It's official! Lukhanyo Mdingi, the brilliant Cape Town-based designer, has claimed the title of the 2023 AMIRI Prize winner. The announcement made by AMIRI brought joy and recognition to South Africa's burgeoning fashion scene.
A Notable Achievement
From nine standout finalists, Lukhanyo's vision and dedication to local craftsmanship positioned him at the forefront. The jury, led by AMIRI's founder, Mike Amiri, along with an esteemed panel of visionaries from the fashion world, saw something unique in Lukhanyo's work.
A Nod to Local Artisanship
Lukhanyo Mdingi isn't just a brand name; it's a movement that started in 2015. Born in 1992, Lukhanyo's commitment to integrating local artisanal know-how into his designs sets him apart. His brand, rooted in South African culture, skill, and expertise, has garnered international attention, emphasizing the importance of local community and their indomitable spirit.
In Lukhanyo's words, “We're incredibly thankful to the AMIRI Prize... we look forward to receiving the fundamental guidance needed to steadily grow our Independent Business & Vision."
Mike Amiri added, “This year's talent was exceptional... Lukhanyo’s vision and approach stood out to all of us. His recent collections have seen him fine-tune a singular aesthetic and sensibility, but just as commendable is the purpose behind what he does."
About The AMIRI Prize
The AMIRI Prize has rapidly become a beacon of hope for young fashion enthusiasts since its inception in 2021. Founded by Mike Amiri, the prize aims to foster inclusivity in the fashion world, bringing to the limelight the unsung heroes from fashion and its related domains.
This year marked a special chapter as the prize embraced global talents, witnessing nearly 1,000 applications from around the world. Beyond the monetary reward, winners are gifted with the invaluable mentorship of Mike Amiri, granting them insights and exposure to the expansive AMIRI infrastructure.
AMIRI extended its gratitude to all the finalists and panel members, including notable names like Abdel El Tayeb, Dorian Who, Ekwerike Chukwuma, and more, for their dedication and invaluable contributions to the fashion industry.