Fashion designer’s plea: I only need R100k!

PROMOTER and aspiring fashion designer Karabo Malapane needs help.

He dreams of hosting Bokone Bophirima Fashion Week and making it a success, but he needs sponsors.

The 53-year-old Karabo from Makwassie in the North West wants the event to coincide with Lupus Awareness Month to educate people about the chronic illness.

“I’ve been struggling to get funding for the event. We plan to launch it on 10 May and hold the main event on 4 September. We chose May for the launch because it’s dedicated to my daughter. She has lupus, and I can’t take care of her right now. I’m also losing a lot of things.

“I hope this will help me support my daughter. The launch, showcasing the Autumn/Winter collection, is very close to my heart. It will happen every May because it’s Lupus Awareness Month. I want to dedicate some time on the runway to educate people about lupus, and in the future, we hope to donate to non-profit organisations that support it,” he said.

Karabo told Daily Sun that he’s contacted many people and companies, but he hasn’t received responses yet.

“I’ve sent emails to over 100 companies. I’ve tried reaching out to all the millionaires in the North West, but like the sponsors, there’s no response. I also contacted the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, but I was told I was late. Applications opened in September 2024.

“I’m really not sure why sponsors aren’t responding to me. I don’t need much—R100 000 will do for the launch. It needs to happen because I believe it’s for a good cause,” Karabo said.

He said he’s passionate about fashion.

“I’m 53, but I don’t feel that old. I still have a lot of energy. That’s why I want to go to fashion school, learn about fashion, and how to ‘speak Prada,’ which is the language fashion designers use. I’ll go back to school as soon as I get money,” he said.

Many celebrities have been vocal about their struggles with lupus. Recently, actress and singer Selena Gomez shared her struggle. Others include Toni Braxton, Nick Cannon, Muni Long, Seal, and Lady Gaga.

What is lupus?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, brain, and other parts of the body. The most common type, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), causes inflammation and a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and organ damage.

What is the treatment/cure?

There is no cure for lupus, but treatments like medication, lifestyle adjustments, and regular medical care help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.