledge strengthens local value chains, giving the next generation of designers a platform to shine. The 2024 LFP finale wasn’t just a fashion show—it was a testament to what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.

Get Involved

Missed it? Don’t worry—you can still join the convo online using #LocalFashionPolice2024, #BuyLocalToCreateJobs, and #FNBSupportsLocal.

So, whether you’re rocking a bespoke gown or your fave locally made kicks, remember: when you support South African fashion, you’re making more than a style statement—you’re shaping the future.