Fezile Mdletshe

What does your company do?

Fezile Fashion Skills Academy is a specialised vocational training institution focused on developing practical skills in fashion design and garment construction. The academy offers accredited programmes that equip students with hands-on experience in sewing, pattern making, tailoring, and fashion illustration. Beyond technical training, FFSA places strong emphasis on empowering women and youth, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds, by promoting self-reliance through skills development. The academy also facilitates work-integrated learning opportunities to ensure students gain real industry exposure and are better prepared for employment or entrepreneurship within the clothing and textile sector. FFSA’s mission is to bridge the gap between raw talent and industry readiness by nurturing creativity, professionalism, and business acumen.

What is your biggest success?

Fezile Fashion Skills Academy's biggest success has been the graduation of our first Diploma class. This achievement was a significant milestone for both the academy and our students, as it marked the successful completion of our rigorous training programs. It was not only a moment of academic triumph but also a reflection of the academy's commitment to providing Beyond the classroom, the success of our graduates has been a testament to the effectiveness of our training approach. Many of our former students have gone on to achieve notable accomplishments in the fashion industry, which reinforces the value and impact of the work we do at FFSA. Their success stories serve as proof that our mission to empower aspiring designers with the necessary skills for a successful career is resonating and producing tangible results. high-quality, hands-on fashion education.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

The biggest learning curve Fezile Fashion Skills Academy has faced has been managing financial cash flow and ensuring effective communication between our operations and industry partners. As a growing institution, maintaining consistent funding to support our programs, materials, and student needs has been a challenge, particularly when working with students from disadvantaged backgrounds who often require financial assistance. Additionally, fostering strong communication between our internal operations and the fashion industry is essential for providing students with relevant, real-world training. Building and maintaining relationships with industry professionals for work placements, internships, and job opportunities is an ongoing process that requires careful coordination. Navigating these challenges while upholding the academy’s high educational standards continues to be a valuable learning experience, helping us refine and enhance our approach to both education and industry collaboration.