I've heard it said that true leaders are recognised not by their power, but by their ability to pass on their skills and empower others.Fashion designer David Tlale proved that he's a leader when nine of his interns showcased their collections to the fashion media last Friday at his studio in Maboneng.His fashion programme is called ''Interns by David Tlale", and the young designers he mentors presented 17 pieces divided into two collections.The first brief was to create beautifully silhouetted garments using one of the most sensitive French fabrics, georgette. The bold collection brightened the runway with green turquoise and lavender colours.PUBLIC SCRUTINY: Outfit by intern Katlego MamaboloThe second brief required the interns to show their creativity and skills by commemorating May Day and the 40th anniversary of the June 16 Soweto uprising.Some of these politically inspired garments reflected the ANC colours - black, yellow and green - while others were in the colours of the SACP - black, red and white.Models were accessorised in chains, ANC doeks, traditional beads and boards on which political slogans were written.PUBLIC SCRUTINY: Outfit by intern Katlego MamaboloFive of the interns had also showcased at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Joburg in Sandton this year.Tlale says the interns get to have a real-life experience of the fashion industry, including working backstage with him at New York Fashion Week."By taking part in fashion week preparations, they get to feel the pressure and intricacies that come with preparing a solid fashion story," says Tlale...