Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Interests
Timeline
Work Availability
Quote
Certification
Work Preference
Languages
Software
Listening to music, Working out, Sewing, Praying
Websites
Hi, I’m

Matefo Mabuya

Fashion Designer
Johannesburg,GP
Matefo Mabuya

Summary

Elevating Mabuya Couture to a market leader, I leveraged artistic vision and fabric selection to craft trendsetting designs, while fostering teamwork and collaboration for organizational growth. My strategic initiatives expanded our footprint, achieving substantial business growth without compromising on ethical standards or creativity.

Set Dresser well-versed in meeting branding and set design requirements. Collaborative team player works well with fabrication teams to modify designs to meet specifications. Highly energetic and results-driven with enterprising nature.

Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.

Pursuing full-time role that presents professional challenges and leverages interpersonal skills, effective time management, and problem-solving expertise.

Hardworking and passionate job seeker with strong organizational skills eager to secure entry-level fashion designer position. Ready to help team achieve company goals.

Detail-oriented individual with exceptional communication and project management skills. Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for taking proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues, with focus on optimizing processes and supporting team objectives.

Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.

Experienced leader with strong background in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and achieving strategic objectives. Excels in developing efficient processes, ensuring high standards, and aligning efforts with organizational goals. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.

Results-oriented achiever with proven ability to exceed targets and drive success in fast-paced environments. Combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience to deliver impactful solutions and enhance organizational performance.

Proactive and goal-oriented professional with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Known for reliability and adaptability, with swift capacity to learn and apply new skills. Committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.

Dynamic individual with hands-on experience in fashion designing and talent for navigating challenges. Brings strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and results-oriented mindset. Committed to making meaningful contributions and advancing organizational goals. Offering unique perspective and strong foundation in fashion design principles. Contributes quick ability to learn and adapt to new techniques and industry trends. Ready to use and develop skills in garment construction and textile selection in fashion designer role. Optimistic, creative, and adaptable with passion for fashion and design. Possess solid foundation in fashion principles and techniques, including garment construction, pattern drafting and textile selection. Aiming to contribute fresh, innovative ideas to enhance design process and create impactful fashion statements.

Overview

5
years of professional experience
4
years of post-secondary education
3
Languages
1
Certificate

Work History

Maxhosa Africa
Johannesburg, Gauteng

Student Volunteer
03.2025 - 03.2025

Job overview

  • Worked in team environment to maintain high levels of productivity.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment by maintaining a professional attitude and demonstrating respect for all individuals involved in the project.
  • Took and followed detailed directions from others.
  • Demonstrated adaptability by quickly adjusting to changing circumstances or unforeseen challenges during event.
  • Strengthened interpersonal communication abilities through constant interaction with diverse populations during volunteering events.
  • Positively impacted the lives of countless individuals within the community by dedicating time, energy, and passion towards meaningful causes as a student volunteer.
  • Sorted customer needs to manage order fulfillment.
  • Coordinated and managed seating arrangements as volunteer
  • Helped clients navigate social services system and access needed resources.
  • Approached issues proactively to best meet current and future community needs.
  • Tracked service activities and outcomes against outlined plans and goals.

AFI - Africa Fashion International
Johannesburg, Gauteng

On-Set Dresser
03.2025 - 03.2025

Job overview

  • Demonstrated a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence, resulting in consistently high-quality set dressings and timely completion of tasks.
  • Maintained positive relationships with crew members through professionalism and effective communication skills on set.
  • Contributed to a safe working environment through diligent maintenance of all set dressings and equipment.
  • Facilitated communication among various departments on set, promoting teamwork and efficiency during the fashion shows.
  • Enhanced set aesthetics by meticulously arranging props and set decorations according to director's vision.

Villioti Fashion Institute
Johannesburg, GP

Fashion Student
07.2023 - Current

Job overview

  • Followed school and classroom policies, regulations, dress codes, and schedules.
  • Collaborated on group projects to complete professional deliverables.
  • Enhanced classroom experience by utilizing multimedia presentations and interactive learning tools.
  • Collaborated with fellow students to share best practices and improve overall learning effectiveness in the department.
  • Championed a growth mindset culture within the classroom, inspiring students to embrace challenges and persevere through obstacles in pursuit of their academic goals.
  • Searched at library and in scholarly databases to locate necessary information for research projects.
  • Utilized professor office hours to clarify topics needing elaboration.
  • Mentored struggling students through personalized tutoring sessions, resulting in improved academic performance.
  • Collaborated with student organizations to host inclusive social events, fostering sense of community.
  • Improved engagement with interactive learning techniques.
  • Created and managed project plans, timelines and budgets.

