Pinehas K Pinehas

Fashion design students at the College of the Arts (COTA) are demonstrating remarkable dedication, as they spend their leisure time perfecting their craft at the design studio on the Katutura campus.

As the year draws to a close, the passion and motivation displayed by these students in the COTA fashion department highlight their drive to refine their skills, and prepare for a promising future in the fashion industry. 

Their consistent commitment is a testament to the talent and potential emerging from this institution, positioning COTA as a significant contributor to the growing fashion industry.

Acting head of the department of arts and design Helena Hangula, who is also a well-renowned fashion designer in the Namibian fashion industry, said the college places a strong emphasis on industry relevance, guiding students to research current trends, including social and political issues into their designs.

 “They have to research what the trending colours are, what’s happening in society and politics. And then, of course, they can use that to come up with a concept, or some might dive into already-existing concepts but try to make them their own,” she stated.

Some students could be seen as hard at work when VIBEZ! visited the campus.

 They were busy conceptualising and stitching their designs. 

The budding designers shared their experience in the fashion industry in this early stage of their careers, as they had the chance to showcase their garments at several fashion shows, including the Katutura Fashion Week, Windhoek Fashion Week, COTA Fashion Show as well as at the City of Windhoek Recycled Material Fashion Show. 

Second-year student Bertha Daniel found the experience to be enjoyable and rewarding.

“So, we had a lot of fun in the process. We had to showcase our talents, ideas and creativity. As a fashion student, it is actually good, as we get to meet people from diverse cultural backgrounds. It is just fun,” she said. Hangula encourages aspiring designers to pursue their passion, highlighting the potential for success and the positive impact the COTA has on the Namibian fashion industry. 

“We give them opportunities. The Khomas Regional Council offers equipment to the students, and so does the Ministry of Trade and Industry. 

We share this detailed information with our students and graduates as a means to grow within their sector,” she added.

-kandiwapapinehas754@gmail.com