South Africa Fashion Awards 2025 Honourees: Celebrating Legacy & Cultural Impact
David Tlale, born in 1975 in Vosloorus, began his design journey after transitioning from a lecturing role at Vaal University of Technology to fashion in the early 2000s. His break came in 2003 when he won first place in Elle South African Fashion Week’s New Talent competition, launching his eponymous brand.
Over the past two decades, Tlale has become one of the continent’s most celebrated designers, showcasing his bold, theatrical creations at global fashion capitals including New York and Paris Fashion Week.
Beyond the runway, he’s invested in the next generation through initiatives like “The Intern by David Tlale”, launched in 2012 to mentor emerging designers.
By honouring David Tlale with a Lifetime Achievement Award, SAFA recognizes not just his creative brilliance but his enduring influence in building South Africa’s fashion identity globally.