Kliptown will host runway shows and fashion exhibitions this weekend, providing a platform for upcoming designers.

The event promises to feature more than 15 designers, who will showcase their winter-autumn and spring-summer collections.

The fashion show was officially launched in October by Jericho Events managing director and Soweto Fashion Week founder Stephen Manzini, who wanted to create a platform for "emerging designers in Africa".

One of the designers to present work is Thabo Khumalo. His collection is called Ghetto Bling.

Khumalo started his career six years ago, when he started making selected pieces for his mother.

His line has grown and now caters for middle- to upper-class, independent men and women.

"My line is about accentuating colour, being vibey and edgy and still possessing elegance," he said.

The extravaganza will not only provide designers with the opportunity to showcase their labels to a global audience of potential investors - one designer will win an R11500 bursary to study design and construction at the Inscape Design College.

Inscape Design College principal Rick Edmonds said: "Most of these designers are self-taught. We want to offer a helping hand to provide an opportunity to people who deserve a chance."

• The Soweto Fashion Week takes place at the Soweto Hotel from today until Saturday. Tickets are available at Computicket for R40. Visit www.sowetofashionweek.com for more information.