By Lebone Rodah Mosima
Twenty-five aspiring models are undergoing training ahead of their runway debut at the 15th edition of the Durban Fashion Fair (DFF).
The DFF has grown considerably since its early years. In 2012, it broke away from the Durban Business Fair as a standalone event at the Durban Exhibition Centre, with four runway shows and a business workshop aimed at giving emerging designers access to the industry and markets.
The event has since grown beyond a showcase for Durban designers. At least 60 designers and DFF mentees featured at the 2025 edition, alongside designers from Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana.
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This year’s DFF will be held from 16 to 18 September 2026 at the Durban Exhibition Centre under the theme “Where Legacy Lives”.
eThekwini Municipality said on Wednesday that the model bootcamp began on 15 August at the Gooderson Tropicana Hotel in Durban and is preparing participants for their debut at the fashion showcase.
“Participants comprising a diverse group of female and male models were scouted and selected through the 2026 Regional DFF Model Search roadshows held across eThekwini earlier this year, with the search concluding in June,” the municipality said.
“The programme covers runway technique, model etiquette, confidence building, media coaching, social media marketing, personal brand positioning and professional industry readiness, equipping emerging talent with the practical skills needed to pursue sustainable careers in fashion.”
The trainees are expected to model collections by emerging and established designers at the event.
City Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson Councillor Thembo Ntuli said the DFF was intended to provide a pathway between talent discovery, training and access to the industry.
“Our investment in these young models supports confidence, entrepreneurship, and access to opportunities within the fashion value chain,” Ntuli said.
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“As we celebrate 15 years of DFF, we are proud to introduce a new generation of talent while creating opportunities for them to build sustainable careers.”
The municipality pointed to former DFF Model Search participant Cynthia Gumede as an example of a model who had progressed through the programme.
Gumede, who was part of the 2025 cohort, is currently in Vietnam, where the municipality said she is participating in the Vietnam Beauty Fashion Fest.
According to the City, the international opportunity followed her appearance at last year’s DFF showcase, where her talent was noticed by international industry representatives.
Gumede said the programme had helped build her confidence and provided exposure to the fashion industry.
“Since participating in the programme, I have worked with recognised brands such as Tropika, collaborated with fashion designers, and featured in major fashion shows,” she said.
“I am grateful to eThekwini Municipality for investing in young talent and creating platforms that continue to open doors, including international opportunities.”
