Emerging creative Wandile Leeu on bridging the gap between tradition and cool

“The whole essence behind us establishing the brand was to celebrate the city and the people and the mentality of what Joburg is about.”

Part of the Project

Johannesburg-based streetwear designer, Wandile Leeu started his I RUN JHB label as a way to celebrate the energy and the people in the City of Gold. Leeu is one of the 40 Design Indaba Emerging Creatives who got to exhibit and sell their products during the Design Indaba Festival 2018. 

The Emerging Creatives Programme is presented by Design Indaba and the Department of Arts and Culture to support, educate and mentor South Africa's future designers.

“This is a massive platform for us, where people can come through and check out our work,” said Leeu during our interview that took place at this year's Design Indaba.

During the exhibition the designer showcased his bold Xitsonga tracksuits and stylish waist bags. People were drawn to the vibrancy of the collection and the brand's key vibe of ‘umswenko’.

“The whole essence behind us establishing the brand was to celebrate the city and the people and the mentality of what Joburg is about,” he said.

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