The Gift of CALARTS: From Africa to LA, Supporting a San Student's Design Journey

The creator's unyielding ideology of chasing truth as they nudge closer to their dream is an underplayed feat—the bravery or stubbornness to dream. Gift Kgosierileng takes on CALARTS, emerging as an authentic tale in the wake of Africa's cultural and creative renaissance.

From "Upington to Los Angeles," we are privy to witness a village fairytale in transit. A designer's truth. A Khoi man's legacy. The gift to change how we see ourselves as Africans. This is his story, his journey to the world.

Often, we are require much visual prowess and taste to see genius for genius. At a moment's glance, one can see and appreciate Gift's distinction creativity or at least his acquired ability to express and imprint his identity on garments.

Earth tones tapered with his San heritage, with the signature 'kgetsi' or 'hassion'. His work is layered and equivocally asks the viewer to strip away the societal fabrics that often refrain us from our innate truth. Are we all but not modern slaves learning to find our freedom in creative expression? Gift's journey to CALARTS is more than just an educational pursuit; it's a mission to challenge and redefine the narrative of African art and design on a global stage.

Gift, the visionary behind No Modern Slave, embarks on an exciting new chapter as he begins his studies at the California Institute of the Arts (CALARTS) this September. To support his journey, we are launching a fundraising campaign to help cover his tuition fees. With your support, we can ensure that Gift has the opportunity to further develop his incredible talent and continue to make a significant impact on the world of art and design.

The Campaign

To support Gift Kgosierileng's journey to the California Institute of the Arts (CALARTS) as its first San student and only the second African to be enrolled. Our goal is to raise over +R807,500 in 52 days to cover his tuition. With 14 out of 323 winter ponchos sold, we've raised R35,000 so far. You can contribute by purchasing a poncho for R2,500. Alternatively donating directly to our GoFundMe page, or sharing the fundraiser campaign within your networks.

Campaign Objective

• Total Amount Required for 1 Year of CALARTS: +R807,500

• Campaign Duration: 52 Days

Current Progress

• Ponchos Sold: 14 out of 323

  • Total Raised: R35,000 (from poncho sales)

• Go Fund Me Donation: $0 of $60 000

How You Can Help

1. Purchase a Winter Poncho: Each poncho is priced at R2,500. By buying a poncho, you not only get a beautifully crafted piece of clothing but also contribute directly to Gift's education fund.

2. Donate to the GoFundMe Page: If you prefer, you can make a direct donation to our GoFundMe campaign. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to our goal. You can donate at GoFundMe - Help Gift Get to California Institute of the Arts.

3. Spread the Word: Share this campaign with your friends, family, and social networks. The more people who know about Gift's journey, the closer we get to making his dream a reality.

An Extension of one's truth: The Village Art Expo

As an extension of Gift's truth, he reflects back one last time in honor of what has prepared him for a new ask. He bids farewell as an unsung hero, closing off his African arc with a series of design workshops for fashion students at Victory Yards over the past few weeks, among other activities for his close-knit community.

This feat preludes a final exhibition offering of the Village Art Expo in his hometown, Kuruman, in the Northern Cape. In addition to celebrating 30 years of democracy in South Africa and enriching the heritage and artistic traditions of the Khoisan people, the Village Art Expo features meticulously crafted costumes that blend indigenous elements with contemporary design. Gift will be responsible for creating 25 unique costumes for the Village Art Expo, which will be available for auction. This collection, called “The Slave's Truth,” showcases Gift’s various African influences and celebrates the journey of freedom and cultural expression.

In Gratitude and Greatness

With our support, we can help Gift continue to push the boundaries of creativity and make a lasting impact on the world of art and design. Join us in this journey and be part of something truly special. Let's help Gift achieve his dreams and, in turn, inspire a new generation of creators and visionaries.