Fashion fest set to dazzle with style, scenery

The Lesotho Winter Fashion Fest is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience on June 7, 2025, as it partners with Banesa Gardens and Exclusive Model Agency for a high-end fashion show.

In an interview with theReporter, Kananelo Mofolo, the events coordinator of Banesa Gardens and the visionary behind the fashion fest, shared the story behind this exciting collaboration.

She explained that the partnership was born from a shared passion for showcasing local creativity, sophistication, and talent.

Exclusive Model Agency sought a venue that would not only reflect the elegance of fashion but also offer a serene, scenic setting, and Banesa Gardens fit the vision perfectly. Together, they crafted an event concept that blends glamour and nature, aiming to celebrate Lesotho’s culture and innovation during the winter season.

“Exclusive Model Agency specifically chose Banesa Gardens for its breathtaking scenery, reputation for excellence, and alignment with our vision for elevated fashion experiences. This collaboration benefits both parties; Banesa Gardens gains exposure in fashion and tourism circles, while the agency gets a unique platform to showcase designers and models in a remarkable setting,” Mofolo said.

This will be the first time Banesa Gardens hosts a fashion event, a move Mofolo describes as a “natural progression” for the venue. The goal, she said, is to offer Basotho designers a platform to showcase their work free of charge, noting that many talented local designers struggle to gain the recognition they deserve.

The event’s tagline, #fashionwithaview, highlights the scenic appeal of Banesa Gardens, which overlooks Maseru from its vantage point on Sehlabeng sa Thuathe at Ha Mafaesa.

The day-long outdoor affair will feature runway shows in the expansive gardens, accompanied by music from a line-up of DJs and an evening after-party complete with bonfires.

Mofolo noted that Basotho designers have been invited to present their finest collections, aiming to make this inaugural event a historic milestone for the country’s fashion industry.

Banesa Gardens, known as both an events venue and guesthouse, has long faced challenges due to poor access roads.

“We’ve missed out on many opportunities because of road conditions,” Mofolo lamented. “But we’ve done our best with the resources we have, and this event is a step toward greater visibility and community involvement.”

Speaking about their partner, Mofolo described Exclusive Model Agency as a trailblazer in Lesotho’s fashion landscape. Under the leadership of Director Mojalefa Kolobe, the agency is committed to nurturing local talent, promoting professionalism, and opening doors for Basotho models on national and international platforms.

The agency also leads fashion shows, training programmes, and inclusive campaigns that push for industry excellence.

Mofolo credited the partnership’s success to strong teamwork and visionary leadership, highlighting the roles of Kolobe, Banesa Gardens’ PR and Events team, and creative contributors including stylists, choreographers, designers, and media teams.

She indicated that the initiative was driven by a shared desire to break away from conventional fashion shows and create something visually stunning and culturally meaningful. “Banesa Gardens’ natural beauty, paired with the bold vision of Exclusive Model Agency, made this possible.”

Interestingly, the collaboration came together quickly. Just a week after Banesa Gardens announced plans to host the Lesotho Winter Fashion Fest, Kolobe reached out, offering the agency’s expertise – a move that led to a swift and fruitful partnership.

Looking ahead, Mofolo is optimistic about the future of fashion in Lesotho.

“I hope this festival helps Basotho designers feel recognised and celebrated. We envision this becoming an annual event, inspiring continued collaboration and growth in our creative industries,” she added.