EAST LONDON – THE Buffalo City Fashion Show made history by setting a new benchmark for how the creative sector can lead disability inclusion in practice, not merely in policy, with their remarkable showcase where deaf and hearing fashion designers shared the same runway as equal contributors within a unified, inclusive presentation.
This year’s show, themed “Celebrating Deaf Designers”, featured former Miss South Africa and proud member of the Deaf Community, Mia Le Roux. Hosted by the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture on 22 November 2025 at the BMW Showrooms in Berea, East London, the event highlighted the department’s commitment to advocating South African Sign Language (SASL), now recognised as one of the official 12 languages, and promoting language access, representation, and equal opportunity for the Deaf Community.
The MEC for the department, Sibulele Ngongo, said the programme speaks to their responsibility to promote inclusion and equality for persons with disabilities.
“The department is working tirelessly to ensure that persons with disabilities actively participate in the economy.”
She said this after a group of deaf designers producing traditional wear from a container-based workspace in Mdantsane was placed in a six-month mentorship and skills development programme led by internationally acclaimed fashion designer Onwaba Mleve of Zazi Holdings.
Beyond the event, the Eastern Cape Provincial Arts and Culture Council (ECPACC) will continue to capacitate the designers with further training in Computer Aided Design (CAD) and facilitate access to high-value markets within the textile and apparel ecosystem.
Fashion designer Kabelo Mokoena of Costa Denim, who also showcased his range, said his collection was inspired by unity and diversity.
“Being a part of this show allowed me to explore my creativity and break boundaries without any limitations, and redefine what true collaboration really looks like.” Mokoena pushed the limits of denim innovation and celebrated the power of working alongside creatives of all abilities.
This special programme coincides with Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), observed from 3 November to 3 December, and highlights the importance of creating inclusive spaces that amplify the voices and artistry of persons with disabilities.
