The prestigious North West School of Design and celebrity designer, Gert-Johan Coetzee are launching another bursary opportunity to talented, South AFrican youth. This bursary entitles two lucky people to the opportunity of a lifetime. To complete their studies alongside the alma-mater of Gert-Johan Coetzee. Coetzee launched the bursary opportunity in 2009. This annual opportunity has grown from strength to strength over the years. Hundreds of applications are received on annual basis, and from there, 10 nationwide finalists are chosen. Telephonic interviews and personal interviews then take place.
The process
Eventually Gert-Johan chooses his two winners and in an instant, their lives forever change for the better. This year, the two winners will commence their 2022 studies in January 2022 at the North West School of Design. The principal of North West School of Design gives guidance to these winners. Gert-Johan Coetzee himself will oversee the development of the learners by mentoring them individually. He also offers learning internships at his studio in Linden.
Previous winners of the bursary are employed in various sectors of the fashion industry, mass-production at factories, assistant designers, studio managers, owners of their own shops, retail industry specialists and fashion lectures and the list goes on.
A testimonial from a previous winner is as follows:
Prudence Kau – Bursary Winner 2015
The GJC bursary has been the most prominent stepping stone towards building my fashion career. Not only has it helped me acquire the necessary skills required to be an overall fashion designer with an internationally accredited fashion qualification, but has also given me the confidence to step out on my own and start my own fashion label, @racheljamesdesigns studio based in the Maboneng precinct in Johannesburg. We focus on custom made women’s wear and are currently looking into expansion. The journey still continues, still so much to be achieved but none of it would’ve been possible had I not been given the opportunity to be mentored by the best. I would encourage anyone with a dream and passion for fashion to apply for this bursary.
Winners
Gert-Johan Coetzee will announce the winners of the two bursaries in November 2021. This event is an annual event hosted by the North West School of Design, whereby the current students of North West School of Design put up an stunning event which attracts guests, fashion bloggers etc, and 1st year students showcase, Avant Garde Wear, whereas 2nd year students, 4 look Couture Collections and final years a 10 look Ready to Wear range.
Could you be the next winner?
