Central SA
Free State fashion week prepares for powerful women’s day celebration─── REFILWE BEKANE 11:30 Wed, 06 Aug 2025

Bloemfontein is gearing up for a powerful celebration of women as the Free State Fashion Week (FSFW) announces the full line-up for its 2025 Women’s Day Business and Fashion Fest.
The event, themed Glam with a Touch of Pink, will take place on Saturday (9/8), in the city hall, and will feature a stellar cast of national icons and local
Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi will be hosting the women’s breakfast for the first time in Bloemfontein. A number of prominent women will join Tunzi.
These include platinum-selling musician AmiFaku, media personality Unathi Nkayi, and Bloemfontein’s own media star AngelaLinda, who will co-host the event.
The official program promises a mix of power, purpose, and performance. Attendees can look forward to hearing from award-winning speaker and musician Unathi Nkayi and enjoying soulful performances by Ami Faku.
The lineup also includes internationally recognised DJ Binnz, who is a vocal advocate for women in entertainment, as well as a range of local performers and emerging talent from the Free State.
Angela Linda. Photo: Instagram
FSFW CEO Candi Smith called the event one of the most meaningful they have ever produced. Smith emphasised its role in not only bringing together impactful women leaders, but in creating a platform for the next generation of talent.
“The Free State is home to some of the most exciting emerging talent in the country,” said Smith. “Through our open call for designers and our annual model casting, we’re not only holding space, we’re saying your voice, your art, and your story matter. This is your runway, too.”
FSFW is also opening its doors to aspiring designers and models. Emerging and established designers are invited to apply to showcase their collections.
Model casting call
Luyanda Tshaya, part of PR, said selected designers will have the chance to present their work to a live audience, media, and industry professionals. Interested designers should send a short bio, portfolio or lookbook, and contact details to info@freestatefashionweek.co.za with the subject line “FSFW 2025 Designer Application” by Tuesday (12/8).
In addition, a model casting call will be held on Saturday, 16 August at the Sapphire Hotel, 92 Charles Street, Bloemfontein. Registration begins at 08:00 and the casting an hour later.
Aspiring models are encouraged to show up in all black and bring their ZCards or full-length photos. Registration for the casting is free.