Villioti Fashion Institute
Johannesburg, GP

On-Set Dresser
07.2023 - Current

Job overview

  • Adjusted clothing once model was dressed, making sure all garments fit properly and looked perfect.
  • Maintained positive, professional attitude during long shoots and when dealing with difficult people.
  • Determined proper shoes, jewelry, head wear, and other accessories to complement designer outfits.
  • Fitted models with outfits as per designer specifications.
  • Steamed and pressed garments prior to runway shows.
  • Tracked all clothing and accessories used in runway shows and photo shoots.
  • Supported models when clothing was uncomfortable.
  • Resolved any clothing or fitting issues quickly while keeping clients informed at every stage of the process.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by providing personalized and attentive service during fittings and alterations.
  • Increased repeat business through exceptional interpersonal skills and attention to client preferences.
  • Managed appointment scheduling efficiently, maximizing productivity without compromising quality of service.
  • Coordinated with other team members to ensure seamless communication regarding appointments and client needs.
  • Maintained a clean, welcoming environment in the dressing area, promoting positive customer experiences.
  • Enhanced client wardrobe options by recommending complementary accessories and clothing pieces.
  • Provided expert guidance on current fashion trends and styling techniques, helping clients make informed choices.
  • Used sewing machines to execute simple alterations and repairs on clothing.
  • Continuously expanded product knowledge through ongoing training sessions, staying current on industry trends.
  • Assisted in purchasing garments and accessories, helping clients dress more fashionably for events.
  • Utilized Adobe and Canva to sketch and draft detailed renderings and produce stylized mood boards to present to clients.
  • Liaised with hosts, production teams and wardrobe stylists to verify appropriately chosen garments for events, show segments, and movies.
  • Cleaned blush, foundation and other makeup stains off of fabric using club soda and gentle detergents.

Villioti Fashion Institute
Johannesburg, GP

Fashion Show Backstage Manager
07.2023 - 11.2024

Job overview

  • Contributed to a positive work environment by maintaining organized and clean design studio spaces.
  • Gained industry experience through hands-on participation in fashion shows, photoshoots, and showroom preparations.
  • Increased design team efficiency by assisting with pattern drafting and garment construction tasks.
  • Provided valuable feedback during team meetings that led to improvements in design concepts or construction methods for finalized garments.
  • Enhanced brand identity through diligent fabric sourcing, resulting in cohesive collection aesthetics.
  • Improved overall sample quality through meticulous attention to detail when completing fittings adjustments under designer supervision.
  • Assisted designers at fashion photo shoots, tracking accessories and dressing models.
  • Gained exposure to various aspects of fashion business operations, including production management and quality control procedures.
  • Enhanced overall product presentation through meticulous steaming and garment prep for promotional events and visual displays.
  • Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate communication of design concepts and details.
  • Aided in the implementation of sustainable practices by researching eco-friendly materials and production techniques.
  • Expedited prototype development processes by promptly assembling garment components using industrial sewing machinery or hand-sewing techniques as required.
  • Supported the development of seasonal collections through trend research and innovative concept presentations.
  • Executed timely completion of design projects by prioritizing tasks according to project deadlines.
  • Reduced material waste by skillfully utilizing marker-making software for optimal fabric usage during sample production.
  • Followed market trends and research to establish innovative product offerings for consumers.
  • Sketched artistic and fresh designs for consideration.
  • Developed seasonal and brand style guides to promote organization.
  • Oversaw production fashion line from concept to completion.
  • Designed seasonal styles according to upcoming trends and popular color palettes.

