Fresh faces, bold talent, and Afrocentric beauty take the spotlight for SS25/6.
Fashion’s most dynamic platform in South Africa, Soweto Fashion Week (SFW), is once again opening its runway to fresh talent — this time for the Spring/Summer 2025/2026 (SS25/6) season. Known for celebrating African creativity, cultural identity, and global innovation, SFW continues to redefine what it means to model and design in the modern African context.
The open model casting call will take place on Saturday, 1 November 2025, at the Bannister Hotel, located at the corner of 9 De Beer Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, from 9:30 AM to 1 PM. This highly anticipated casting event will bring together aspiring models from across the country, offering them the opportunity to land a coveted spot on one of the most talked-about fashion platforms on the continent.
A Gateway for New Talent
Soweto Fashion Week has long been recognized as a launchpad for fresh faces in the fashion industry. Over the years, it has discovered, nurtured, and elevated models who have gone on to feature in major fashion campaigns, local and international editorials, and high-profile runway events.
By opening its doors to aspiring models once again, the organization continues its legacy of inclusivity, opportunity, and authentic African representation. The casting call is a rare chance for young people — especially those who may not have agency representation — to break into the modeling world and gain exposure in front of influential designers, stylists, photographers, and media representatives.
According to SFW’s mission statement, the goal is simple yet powerful: to create a space where fashion meets identity, where individuality thrives, and where every walk tells a story. The upcoming SS25/6 showcase aims to push this vision even further, with an emphasis on Afrocentric and natural looks, representing the beauty of diversity and cultural pride.
Casting Day Details
The Soweto Fashion Week Open Casting Call is structured to be both professional and accessible. Aspiring models are required to arrive on time — between 9:30 AM and 1 PM — at the Bannister Hotel in Braamfontein, one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant creative districts.
Model requirements are clear and concise:
- Male models must be at least 1.8 meters tall.
- Female models must be 1.75 meters tall.
- The dress code for the day is smart casual — black jeans or trousers paired with a plain T-shirt.
In addition to presenting themselves professionally, applicants must bring:
- A copy of their ID or passport,
- Proof of address,
- A Z-card (a modeling portfolio card with professional photos and stats), and
- Their social media handle for digital reference.
The emphasis on a natural and Afrocentric look underscores Soweto Fashion Week’s dedication to authenticity. Models are encouraged to embrace their natural hair textures, skin tones, and unique styles — a refreshing stance in an industry often criticized for unrealistic beauty standards.
Inclusivity at Its Core
One of the most powerful aspects of this casting call is its commitment to inclusivity. Soweto Fashion Week explicitly welcomes people living with disabilities, both men and women, as well as young aspiring models aged 18 to 30. This open invitation challenges conventional industry norms and reinforces SFW’s mission to represent all forms of beauty.
In a statement shared during previous editions of the event, SFW’s organizers highlighted their belief that “fashion is a universal language, and every individual deserves the chance to express themselves through it.” By creating equal opportunities for people of all abilities, the event continues to expand the boundaries of who gets to be seen and celebrated in fashion.
A Platform with Purpose
Soweto Fashion Week is more than just a runway event — it’s a cultural movement. Founded on the principles of empowerment and self-expression, SFW serves as a bridge between emerging talent and established industry networks. Each year, it brings together designers, models, stylists, photographers, and fashion enthusiasts under one creative banner to celebrate innovation and authenticity.
The SS25/6 edition promises to be one of the most dynamic yet, continuing to spotlight fashion narratives that celebrate African heritage while embracing contemporary global trends. The event’s organizers have consistently emphasized the importance of using fashion as a tool for storytelling — one that amplifies African voices, challenges stereotypes, and inspires new generations of creatives.
Location Spotlight: Bannister Hotel, Braamfontein
The choice of venue for the 2025 casting call — the Bannister Hotel — is significant. Located in the heart of Braamfontein, Johannesburg’s cultural hub, the hotel is a cornerstone for art, music, and design communities. Braamfontein’s urban energy perfectly matches Soweto Fashion Week’s youthful, creative, and progressive spirit.
The area has long been a melting pot for artists and entrepreneurs, making it an ideal backdrop for a casting call that’s all about fresh talent and fearless expression. Models attending the event will not only step into a professional audition environment but also immerse themselves in a setting that embodies South Africa’s contemporary creative heartbeat.
Empowering the Next Generation of Models
Breaking into the modeling industry can be challenging — particularly for those without access to agencies or professional representation. Soweto Fashion Week’s open casting model addresses this by creating a fair and transparent pathway for anyone with potential and passion.
The casting process will focus on more than just physical appearance. Confidence, presence, and attitude are equally important. Organizers are looking for individuals who can bring authenticity, charisma, and storytelling to the runway — people who can represent the SFW brand and the spirit of African fashion.
For many, this event could mark the beginning of a transformative journey. Successful candidates will earn the chance to walk for top African designers during the official Soweto Fashion Week SS25/6 showcase, gaining exposure to local and international media and industry scouts.
Partners and Supporters
Soweto Fashion Week continues to thrive through partnerships with key industry players. Among the sponsors and collaborators for the 2025 edition are Creme of Nature, Monkey Shoulder, Soweto Theatre, and Joburg City Theatres. These partnerships not only lend credibility to the event but also strengthen its connection to broader cultural and lifestyle movements across South Africa.
Each sponsor contributes to the overall mission of empowering creative communities — whether through beauty, performance, or design — ensuring that SFW remains a hub for cross-industry collaboration and innovation.
A Call to Action: Let’s Make History Together
The 2025 open model casting call is more than just a recruitment event — it’s an invitation to be part of something historic. As the global fashion landscape continues to evolve, South Africa’s creative industries are stepping boldly into the spotlight. Events like Soweto Fashion Week prove that African fashion isn’t just following trends — it’s setting them.
For aspiring models, this is a moment to take that first step. Whether they’re seasoned in front of the camera or stepping onto the runway for the first time, SFW’s inclusive and empowering approach ensures that everyone has a chance to shine.
The message from Soweto Fashion Week is clear: Be bold. Be authentic. Be you.
Event Recap
Event: Soweto Fashion Week SS25/6 Open Model Casting Call
Date: Saturday, 1 November 2025
Venue: Bannister Hotel, corner of 9 De Beer Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Time: 9:30 AM – 1 PM
Requirements:
- Male Models: 1.8m height
- Female Models: 1.75m height
- Dress Code: Smart Casual (Black jeans & T-shirt)
- Bring: ID/Passport copy, proof of address, Z-card, and social media handle
- Age: 18–30
- Afrocentric & natural looks encouraged
- People living with disabilities are welcome
Instagram: @sowetofashionweek
Hashtag: #SFWSS25_6
Soweto Fashion Week’s open casting is more than an event — it’s a movement toward representation, creativity, and empowerment. As South Africa’s fashion scene continues to influence global trends, this casting call stands as a reminder that the next big star could come from anywhere — perhaps even from the heart of Soweto itself.
So, to every aspiring model ready to take the stage: this is your moment. Step up, show up, and land the gig.
Also Read: EKFM Opens 2026 Auditions for Radio Presenters, News Anchors and Voice-Over Artists