Share This Article
Woolworths has collaborated with fashion designer and winner of the 2024 Youth Makers competition, Sibusiso Mokhachane in launching a modern Heritage Day fashion capsule for women, men and kids. Introduced as “An Ode to W E”, the capsule is a bold expression of identity, unity and cultural celebration. With vivid prints, modern silhouettes and intricate pattern work, inspired by South African traditions, the collection explores what it means to belong in a country defined by diversity and togetherness.
For Mokhachane, the work goes far beyond aesthetics. “The reality on the ground inspired the theme,” he explains. “I’m a very present observer, I absorb space and time. I travel a lot for business, research and content creation. Through this, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the way South Africans co-exist. I read the energy in the rooms I enter and the spaces I pass through. I’m constantly inspired by the social cohesion I see happening, quietly but powerfully, every day. An Ode to W E is a visual poem of celebrating WE and an acknowledgement of I AM BECAUSE YOU ARE.”
The collection’s patterns are drawn from our visual languages – cultures, races, religions and the country’s most iconic landmarks. “The messaging behind the design is social cohesion, encouraging unity and collaboration among the people,” says Mokhachane. “We are already collaborating on the ground and won’t be divided by politics. There’s a lot of work that needs to be done. What brings me joy is to see the work begin with people on the ground.”
Looking to the future, Mokhachane finds his greatest inspiration in the next generation. “It is in our hands to plant the trees of the future, look at the kids and see the future of S.A., let’s celebrate who we already are. We must be proactive citizens of the country, contribute to enhancing the spaces we occupy, play our part and appreciate our differences in acknowledging that diversity is the greatest thing we have.”
The “An Ode to W E” Heritage capsule will be available in selected Woolworths stores and online atwoolworths.co.za from early September 2025.