Mabuya Couture
Johannesburg, GP

Fashion Designer
06.2020 - Current

Job overview

  • Designed sampling displays to enhance consumer interest.
  • Designed seasonal styles according to upcoming trends and popular color palettes.
  • Selected fabrics, patterns and trims to use in final designs and meet desired aesthetics and quality standards.
  • Worked closely with production teams to ensure high-quality manufacturing and timely delivery of products.
  • Sketched artistic and fresh designs for consideration.
  • Followed market trends and research to establish innovative product offerings for consumers.
  • Worked with photographers and stylists to showcase products for optimal visibility.
  • Assisted photographers in styling photoshoots showcasing new collections effectively; increasing exposure through print and digital media.
  • Gathered information from vendors regarding market trends and competitor activity.
  • Managed budgets for design projects, ensuring cost-effective solutions while maintaining artistic vision.
  • Created detailed measurement and construction specifications for design to be executed appropriately by production teams.
  • Conducted fittings and adjusted designs to produce comfortable and appealing final products for clients.
  • Created unique and trendsetting garments, securing a loyal customer base and positive media coverage.
  • Mentored junior designers, fostering culture of innovation and continuous improvement within design team.
  • Oversaw successful execution of fashion shows, from conceptualization to runway presentation, boosting brand image.
  • Facilitated professional development workshops for design team, keeping skills and knowledge up-to-date with industry standards.
  • Improved team productivity with implementation of streamlined communication processes between design and production departments.
  • Negotiated with fabric suppliers to secure premium materials at competitive prices, improving profit margins.
  • Mentored junior designers, fostering a supportive work environment that encouraged creativity and innovation.
  • Used drawing and draping techniques to develop ideas and communicate strategies to others.
  • Conducted market research to identify emerging trends, guiding the development of new collections accordingly.
  • Organized and participated in fashion shows, generating significant media attention and industry recognition.

Mabuya Couture
Johannesburg, GP

Founder
06.2020 - Current

Job overview

  • Developed strong partnerships with other businesses to allow for collaboration and more significant opportunities for growth.
  • Established a successful business by identifying market needs and developing innovative solutions.
  • Implemented efficient operational processes to optimize productivity and resource allocation.
  • Created organization's mission and vision statements for use by employees.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing client concerns promptly and effectively resolving issues.
  • Achieved long-term sustainability for the organization through responsible decision-making processes grounded in ethics.
  • Negotiated favorable contracts with suppliers, reducing costs while maintaining product quality.
  • Developed key operational initiatives to drive and maintain substantial business growth.
  • Guided team members through periods of change by providing clear communication on expectations and objectives moving forward.
  • Developed strong partnerships with key industry players, contributing to an increased market presence.
  • Built a positive organizational culture that fostered creativity, innovation, and employee engagement.
  • Led recruitment and development of strategic alliances to maximize utilization of existing talent and capabilities.
  • Devised and presented business plans and forecasts to board of directors.
  • Oversaw divisional marketing, advertising and new product development.
  • Collaborated with legal, accounting and other professional teams to review and maintain compliance with regulations.
  • Initiated strategy to drive company growth and increase market share and profitability.
  • Monitored key business risks and established risk management procedures.
  • Created succession plans to provide continuity of operations during leadership transitions.
  • Represented organization at industry conferences and events.
  • Formulated and executed strategic initiatives to improve product offerings.
  • Developed innovative sales and marketing strategies to facilitate business expansion.
  • Managed financial, operational and human resources to optimize business performance.
  • Established and maintained strong relationships with customers, vendors and strategic partners.
  • Analyzed industry trends and tracked competitor activities to inform decision making.
  • Increased brand visibility and market penetration by developing and executing comprehensive marketing strategies.
  • Negotiated partnerships with suppliers to reduce costs, enhancing profitability with strategic sourcing.
  • Built and maintained strong, cohesive team by recruiting top talent and fostering supportive work environment.
  • Enhanced customer experience with introduction of user-friendly online platform.
  • Solidified company's competitive position, conducting comprehensive market analysis and adjusting strategies accordingly.
  • Bolstered company reputation and trust by maintaining high ethical standards and transparency in all dealings.
  • Navigated company through regulatory landscapes, ensuring compliance with all industry standards and laws.
  • Expanded company's footprint internationally by identifying and capitalizing on emerging market opportunities.
  • Maximized profitability, carefully managing budget allocations and cutting unnecessary expenses.
  • Streamlined operations, implementing efficient workflow processes that cut down on project completion times.
  • Achieved sustainability goals, implementing eco-friendly practices that also reduced operating costs.
  • Boosted team productivity and morale through leadership development programs and regular feedback sessions.
  • Conducted target market research to scope out industry competition and identify advantageous trends.
  • Led the strategic planning process to define business goals and ensure alignment across all departments.
  • Ensured compliance with industry regulations while maintaining ethical business practices at all times.
  • Championed continuous improvement efforts within the organization, streamlining operations for increased efficiency.
  • Created and monitored promotional approaches to increase sales and profit levels.
  • Expanded the company''s geographical reach, opening new markets and increasing profitability.
  • Oversaw financial management activities such as budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow monitoring for improved financial stability.
  • Secured sufficient funds to cover business obligations by tracking expenses and budgeting accurately.
  • Led company through successful rebranding effort, refreshing brand image to appeal to broader audience.
  • Cultivated loyal customer base through personalized marketing campaigns and loyalty programs.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction, providing exceptional service and promptly addressing inquiries and concerns.
  • Pioneered adoption of remote work policies, ensuring business continuity during challenging times.
  • Fostered culture of innovation, leading to development of groundbreaking products that captured new market segments.

