Share FacebookTwitterPinterestLinkedinWhatsappTelegramEmail 248 When David Tlale decided to drop auditing to study design more than 20 years ago, he was determined to stand out in the crowded fashion industry. Today, it’s hard to speak about South African fashion without mentioning Tlale, or “The King of Fashion”, as he is known. Tlale made his mark as one of the first designers to use fashion to showcase the beauty of African-styled clothes and the quality of African fabrics. Next week, Tlale will be honoured at the fourth annual African Diaspora. Awards for his contribution to the advancement of Africa – joining the likes of Grammy Award-winning singer Angelique Kidjo and Ethiopian supermodel Liya Kebede, who have been honoured at the prestigious event in the past. “This award is very humbling for me,” says Tlale. “Nobody goes into fashion or the arts with the hopes of getting awards, but it’s mind-blowing when you get the recognition.” But with that recognition comes a lot of pressure, he explains. “Getting this award means I have to work even harder to prove I really deserve it. There are so many other people who could have received it.” In the same week, Tlale will also be honoured with the African Icon of Hope Award during the African Fashion Design Week in Nigeria, but will send a representative to accept the award on his behalf. “This award means a lot for me because it speaks directly to what I have always wanted to do well on my continent. As a young person who decided to leave a career in auditing for fashion it wasn’t easy convincing the people around me to believe in me. I’m glad I can now be an inspiration to young people and show them a career in fashion is possible if you are willing to work hard – no matter where you come from.” After a decade in the fashion industry, Tlale believes his journey as a “fashion designer with influence” is only just beginning. “The David Tlale brand is finally being recognised for what it is: a symbol of hard work, determination and, of course, luxury.” Source: citizen.co.za african diasporaafrican fashionDavid Tlaledesignerfashion awardsfashion industrySouth Africa Share FacebookTwitterPinterestLinkedinWhatsappTelegramEmail Ben I think fashion in Africa is about to explode and I am excited to be a part of it. Message me anytime. More For You VIDEO: Watch The Moment Miss Grand Ghana 2024 Won Best Evening Gown VIDEOS: Watch Davido Kingly Strutt Down The Lagos Fashion Week 2024 Runway Showing... Jewelry Trends We’ve Been Seeing for Winter #OOTD: Floral Grandeur To Die For! Nigerian Brand O’MAAN Studio’s Statement Petal Suit... BRICS Banknote Unveiled In Kazan Russia & How Accra Fashion Week’s Involvement Can... PICS: Black Sherif Switches Up To Post-Apocalyptic Fashion For His Upcoming Single ‘REBEL... VIDEO: Watch The Iconic Moment Where Miss Grand France 2024 Safietou Kabengele Removed... STG Designs Drops Stunning AI Visuals Of Stylishly Elegant African Woman & Their... #fGSTYLE: African Women Are Showing The World How Haute Kaftans Can Be &... #OOTD: Ghanaian RTW Brand Awula By Aaley Drops A Must Have Summer Bomb...