LOICE DUBE CROWNED THE AFI FASTRACK YOUNG DESIGNER OF THE YEAR 2023 – Fashion Force Africa Magazine

Loice Dube, the mastermind behind Lo’Ice, takes home the coveted AFI Fastrack Young Designer of the Year 2023 award! Discover her journey and the other rising stars of South African fashion.

Johannesburg, South Africa – June 21, 2024 – A night of immense talent and creativity unfolded at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange as Africa Fashion International (AFI) unveiled the winner of the prestigious AFI Fastrack Prize Young Designer of the Year 2023. The coveted title, along with a prize package valued at R150,000 and mentorship at the AFI Privé Atelier, was awarded to Loice Dube, the powerhouse behind the captivating fashion brand Lo’Ice.

Dube, hailing from Gauteng, impressed the judges with her unique design aesthetic and entrepreneurial spirit. But she wasn’t the only one in the spotlight. The ceremony also recognized outstanding achievements in Craftsmanship and Creativity & Innovation. Eastern Cape’s Thandazani Nofingxana, the creative mind behind ABANTU, received the Craftsmanship award, while Kgotsofalo Monyamate of Articles From Mars (Gauteng) took home the Creativity & Innovation award.

The caliber of finalists presented a significant challenge for the esteemed panel of judges, including fashion luminaries Felipe Mazibuko and Aspasia Karras. Their meticulous evaluation highlighted the exceptional talent nurtured by the AFI Fastrack program.

Adding a touch of glamour to the event was the reigning Miss South Africa, Natasha Joubert, who graced the stage to present the Craftsmanship and Creativity & Innovation awards.

Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Founder and Executive Chair of AFI, expressed her profound admiration for the winner, special prize recipients, and all finalists. She emphasized their remarkable talent and creativity, while extending gratitude to the judges for their invaluable contribution to the success of the AFI Fastrack Prize.

Giacomo Tomassi, AFI’s COO, echoed Dr. Moloi-Motsepe’s sentiment. He emphasized AFI’s evolution from a fashion event company to a leading African fashion powerhouse. Tomassi expressed immense pride in the talent showcased by the finalists, and eagerly anticipated welcoming Dube to the newly established AFI Privé Atelier. This immersive space embodies AFI’s dedication to quality, excellence, and celebrating the essence of “Made in Africa” fashion.

The journey to the winner’s circle began for these seven finalists with a highly competitive selection process. Chosen from a pool of 233 applicants, they embarked on a transformative 12-month experience within the AFI Fastrack fashion incubator program. This program provided them with invaluable tools and guidance, encompassing mentorship, strategic brand positioning, comprehensive business management training, essential networking opportunities, and crucial exposure to the fashion market.

Fashion enthusiasts can now get a sneak peek into the future of South African fashion! Pre-orders for the collections designed by the AFI Fastrack finalists are now open. These exclusive collections will be available for purchase at House of Nala, AFI’s prestigious luxury retail store located in Sandton City.