BACKGROUND

MZANSI DESIGNERS’ Institute is the brainchild of a group of Black South African Fashion Designers who are concerned by the plight of the fashion industry in South Africa, particularly the lack of development and empowerment opportunities for young Black South African Designers. The company is incorporated under Section 21 and has the ambitious goal of offering a unique programme aimed at empowering SA Designers to fulfill their rightful place, not only in the SA Fashion Industry, but in the international arena as well.The company was launched in January 2005 and opened its doors in February2005 an is currently helping 09 (Nine) Fledging  and 04 (Four) Semi established Designers to heighten their career and launch their brands. The uniqueness of Mzansi Designer Institute lies in its holistic approach to addressing the problems facing fledgling entrepreneurs. Elements essential to the development of sustainable entrepreneurship are tackled simultaneously through:

  1. Technical skills training
  2. Business management training
  3. Motivational programmes and self esteem building programmes
  4. Creation of role models
  5. Comprehensive support structures which include access to equipment, sample studio assistance with marketing, product development and design, procurement, advice and counselling services
  6. The emphasis on the production of quality products capable of competing on the international markets
  

VISION AND MISSION STATEMENT OF MZANSI DESIGNERS:

   Vision   

We aim to lead African Fashion into a new era. Creating a “home grown” look, with international appeal.  Creating platform's for young designers- mostly from previously disadvantaged background’s, by providing them the opportunity to use their creative skills to interpret and express the modern day of South African youth culture and lifestyles through fashion.

Mission Statement

The main mission of MZANSI DESIGNERS INSTITUTE is to present development and training programmes capable of creating a sustainable and vibrant FASHION and DESIGN INDUSTRY for emerging designers.