Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary South Africa For 2026. Gert-Johan Coetzee is a renowned South African fashion designer, acclaimed for his exquisite red-carpet gowns and wedding dresses. As a prominent figure in the fashion industry, Coetzee has made his mark by designing for some of the biggest international and local celebrities. His illustrious clientele includes Kourtney Kardashian, Kristen Cavallari, Liezel van der Westhuizen, Bonang Matheba, Basetsana Khumalo, and many more. Known for his sophisticated and innovative designs, Coetzee’s name is synonymous with high fashion and style.
With an exceptional reputation in the global fashion community, Gert-Johan Coetzee has now partnered with the North West School of Design to offer an incredible opportunity for aspiring fashion designers through the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme for 2026. This bursary is designed to provide financial support to students wishing to pursue a career in fashion design, focusing on creativity, skills, and professional development in the fashion industry.
Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme
The Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary for 2026 is a golden opportunity for students passionate about fashion design and seeking to study at the esteemed North West School of Design (NWSD) in Klerksdorp, South Africa. This initiative aims to nurture and cultivate emerging fashion talent, offering a unique opportunity to gain practical and theoretical knowledge in the fashion industry.
Fields of Study Covered by the Bursary
The bursary focuses on the Fashion Design course, a three-year program at the North West School of Design. The curriculum is comprehensive and covers a broad spectrum of skills necessary for a successful career in fashion. Students will be trained in various areas including:
- Fashion Illustration: Learning how to express creative ideas through detailed sketches and designs.
- Apparel Construction: Understanding garment production from pattern making to final stitching.
- Pattern Drafting and Manipulation: Learning the technical skills involved in creating patterns and modifying them for different fashion styles.
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Utilizing technology to enhance design processes and production.
- Fashion Retail: Gaining insight into the commercial side of fashion, including marketing, trends, and distribution.
In line with the theme of the bursary, “Style Tribes: Subcultures,” the program encourages students to explore how various subcultures and fashion tribes influence style choices. Understanding and participating in these “fashion tribes” is an essential part of expressing individuality through design, and it’s a focal point of the program.
Bursary Coverage and Value
The Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme offers extensive coverage for eligible students. The bursary is valued at over R187,000, and it covers the following:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage for three years of tuition at the North West School of Design.
- Sewing Machine: A Bernette – Chicago 5 sewing machine is provided, sponsored by Bernina RSA, to support students’ hands-on practice and skill-building.
- Design Equipment: Students will have access to necessary tools for their coursework and practical projects.
However, it is important to note that the bursary does not cover accommodation, transport, or meals. Students will need to arrange for these expenses independently.
Bursary Obligations: Internships and Professional Development
One of the highlights of the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme is the internship requirement. Bursary recipients are required to complete two internship programmes each year during their academic holidays at Gert-Johan Coetzee’s studios. This provides invaluable practical experience and the opportunity to work alongside one of South Africa’s leading designers, gaining insight into the fashion industry’s real-world demands and expectations.
Eligibility Requirements
The Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme is open to South African students who meet specific eligibility criteria. To apply, you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be currently enrolled in Matric (Grade 12) or have already completed Matric.
- Intend on studying full-time towards a 3-year Fashion Design course at the North West School of Design in Klerksdorp.
- Be fluent in English (both written and spoken).
- Exhibit passion, dedication, and drive in your pursuit of a fashion career.
- Demonstrate a natural fashion instinct and an interest in exploring different fashion subcultures.
These requirements ensure that only the most passionate and driven individuals are selected for the bursary, maintaining the high standards of the fashion industry.
How to Apply for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary
If you meet the eligibility criteria, the application process for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Here’s how to apply:
- Visit the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Application page.
- Submit an online application with clear copies of the following documents:
- ID document or both sides of your ID card (certified copy).
- Matric results (if currently in Matric, certified copy).
- Matric certificate (if completed Matric, certified copy).
- Two fashion designs based on any style tribe, including fashion sketches (A4 size, full colour, maximum 5 MB each).
- A Mood Board with a collage showing the subcultures and aesthetics that inspired your designs (maximum 5 MB).
Ensure that all documents are clear and legible. Missing documentation could lead to disqualification from the selection process.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme is rigorous and includes the following steps:
- Semi-finalists: A shortlist of semi-finalists will be selected and contacted by Charles Oosthuizen from the North West School of Design.
- Assignment Submission: Semi-finalists will be required to complete an assignment and submit it by a set deadline.
- Finalists: The finalists will be announced and invited to attend the Platinum Fashion Festival at the North West School of Design in Klerksdorp.
- Winner Announcement: The bursary winner will be announced, and the recipient will be provided with further instructions.
The entire selection process aims to identify the most talented and passionate students who are committed to making a significant contribution to the fashion industry.
Closing Date for Applications
The application deadline for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme is 23 September 2025. It is crucial to submit your application before this date to ensure your application is considered. Late applications will not be accepted.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or require additional information, you can contact the North West School of Design directly:
- Phone: 018 462 5149
- Email: [email protected]
Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Key Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Name | Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Design Bursary 2026 |
| Institution | North West School of Design, Klerksdorp |
| Value of Bursary | Over R187,000 |
| Covered Expenses | Tuition, Sewing Machine (Bernette – Chicago 5) |
| Not Covered | Accommodation, Transport, Meals |
| Internship Requirement | 2 internships per year at Gert-Johan Coetzee’s studio |
| Eligibility | South African citizen, Matric or completed Matric |
| Application Deadline | 23 September 2025 |
FAQs about the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme
Who can apply for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary?
The bursary is open to South African students who have completed or are currently in Matric and plan to study full-time towards a Fashion Design course at the North West School of Design.
What documents are required to apply?
Applicants need to submit their ID document, Matric results (or certificate), fashion design sketches, and a mood board showcasing their design inspirations.
What does the bursary cover?
The bursary covers tuition fees for three years and provides a Bernette sewing machine. However, it does not cover accommodation, transport, or meals.
Conclusion
The Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme offers a unique opportunity for aspiring fashion designers to kickstart their careers in the world of fashion. By offering comprehensive training, practical experience, and mentorship from one of South Africa’s leading designers, this bursary equips students with the skills they need to succeed in the competitive fashion industry. If you’re passionate about fashion and want to make your mark on the global stage, the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary Programme could be the perfect launching pad for your career.
