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Full name: Hangwani Nengovhela
Place of birth: Sibasa, Venda
Hometown and suburb: Riverclub, Sandton
Label: Rubicon
Website: www.rubiconclothing.co.za
Facebook: Rubicon
Twitter: @rubiconclothing
Instagram: @rubiconclothing

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]How do you feel about being part of the Vodacom Durban July Invited Designer Showcase this year?
It is exciting and an honour to be part of this highlight of the annual event calendar.

How did a career in fashion all start for you?
The brand Rubicon was established in 2002 with a flagship store in Pretoria. Although I started out in marketing, growing up with fashion around me inspired me to pursue a career in fashion, so it was a natural progression for me to make a career out of my passion.

Who were your early role models in the industry?
I was inspired by people like Stoned Cherrie, who were able to then penetrate the white dominated industry and also to celebrate the South African woman through fashion.
Internationally, I have always been inspired by the likes of Carolina Herrera, because of their timeless fashion and effortless style.

What was your proudest moment as a fashion designer?
My proudest moment was being able to showcase at Fashion Week for the first time in 2005. That meant that the brand was ready for market access.

Your style in five words?
Timeless, classic, feminine, modernized vintage and comfortable.

Your creative process?
I spend time researching, conceptualising and putting together a collage of my findings. This however, will be defined by what appeals to me more. I must be able to create art forms depicted from the stories I have compiled.

Your personality?
Intuitive, kind, naughtily reserved, fun, love nature and animals, family oriented and giving.

Your hobbies and pastimes?
Reading, workouts, spend time with family and spend time in solitude.

Your favourite city to visit for creative inspiration?
Internationally, it is Paris – I just love the architecture and the fashion.
Locally, I love Mapungubwe . . . I love the rich cultural heritage and draw inspiration from the complexity, yet simplicity of the people who once lived there.

Your favourite holiday destination?
I love to take what I term ‘shot lefts’ and enjoy the diverse rich heritage of what our country has to offer. Zanzibar has what I call a spiritual enlightenment. The history of the slave island is also enriching. I love Paris for its rich history of architecture and fashion.

On a day off I like to…
spend most of my time in solitude, to reflect and plan.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]