Latest news with #ThandoMangaliso
News24
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- News24
Entrepreneur Vanya Mangaliso, Sun Goddess founder, dies aged 53
The South African fashion world is mourning the loss of a true icon, Vanya Mangaliso, who passed away at the age of 56 on Thursday, June 26, 2025. The news of her passing was announced through the Instagram page of her renowned luxury fashion brand, Sun Goddess. Vanya was a visionary designer and Creative Director who left an indelible mark on the industry with her celebration of South African heritage through fashion. Read more | Veteran actress Meme Ditshego passes away at 60 Sun Goddess located in was founded in 2001 by Vanya alongside her husband, Thando Mangaliso, their brand was born out of a desire to harvest stories and images of South African traditions through fashion. This multi-award-winning brand has garnered significant recognition both locally and globally solidifying its position as a blueprint for African fashion boasting an impressive collection of over 50 awards in its 24 years of existing. Throughout its illustrious career, Sun Goddess has had the privilege of dressing some of the most admired A-listers for prestigious awards ceremonies and events, with some of their notable international stars being Hollywood actress Gabrielle Union and American soul and R&B songstress Goapele. Although Vanya's cause of death hasn't been disclosed but it's said that she 'passed away peacefully' surrounded by loved ones. Her family shared a statement. 'It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Vanya Mangaliso, a renowned designer and Creative Director of the Afrochic Heritage fashion brand, Sun Goddess. She passed away peacefully on Thursday, 26 June 2025, at the age of 53, surrounded by loved ones,' reads the statement. Tributes and condolences flooded the comments section, with industry moguls alike such as David Tlale sending their heartfelt condolences. The family has since asked for some privacy from the public during these difficult times. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SUN GODDESS (@sungoddessafrolux)
News24
a day ago
- Entertainment
- News24
‘A massive loss': Sun Goddess' Vanga Mangaliso dies
Vanya Mangaliso, renowned designer and co-founder of South Africa's iconic fashion brand Sun Goddess, has died. According to a statement shared by the brand on its official Instagram account on Friday, the 53-year-old Mangaliso died on Thursday. 'The family kindly requests privacy as they grieve this immense loss,' the statement reads. 'Vanya Mangaliso was widely respected for her contributions to South African fashion - a field she dedicated 25 years of her life to. She led her multi-award-winning brand, which has received over 50 awards both locally and internationally, proudly representing South African fashion. 'Her work touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on the people of her beloved country, community, colleagues, friends, and family.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by SUN GODDESS (@sungoddessafrolux) Mangaliso founded the successful Sun Goddess in 2001 with her husband, Thando. Over the past 23 years, the couple have dressed some of the most admired A-listers for prestigious awards and ceremonies. Some of their designs have been worn by international stars, including actress Gabriel Union, who visited one of their stores in 2022. The brand has showcased at some of the biggest platforms globally such as the London Fashion Week, and the Singapore Fashion Week. In an interview with Drum in 2024, Mangaliso expressed being incredibly proud over the brand's contribution to South African fashion. 'We are incredibly proud to have contributed to defining and ushering in a new era of South African fashion,' she said. Reacting to the news of Mangaliso's passing, fellow designer David Tlale said: 'Oh, Vanya Mangaliso. You ran your race - a true African woman who shaped South African fashion and heritage. Your work and efforts to unite the fashion industry will forever be remembered and continued. Your positive and kind spirit lives forever. To the Mangaliso family, may the Lord comfort you and guide you through this difficult time.' The SA Fashion Week official account also expressed sadness over Mangaliso's death: 'We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Vanya! A massive loss to the industry.' Uyanda Sibiya (formerly Mbuli) described Mangaliso as a 'storyteller in cloth'. 'You didn't just create garments - you curated heritage. You didn't just walk the runway - you walked history back to itself. And now, gone too soon - you've taken your final bow,' Sibiya wrote in the comments.'
