The Central University of Technology (CUT) was transformed into a vibrant hub of empowerment and high fashion as the annual Women’s Day Business and Fashion Fest kicked off under the theme, “Breaking Barriers, Building Legacies”
Held to mark South Africa’s Women’s Month, the gathering served as a glamorous preview show for Free State Fashion Week (FSFW), which celebrates its milestone 10th anniversary this year.
In partnership with commercial radio Metro FM, the festival blended high-profile runway showcases with critical business panels and a touch of pink clothing on all guests.
The prestigious event was steered by media entrepreneur Mags Shivanda and radio broadcaster Somizi Mhlongo.
Taking the stage, founder and CEO of FSFW Candy Smith shared her inspiring journey as a self-taught designer from Welkom who launched FSFW in 2016 to give local talent a professional platform.
She says her vision expanded in 2017 with the launch of the Free State Fashion Hub, an accredited training institution that mentors 20 to 30 emerging designers annually and famously took local talent to showcase in New York in 2018.
Smith says FSFW was designed as a sustainable economic engine where regional creatives can transform raw talent into viable commercial enterprises.
She says she is proud to have had every women present and said she feels really thankful for their continuous support in the success of her event.
Beyond the fashion, the festival delivered critical masterclasses on career longevity and digital growth.
Guest speaker and media personality Palesa Chubisi gave a candid address detailing the turbulent ups and downs of the modern media landscape, while SABC General Manager Dr Kina Nhlengenthwa shared insights on how modern entrepreneurs can leverage digital media platforms to scale local businesses.
DJ and radio broadcaster Lamiez Morule also graced the even and motivated women to accept and love their bodies just as they are.
During the program, Shivanda praised the business breakfasts immediate impact on the local economy, saying that her local makeup artist, Gomolemo Meje had secured multiple bookings that morning alone due to the influx of visitors.
“My make-up artist was mentioning this morning how grateful she is for such events because just that morning she had three other bookings before her.
“So I am honoured to be a part of such a wonderful event, I have seen Candy grow in FSFW over the years, it is amazing to witness, she said.
The day commenced with a powerful opening address by Dr B Mkhize from the CUT Hospitality Department who praised the the organisation behind the event and drew comparisons to the biblical figures of Esther and Deborah, challenging attendees to turn personal resilience into lasting historical legacies.
Meanwhile the runway came alive with breathtaking collections from acclaimed brands By Grace and Shirqreates, brought to life by Miss SA Crown Chaser Palesa Van Rooyen and Free Stare influencers including Ernest Mofokeng, Zar Ntseto, Bucie Tlhokwe, Mbulelo Mbira, and Inno Koloba Sebusi.
Speaking to Journal News, runway model Sbongile Mabitle echoed the sentiment of many participants, stating that such professional platforms are important for providing local models with crucial industry exposure.
Model Nandyona Tloome took it straight to the appreciation podium and said, “I am honoured to experience Free State Fashion Week this Women’s Month celebrating the beauty, confidence and creativity of women.
The celebration concluded with a joyful anniversary ceremony featuring a striking black and pink tiered cake to mark a decade of fashion excellence in the Free State.
Guests enjoyed live music sets by musician Presss and gospel singer Puleng Phoofolo, alongside high-energy beats from DJ Amo Afrika.
Closing out the spectacular afternoon, Smith thanked the audience for ten years of unmatched support and officially announced that Free State Fashion Week will take place on 09 October 2026.
