Local talented model and presenter, Tṧepang Teba will represent Lesotho at the prestigious BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow, Russia from October 3-5.
This opportunity marks a significant milestone in his blossoming career. As the vibrant fashion scene continues to evolve globally, Teba stands out as a beacon of ambition and talent from Lesotho.
Teba has made remarkable strides in the fashion industry since his professional debut in 2018. Now, as he prepares to represent his nation at the BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow, he reflects on his journey, the challenges faced by Lesotho’s fashion industry, and his aspirations for the future.
Teba’s foray into modelling began with a billboard campaign for Econet Telecom Lesotho, which garnered significant attention and propelled him into the limelight.
By 2020, he had branched into presenting, winning the Lesotho Fashion Week Presenter Search, which led to his role as the Red Carpet Host for prestigious events like Miss Lesotho.
This blend of modelling and presenting has shaped his multifaceted career, allowing him to connect with various facets of the fashion world.
The BRICS+ Fashion Summit, a significant international event, aims to unite fashion industry professionals from emerging markets to foster dialogue and collaboration. The first edition, held in late 2022, attracted over 12,000 attendees and millions of viewers online, highlighting the summit’s global significance.
Teba’s participation illustrates not just his personal growth, but also the potential of Lesotho’s fashion industry on the world stage.
In an interview with theReporter this week, Teba said representing Lesotho at the BRICS+ Fashion Summit means the world to him.
“It feels like a breakthrough. I have always dreamt of making moves beyond our borders, and this opportunity has ignited something within me. My journey, marked by perseverance, has not been without its challenges, but this summit represents a chance to elevate the narrative of Lesotho’s fashion industry.
“I am determined to share Lesotho’s unique fashion story, emphasizing the need for emerging countries to have a voice in the global dialogue. I want to tell the story of Lesotho’s fashion industry through our lens – the African way.
“Lesotho is often regarded as an emerging country in the fashion scene, but we have so much to offer. My goal is not only to showcase local talent, but also to forge connections that could lead to skills exchange and mentorship opportunities for Lesotho’s designers and creatives,” he said.
Lesotho faces significant challenges in its fashion industry, primarily due to a limited audience and resources for emerging designers.
Teba notes with concern that the restricted market access hinders growth and sales, making it difficult for designers to establish sustainable brands.
“We need to create opportunities for our local designers to thrive. By participating in international platforms like the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, we can learn from others and implement robust solutions to our challenges.”
One of Teba’s core objectives is to showcase the cultural richness of Lesotho through fashion.
