Twenty-six-year-old Kentse Masilo has emerged the first winner of Project Runway South Africa season one!
Project Runway is a premiere fashion contest which focuses on harnessing the skills of aspiring fashion designers by putting their skill set to the ultimate test. For its first season, 12 aspiring fashion designers lived together for a period of six weeks, and in the end, Kentse Masilo won the overall challenge.
While expressing her gratitude on Instagram, she said;
Words can’t describe how I feel right now. @projectrunwaysa first winner, I am so honoured to have been trusted with such a huge responsibility. This opportunity means the world to me , my family and my community which I am very passionate about.
When I talk of taking Africa to space, I’m talking about reawakening what we as Africans have always had and our ability to create beyond our limits. I thank and respect the designers and all the game changers that come before me… looking forward to sharing this with you.
Kentse is an inspiration to the next set of Project Runway contestants, she opened up about what drives her and also speaks on how she never doubts herself. Read excerpts below:
What went through your mind when you found out you had been selected for Project Runway South Africa?
I was so overwhelmed and excited, I had been waiting for a break like this for months.
Tell us something about yourself that people don’t know?
I am very ambitious, perhaps too ambitious at times, but I never doubt myself and I have a great sense of humor.
What was the first thing you ever made?
I always crack up when I think about my first garment, it was a dress I hand-stitched. I’m not sure if it even had a front and a back.
Tell us about your journey in fashion design?
Pursuing a career in design isn’t for the faint-hearted, my journey has been a remarkable one. If it wasn’t for my resilience and supportive family I wouldn’t be here, trust your struggle.
Why did you decide to enter Project Runway South Africa?
I got tired of hearing about my potential, I wanted me now, I took charge of my life and focused on what made me sane.
What informs your approach to design?
Futurism and an African motif, culture, and people.
Where do you think fashion is at the moment?
There is no prescribed way of doing fashion, the world is informed and there is definitely no time for mediocrity.
What are your favourite materials to work with?
Wool, cotton, and chino.
Kentse has proven beyond doubt that she is fit to present Africa in the upcoming fashion week in Paris. her eccentric designs are properly tailored and detailed.
See the full interview on Project Runway and watch the video below.
Photo Credit: Instagram | @bespoke_kentse