“Surreal and deeply rewarding.”
These are the words Somerset West resident Marnus Botha uses to describe winning the City of Cape Town’s inaugural “Wear the Hope Challenge.” He also had the honour of designing Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis’s official festive season top.
The competition, launched as part of this year’s Festive Lights Switch-On celebrations under the theme “United in Hope,” invited all Capetonians. They were asked to submit concepts that reflect the city’s resilience, cultural diversity, and spirit of togetherness.
From website browse to winning design
For Botha, entering was simply about embracing a creative challenge while contributing something meaningful to his city. “I first came across the ‘Wear the Hope’ Challenge while browsing the City’s website, and it immediately caught my attention,” he explained. “The idea of combining creativity with a message of hope and unity really resonated with me. When I read that the challenge involved designing a Christmas-themed jersey for the Mayor of Cape Town, I remember thinking, ‘This is such a unique and meaningful concept – I have to give it a try.”
The appeal went beyond aesthetics for Botha. “It wasn’t just about design; it was about using creativity to spread positivity and celebrate the spirit of the city. I’ve always enjoyed taking part in creative projects that have a deeper meaning or community focus. This felt like the perfect opportunity.”
Beyond his day job
Despite his success, Botha doesn’t consider himself a traditional designer. “Although I’m not a professional designer by trade, I’ve always had a strong appreciation for creativity and design as a personal passion. This has led me to pursue a career path in ‘designing cities,’” said Botha, who works for the City specialising in infrastructure planning and service delivery.
For him, the victory represents something larger than personal achievement. “It’s a reminder that creativity and innovation are valued within our workplace. Opportunities exist for staff to express talents beyond their day-to-day roles. So to actually win was an incredible surprise.”
Sketching symbols of hope and unity
Botha’s winning concept captured the hearts of the judges through its heartfelt symbolism. It had a masterful ability to weave together iconic elements of Cape Town’s heritage, landmarks, and natural beauty. It told one compelling story of hope that clearly articulates the festive season. Fashion designer Victor K and costume designer and art director Widaad Albertus, who served as judges, reviewed the shortlist of entrants separately. They were impressed by Botha’s creative vision. While fellow contestant Karon Botes also received recognition for her entry’s simple elegance and unique approach to festive wear, it was ultimately Botha who walked away with top honours.
Asked to take readers behind the scenes of his creative process, Botha revealed it all started with one fundamental question: “What does the spirit of Christmas in Cape Town feel like?” This simple inquiry set his creative wheels in motion.
“From there, I began sketching ideas that blended festive elements with something uniquely local. It needed to feel both joyful and proudly Capetonian,” he explained. “I wanted the design to reflect warmth, togetherness, and hope, while still being stylish and wearable.
“The design process involved extensive experimentation. “I played around with different colours, patterns, and symbols until the concept started to take shape,” Botha said. “One of my ‘eureka’ moments came when I realised the design didn’t need to be overly complicated. It just needed to tell a story. Once I found that balance between simplicity and meaning, everything fell into place. By the time I submitted my final concept, it truly felt like a piece that captured the heart of Cape Town during the festive season.”
Revealing the specific elements he chose and insight into why they resonated with him as symbols of hope and unity, Botha shared: “My design, titled ‘Cape Town Lights of Hope’, was inspired by the spirit of unity, resilience, and celebration that defines our city. The golden mountain skyline represents the strength of Capetonians, while the glowing City Hall stands as a beacon of hope and remembrance of Nelson Mandela’s legacy. A Christmas tree in Bo-Kaap-inspired colours celebrates our cultural diversity, and two open hands at its base symbolise community and togetherness. The Robben Island lighthouse and Chapman’s Peak Drive on the sleeves reflect endurance and progress. Meanwhile, the Cape of Good Hope, beaches, and Kirstenbosch proteas highlight our city’s natural beauty. Even the hidden details – like the District Six imagery and the small heart reading ‘Share the Light’ – remind us that hope shines brightest when it’s shared.”
A design ready for the grand reveal
Hill-Lewis expressed his enthusiasm for wearing Botha’s creation: “The winning design represents the heart and soul of Cape Town. I’m honoured to get to wear this creation as a symbol of our unity and hope for the season ahead.”
While the final garment remains under wraps until its official unveiling, Botha’s achievement highlights the incredible creative talent resident in Cape Town. It demonstrates how citizens can play a meaningful role in shaping the city’s most iconic traditions.
“I hope that when Mayor Hill-Lewis wears this creation, it evokes a sense of pride, unity, and joy among Capetonians. I want it to remind everyone of our city’s resilience, creativity, and the beauty of coming together, especially during the festive season. For visitors, I hope it sparks curiosity and admiration, offering them a glimpse of Cape Town’s unique spirit – vibrant, welcoming, and full of life.”
- The winning design will be revealed at the Festive Lights Switch-On event on the Grand Parade on Sunday 30 November from 16:00. All Capetonians are welcome to enjoy free entertainment and celebrate the start of summer in Cape Town.
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