Special Honours
Two Special Honours celebrated significant achievements within the sector:
Fashion Entrepreneurship Award: Thatiso Dube, awarded by Deputy Minister Peace Mabe
Modelling Industry Legacy Award: Joani Johnson, recognized for over twenty years of influence in South Africa’s modelling sector
A celebration of South African style
“Congratulations to every winner and nominee. South African fashion is creative, entrepreneurial and ready for the world stage, and the public came out in force to vote for the talent they believe in. Thank you to the Honourable Deputy Minister, our partners and everyone who made the night possible,” said Jordan Kensington, Global Director of the World Fashion Awards.
The evening also included a panel discussion featuring industry leaders discussing the future of South African fashion, with Lauren Burmeister (Mentos South Africa), Mbulelo Mashilo (L’OR Espresso South Africa), Renee New (TFG), and Jeannine van Straaten (Proudly South African).
Partners: SAFA 2026 was supported by L’OR Espresso South Africa, Mentos South Africa, Black Crown, and Madepossible.ai. The event was organized in collaboration with the World Fashion Awards Group, Republic Africa, and Republic Worldwide Group.
Watch the ceremony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmmUfovCA8c
Photos: https://safashionawards.co.za/media-gallery/2026 (credit: SAFA 2026)
