Malandiswe Msani from KwaMakhutha Township is already carving out a future in the fashion industry driven by resilience, creativity, and ambition. She obtained her Diploma in Fashion Design at Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation ceremony, held at the Olive Convention Centre on Thursday, 21 May 2026.
Currently, she is completing a learnership at MDD Fabrics through ATASA, where she is gaining hands-on experience in pattern making.
“Being a designer is not easy, but pattern making has really grown on me,” she said.
For Malandiswe obtaining her undergraduate qualification was only the beginning. Her ultimate dream is to build a globally recognised luxury fashion brand, host major fashion shows, and establish herself as a respected fashion guru within the industry.
She also hopes to continue and honour her mother’s fashion legacy, a vision that remains deeply personal and motivating.
Reflecting on her university journey, she described it as “a wild ride with ups, downs, and everything in between.” She said every challenge and triumph contributed to shaping the person she has become today.
“There were days I hit rock bottom and wanted to throw in the towel, but I pushed on because quitting meant I would never know what the future held,” she shared.
Throughout her studies, Malandiswe discovered that success at university extends far beyond academics. She learned that resilience, determination, and grit are equally important when navigating the pressures of student life and the demanding world of fashion.
“My university journey taught me to embrace the chaos, learn from failures, and celebrate the wins,” she explained.
Despite moments of intense academic pressure, Malandiswe remained committed to her goals. She openly shared that she sought therapy to help cope with the stress of balancing coursework and personal challenges, a decision that strengthened her emotionally and mentally.
Looking ahead, she is considering pursuing further studies despite the demanding nature of her qualification, determined to continue growing her knowledge and expertise in fashion.
To first-year students entering university, Malandiswe offers simple but powerful encouragement: “Give it your all. Those designs can become reality if you put in the work.”
Pictured: Aspiring fashion designer, Malandiswe Msani.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Simangele Zuma
