In 2004 Botha won the ‘Design your future ‘bursary and she
started her career at North West School of Design. ‘Always taking on extra
work. From day one she was very focused on quality and deadlines’ – explains principal
Marlene Oosthuizen when asked about Botha’s student career.
In 2006 she won the Designer of the Year award and this
achievement was a promise of only great things to follow. Anel continued after her graduation with an
internship at Micheal Bezuidenhout and she ventured forward by opening a studio
with NWSD Alumni Jose De Canha.
Both went their separate ways and Botha started to make
waves within the fashion industry. Lectures express that she was often hard on
herself during her studies but in the end it has paid off.
Since then she has been described numerous times as ‘Designer
to the Stars ‘, and the name truly does say it all. Botha’s designs have been
seen on the red carpet at every prestigious event. Her bridal abilities stretches
across the country and matric girls flock together when the season takes wind.
Botha is also the official sponsor of the Miss South Africa
Pageant for evening wear and she continues to dress the winner during her year
of reign.
But most importantly, Anel is at heart still the same kid
she was when she started at NWSD. You would never pass her without being
greeted by a warm smile and a kind “Hello Darling!”. Her graze and elegance continues
to be an inspiration to our students and graduates!
