What a wonderful opportunity to connect, collaborate, and showcase the work of our hands 🙌🏾
We had the absolute privilege of exhibiting at allfashion sourcing (AFS) 2026, where we connected with fellow creatives, industry leaders, and fashion enthusiasts from across South Africa.
This experience was made even more special as UP_PHELELE was featured among Nedbank‘s beneficiaries. We were proudly hosted by Nedbank through its partnership with Fetola, the organisation that administers the Circular Economy Accelerator (CEA) – a programme we were honoured to graduate from in 2023.
AFS 2026 also marked the official launch of the Nedbank × Fetola Fashion Accelerator Programme, an exciting new programme dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs within South Africa’s fashion and textile industry. As the first initiative of its kind in the country, it represents an important step towards building a stronger and more sustainable fashion ecosystem. You can learn more about the programme HERE.
Over three exciting days, AFS offered a dynamic programme featuring runway showcases, insightful panel discussions, networking opportunities, and meaningful conversations about the future of African fashion.
One of our proudest moments came on Day Two, when our founding fashion designer, Aphelele Chonco, joined an industry panel discussion, where she openly shared her entrepreneurial journey – the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the importance of persevering while pursuing a dream 🙌🏾
Another memorable highlight was attending the Young Designer Competition showcase and winner announcement. Congratulations to every emerging designer who participated. Your creativity, courage, and commitment continue to shape the future of South African fashion, and we wish you every success on your journey.
Beyond the exhibitions and discussions, AFS 2026 reminded us that fashion is built on community. It was wonderful reconnecting with familiar faces, including the incredible production team we’ve worked with through Durban Fashion Fair (DFF), the passionate team from iGoda Incubator, and our friends from Fetola. These moments of connection are what make our industry so special, reminding us that collaboration is one of our greatest strengths!
And of course, no celebration would be complete without ending on a high note! The event concluded with the Celebration of Fashion party, where we embraced the joy of the moment and danced the night away.
Every experience like this reminds us why we do what we do – to create with purpose, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to the growth of South African fashion.
Here’s to new opportunities, meaningful collaborations, and continuing to build a fashion industry where creativity, sustainability, and community thrive together 🥂
Always remember to embrace, celebrate, and Wear Your Uniqueness ♥︎
