The City of Cape Town has extended the deadline for its Wear the Hope Design and Make Challenge by a week, giving creatives until Friday 9 October to submit their entries.

The challenge, now in its second year, invites residents to create a wearable design that captures the spirit of this year’s Festive Lights Switch-On theme, ‘Beacon of Hope’.

The challenge encourages entrants to draw on Cape Town’s rich heritage for inspiration. From the colours and textures of its communities to the stories passed down through generations, the city’s cultural landscape is a source of creative possibility.

Entrants are asked to imagine a wearable creation that celebrates hope, connection and a shared future.

A chance to shine

The winning creation will be worn by the executive mayor as part of the Festive Lights Switch-On celebrations on Sunday 29 November on the Grand Parade, placing one local creative’s vision in the spotlight at one of the city’s most anticipated annual events.

The winner will also nominate a community project to receive R5 000 worth of art supplies, ensuring that their moment in the spotlight helps inspire creativity in others.

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Who can enter

The challenge is open to emerging designers, students, self-taught makers and anyone with a bold idea. Whether formally trained or entirely self-taught, entrants are encouraged to celebrate where the city comes from while imagining the Cape Town they want to create together.

How to enter

Entrants must submit a design sketch or concept with a motivation of no more than 300 words explaining how it reflects the ‘Beacon of Hope’ theme.

Entries are submitted by email to wearhope@capetownfestivelights.co.za.

Visit Wear the Hope Challenge for more information.

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