Education

Villioti Fashion Institute
Johannesburg, South Africa

Some College (No Degree) from Fashion Design
07.2023 - Current

University Overview

  • Completed Diploma Coursework: Level 1, 2023 [First Year]
  • Leader of Assigned Production Team for Villioti Future Leaders Fashion Show,
  • Currently completing Level 2, 2024 [Second Year]

Motheo TVET College
Thaba Nchu, South Africa

Some College (No Degree) from Clothing Production
07.2021 - 11.2023

University Overview

  • Completed University-level Coursework: Thaba Nchu, South Africa, Motheo TVET College
  • Completed N6 level Diploma
  • Graduated with a distinction in Computer Practice

Skills

Styling techniques

Accomplishments

Accomplishments
  • Collaborated with team of 2 in allocated position in the development of Villioti Institution Fashion Show.
  • Achieved 82% pass mark by completing fashion show garments production with accuracy and efficiency.

Interests

Travel and networking

Play hockey again

Working with prominent brands

Timeline

Student Volunteer
Maxhosa Africa
03.2025 - 03.2025
On-Set Dresser
AFI - Africa Fashion International
03.2025 - 03.2025
Villioti Fashion Institute
Some College (No Degree) from Fashion Design
07.2023 - Current
Fashion Student
Villioti Fashion Institute
07.2023 - Current
On-Set Dresser
Villioti Fashion Institute
07.2023 - Current
Fashion Show Backstage Manager
Villioti Fashion Institute
07.2023 - 11.2024
Motheo TVET College
Some College (No Degree) from Clothing Production
07.2021 - 11.2023
Fashion Designer
Mabuya Couture
06.2020 - Current
Founder
Mabuya Couture
06.2020 - Current
Availability
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Quote

Success is often achieved by those who don’t know that failure is inevitable.
Coco Chanel

Certification

Computer Practice Cum Laude

Work Preference

Work Type

InternshipGig WorkContract WorkPart TimeFull Time

Work Location

Hybrid

Important To Me

Career advancementWork-life balanceCompany CultureFlexible work hoursWork from home optionPaid time offHealthcare benefitsPersonal development programsTeam Building / Company RetreatsPaid sick leave

Languages

English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Sesotho
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Afrikaans
Intermediate (B1)

Software

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Powerpoint

Adobe Creative Cloud

Canva

Listening to music, Working out, Sewing, Praying

Listening to music, Working out, Sewing, Praying

I deepen my coping mechanisms by being intentional with how I engage in each one. When I listen to music, I explore different genres based on my mood, ensuring that the lyrics and melodies either uplift or soothe me rather than intensify negative emotions. I also create playlists tailored for relaxation, motivation, or focus. In working out, I mix different types of exercises like strength training and cardio to keep things engaging, while also balancing intense workouts with rest and mindful movement to avoid burnout. Sewing is more than just a skill for me, it’s a mindful practice where I focus on textures, colors, and the rhythm of stitching, making sure I appreciate the process rather than stressing over perfection. Through prayer, I strengthen my spiritual connection by practicing gratitude, journaling my reflections, and incorporating moments of silent meditation. By balancing these practices, I create a holistic and sustainable approach to managing stress and maintaining my emotional well-being.

Matefo MabuyaFashion Designer