Fashion: #BeTheCreator Showcase with Lenovo, Somizi and Villioti
When two mutually exclusive worlds intertwine, it is bound to be magical. In this case, two mutually exclusive industries – that of technology and fashion – collided to create artworks that break boundaries in both fields.
In celebration of innovation and the limitless potential of our country’s youth, the Yogi9i 2-in-1 device was recently launched. It was inspired by hundreds of thousands of fashion students around the country. In addition, the #BeTheCreator campaign also took shape, supporting these students’ dreams and aspirations.
#BeTheCreator Of Your Future
Lenovo South Africa recently collaborated with South African personality, Somizi Mhlongo and the Villioti Fashion Institute. Together, they launched a campaign known as #BeTheCreator – an initiative aiming to support and empower both creators and designers. Ultimately, the campaign provides these individuals with the tools required to bring their ideas to life. It called for entries from the fashion for design industries, urging those entering to embrace innovation and technology. Entrants were asked to design forward-thinking clothes, using the Lenovo Yogi9i as a tool in their design process. However, there was a twist. Only sustainable fabrics, up-cycled items or recyclable materials were to be used.
Wayne Holt, Lenovo’s Southern Africa Consumer Category Manager says the initiative is an important pillar in their commitment to empowering the next generation of designers. “By blending fashion and technology, we are not only fostering creativity but also driving innovation in sustainable practices. This platform celebrates the incredible potential that arises when cutting-edge technology meets artistic vision.”
Partnering with fashion leaders ensures that students gain mentorship and guidance throughout the process. In fact, learning is always the first step to success.
Fashion And Technology On Show
#BeTheCreator climaxed at the Villioti Fashion Institute on 25 November 2024. Here, the top three finalists of the design competition showcased their pieces to the audience and a panel of judges.
Included in the panel of judges were Somizi Mhlongo, Spero Villioti and Glamour Magazine’s Features Editor, Thobeka Phanyeko. Kutlwano Kesiamang’s breezy green and white design, Tatiana Argirys’s sunset gown and Sonja De Wet’s white and black rhino-print gown with tulle were identified as the three finalists, with Argirys walking away with the first prize. She designed a stunning sunset coloured gown featuring two elephants on the horizon, with upcycled sack material adding texture.
Finally, as the winner, she received her very own Yogi9i 2-in-1 device. Additionally, she was also offered a feature in Glamour Magazine to springboard her fashion career into action.
In the end, the competition served as a tool to prove how Artificial Intelligence and technology can aid creatives in ways they never imagined. While it might seem intimidating, it is not meant to be a threat to their careers. Instead, it is an exciting resource that allows creatives to reach their goals more easily, efficiently and effectively.
As Somizi says: “Creativity is the heartbeat of South Africa, and it’s incredible to see brands like Lenovo investing in the future of our creative industries and in local talent.”
Through the collaboration of Lenovo South Africa and Villioti Fashion Institute, together with Somizi’s Sompire Kids, the intersection where tech meets fashion was realised.
