The Twyg Sustainable Fashion Awards took place on 27 November 2025, at Church House in Cape Town. Now in its seventh year, the event celebrated designers and makers who continue to push African fashion towards more ethical and circular futures. The awards recognise talent from South Africa and across the continent.
The 2025 Changemaker Award went to Wanda Lephoto, presented by Bash, who received R100 000. The Emerging Designer Award, presented by H&M South Africa, was awarded to Aidan Peters of Klein Muis, who also received R100 000.
Twyg also launched a new online directory showcasing seven years of finalists and winners. The platform highlights African designers working in sustainable clothing, textiles, and accessories.
This year’s jury brought together voices from Germany, Kenya, the United States, and South Africa: Martina Glomb, Bee Diamondhead, Idelle Taye, Stella Hertantyo, Silvia Tonui, and Bielle Bellingham. The adjudication was led by John Shija and Elisabeth Makumbi.
The 2025 winners and finalists are:
Accessory Award
Winner: Earth Age
Finalists: Changing Facets, Nic&Nic
Emerging Designer Award presented by H&M South Africa
Winner: Klein Muis
Finalists: Casbeth, Makhudai
Innovative Design and Materials Award presented by Polo South Africa
Winner: Ballo
Finalists: Sealand, Botanical Nomad
Trans-seasonal Design Award
Winner: Wanda Lephoto
Finalists: Boyde, MmusoMaxwell
Merchants on Long Pan-African Artisanal Award
Winner: WOTE K.I Design
Finalists: AAKS, Reform Studio
Tastemaker Award
Winner: Innocent Ndlovu
Finalists: Lethabo “Boogy” Maboi, Yasmin Furmie
Student Award
Winner: The_Collectn
Finalists: Carlize van Zyl, The Odd
Retail Award
Winner: Thrift Fest
Finalists: The Sewing Café, Vintage with Love
The event was hosted by writer, fibre artist, and fashion historian Khensani Mohlatlole.
Twyg, a Cape Town–based non-profit media platform, continues to document and support sustainable fashion in Africa through storytelling, education, and community-building. Their work centres circularity, fairness, and responsibility.
Image credits: Ben Mall
