The finalists for the 2025 Twyg Sustainable Fashion Awards are here and they’re redefining what sustainable style looks like in South Africa.
The Twyg Sustainable Fashion Awards are back for 2025, and the finalists have just dropped. Now in their seventh year, the awards spotlight the designers, makers and innovators shaping a more conscious future for African fashion.
This year’s finalists cut across nine categories, from emerging designers and material innovation to retail and trans-seasonal design. All of them reflect Twyg’s core values: local production, circular design, and real social impact.
Jackie May, founder of Twyg, says the work behind these collections deserves more shine: “Every garment, every business, every idea comes with intention and care. These awards help us recognise that.”
The winners will be announced on 27 November 2025 at an event in Cape Town, hosted by writer, fibre artist and fashion historian Khensani Mohlatlole.
Support that drives real change
The 2025 awards come with major backing. Partners include Polo South Africa, Bash, H&M South Africa, Mohair South Africa and Merchants on Long.
Two of the biggest categories come with serious investment:
- Emerging Designer Award (H&M South Africa) — R100 000 prize
- Changemaker Award (Bash) — R100 000 prize
Both are meant to help independent designers grow in a sustainable way.
H&M’s country manager, Caroline Nelson, says supporting these awards matters because “local designers and changemakers are shaping the future of fashion.”
Mohair South Africa adds that the partnership is a chance to champion natural fibres, craft and innovation.
And Merchants on Long says the Pan-African Designer Award reflects the spirit of collaboration and elevated African design.
2025 Finalists
Accessory Award: Earth Age | Changing Facets | Nic&Nic
Emerging Designer Award (H&M): Casbeth | Makhudai | Kleinmuis
Innovative Design and Materials Award (Polo South Africa): Sealand | Ballo | Botanical Nomad
Merchants on Long Pan-African Artisanal Award: WOTE K.I. Design | AAKS | Osei Duro
Retail Award: The Sewing Café | Thrift Fest | Vintage with Love
Student Award: The_Collectn | Carlize van Zyl | The Odd
Tastemaker Award: Innocent Ndlovu | Lethabo ‘Boogy’ Maboi | Yasmin Furmie
Trans-seasonal Design Award: Boyde | Wanda Lephoto | MmusoMaxwell
This year’s jury, appointed until 2027, includes voices from South Africa, Kenya, Germany and the US, bringing together backgrounds in fashion, sustainability, climate, business and design. They are: Martina Glomb, Bee Diamondhead, Idelle Taye, Stella Hertantyo, Silvia Tonui and Bielle Bellingham.
Judging was overseen by John Shija and Elisabeth Makumbi.
The jury did not select finalists for the Farm-to-Fashion Award, noting that none of the nominees met the criteria fully, a move that shows how seriously the awards take integrity and accountability.
Stay tuned to Between 10and5 for the announcement of the winners.
