MBABANE – The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and the Eswatini Intellectual Property Office (EIPO) have joined forces to support arts and fashion designers.
This strategy aims to transform Eswatini’s creative talent into commercially viable, globally protected brands through the Business Furniture and Art Programme. The programme is designed to equip local designers with the legal and business tools needed to scale their operations beyond Eswatini’s borders.
The opportunity for local designers was revealed at the Hilton Garden Inn on February 18 during the Business of Fashion IP workshop. According to the local Intellectual Property Registrar, Cel’colo Dludlu, local fashion designers who will participate in the programme have to be part of the local IP mentoring programme. “This programme is an answer call to our local fashion designers who want the exposure; this initiative will open a lot of doors for them,” he said.
The workshop covered key areas including copyright, trademarks and patents, offering practical insights on how to protect and commercialise creative work. Participants engaged in discussions on the importance of IP in the fashion industry, particularly in safeguarding designs and branding.
For the winners of the programme, the rewards extend far beyond a trophy or a certificate. The initiative has secured a series of career-defining opportunities:
Global exposure via Netflix: The entire journey from the initial design sketches to the final products will be captured in a documentary series slated for Netflix. This provides a massive platform to showcase Swati culture and innovation to millions of viewers worldwide.
The magical experience: Winners will be flown to major international fashion hubs, including an exclusive residency and showcase at London Fashion Week and other fashion houses.
Mentorship: The fashion designers will be mentored and guided through the fashion business.
A section of the creatives and fashion designers during the workshop. (Pics: Takhona Sithole)