In an extraordinary moment for the global fashion industry, Cape Town-based designer Lukhanyo Mdingi has been declared the triumphant winner of the 2023 Amiri Prize. The Amiri Prize, renowned as a prestigious fashion accolade and incubator, officially announced this remarkable achievement on Monday.
Lukhanyo’s victory came after an exhaustive selection process, where he outshone eight other finalists to secure this prestigious award. The decision was reached by the visionary founder of Amiri, Mike Amiri, along with a panel of distinguished fashion industry experts.
The Amiri Prize is not just a symbol of recognition; it’s a transformative opportunity. As part of this remarkable win, Lukhanyo Mdingi is awarded a year-long mentorship guided by Mike Amiri himself, and he receives a substantial grant of $100,000 USD to further propel his creative journey.
Born in 1992, Lukhanyo Mdingi established his eponymous fashion line in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa, back in 2015. His distinctive design philosophy emphasizes a profound collaboration with local artisans, underscoring his commitment to community empowerment through fashion. His label has garnered international acclaim and a plethora of prestigious awards while celebrating the human ingenuity and cultural richness of his homeland.
Lukhanyo Mdingi expressed his gratitude for this incredible achievement, stating, «We’re immensely thankful to the Amiri Prize, its jury committee, and Mike Amiri for the invaluable opportunity provided to the Lukhanyo Mdingi label. We eagerly anticipate the crucial guidance necessary to sustain the growth of our Independent Business & Vision.»
Mike Amiri, the visionary force behind the Amiri Prize, also shared his insights on the decision, «This year’s talent was exceptional, and selecting a frontrunner was a challenging task, but Lukhanyo’s vision and approach set him apart. His recent collections have allowed him to fine-tune a unique aesthetic and sensibility. Equally commendable is the purpose driving his work — his commitment to his broader community and culture resonates with significant brand potential.»
The Amiri Prize, established in 2021, was conceived as an annual fashion incubator to spotlight the unique and diverse voices shaping the future of the fashion industry while offering a robust support system. In a significant development for 2023, the second edition of the prize welcomed international applicants for the first time, drawing nearly 1,000 talented designers from around the world.
Among the noteworthy finalists were Abdel El Tayeb of El Tayeb Nation, Dorian Who, the creative mind behind Dorian Who, Grace Ling representing her eponymous brand, Keith Herron of Advisry, and Li Gong of 8On8, among many other talented individuals.
