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    Now reading: this is cape town, straight up

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    this is cape town, straight up

    We meet six creatives as they elaborate on what it's like growing up in South Africa.

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    Hana Jayne Sho, 18

    What do you do? I’m a model and photographer, and professional stuff-doer — illustration, directing and styling. How would you describe Cape Town to someone who’s never been there? It’s buzzing with creativity and some of the friendliest, diverse people you’ll ever meet. There’s a huge mountain too so you’ll never get lost, ever. The creative scene and street culture is undoubtably thriving. What was the best thing about growing up in South Africa? When I was younger I was never influenced by what was going on in Europe or America. I personally feel that allowed me to develop in my own way. @hanajayne_

    Gavin Mikey Collins, 24

    What do you do? I’m a creative director, stylist and co-founder of @diskotekah. Where do you look to find inspiration? Nature is a constant source of inspiration. So are my friends, and the internet. How would you describe Cape Town? Cape Town is the most beautiful city in the world but it has an ugly past. It’s an amazing place to live because the people are fascinating, the scenes that are growing and the world is starting to take notice. If you could ask the world one question, what would it be? How are Crocs still a thing? @gavinmikeycollins

    Tessa Cloete, 26

    What do you do? I’m creative and musician and a model. What’s your fave thing to wear? Confidence. It has gotten me through many a questionable ensemble. Where do you look to find inspiration? Everywhere: art, nature, architecture, music! It all bleeds into one and inspires me to have fun and be daring. How would you describe Cape Town? It truly is a vibrant city filled with diversity and history. There’s an air of hope and excitement, that anything could happen. Stay ready. What’s the best thing about being young in 2017? We challenge the status-quo and question everything. We’re fucking cheeky, curious bastards. I love it! @tessacloete

    Aiden Groenewald, 17

    What do you do? I’m a student. How would you describe Cape Town to someone who’s never been there? It’s a vibrant city with unpredictable weather which makes it impossible to plan an outfit ahead of time. It’s also home to some of the most hospitable people. Where do you hang out? Cape Town Central at a burger joint called Stacked. What’s the best thing about being young in 2017? Changing the norms of society. Having little responsibility and getting to do whatever you want. @crookedsocks

    Sanele Xaba, 22

    What do you do? I’m a model and activist. Where do you look to find inspiration? Pharrell Williams when it comes to clothing, otherwise I find inspiration from home and my friends. How would you describe Cape Town? It’s a very beautiful, picturesque city, very free spirited, creative, and rich with history and diversity. What’s the best thing about being young in 2017? Being able to think for ourselves and challenge the masses, break stereotypes and go against the norm. @sanele_xaba

    Hannah Mather, 21

    What do you do? I’m a full time student at the University of Cape Town, and model part time. What’s your fave thing to wear? My absolute favourite thing to wear is an Armani pinstripe suit I bought at a car boot sale. Where do you look to find inspiration? I don’t think I consciously look for inspiration, but I’d say I find it from other young people. However I’d say my main source of inspiration is usually the voice that society silences. What was the best thing about growing up in South Africa? I grew up in London and then moved to Cape town as a teenager. I love that being South African made me give a shit about a lot of things most aren’t confronted with. Living here has taught me gratitude, love and compassion. @grandmasterhan

    Credits


    Photographer Katinka Bester
    Casting direction Gavin Mikey Collins / Katinka Bester
    Editor Mattia Ruffolo

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