About Ntokozo Fuzunina Kunene

My journey started, about 12 years ago, at Wits University where I received a B.Com Degree (majoring in Law, Business Finance and Economics), before moving to London were I acquired a Fashion Design qualification at Istituto Marangoni. During this time I took part in the Elle New Talent Competition in 2010, allowing me to launch my clothing label, Mabu49, at South African Fashion Week (SAFW), and then showcasing a second time at SAFW in 2011.

While living in London I also worked for ARISE Magazine, writing news pieces, and then eventually moved back to South Africa to work as an assistant fashion stylist at Destiny Magazine. However, my imagination was still calling, which is when I made the decision to apply for graduate school.

My experience at NYU has been nothing short of amazing – I have had the opportunity to work on production and costume design in short films, and costume design dance pieces, and plays. We are taught by working professionals who have maintained careers on Broadway and internationally. NYU encourages collaboration across departments so I have fostered relationships and networks that I plan to maintain for life. My internships have also allowed me to meet the legends such as John Kani, Athol Fugard and John Lithgow, and I have learnt important lessons in humility. I am about to begin my third and final year of my programme in August. I am not sure where my imagination will lead me next but I am certain that I will return to South Africa to share the knowledge and experience I have gained in my time here.

My work can be viewed on my website www.fuzunina.com