The City of Cape Town is proud to announce that Marnus Botha from Somerset West has been named the winner of the inaugural Wear the Hope Challenge, a public call-out inviting all Capetonians to submit concepts for Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis’s official festive season top this year. Read more below:
The challenge, launched as part of this year’s Festive Lights Switch-On celebrations, under the theme “United in Hope,” encouraged members of the community to contribute ideas that reflect the city’s resilience, cultural diversity, and spirit of togetherness.
While the final garment remains under wraps until its official unveiling, the mayor expressed his enthusiasm: ‘The winning design represents the heart and soul of Cape Town and I’m honoured to get to wear this creation as a symbol of our unity and hope for the season ahead,’ said Mayor Hill-Lewis.
For the judges, fashion designer Victor K, and costume designer and art director Widaad Albertus, who reviewed the shortlist of entrants separately, the winning concept stood out for its heartfelt symbolism and ability to weave together iconic elements of the city’s heritage, landmarks, and natural beauty into one story of hope – that also clearly articulates the festive season.
A shout out to Karon Botes’ whose entry was also noted of a high standard by the judges for its simple elegance and unique approach to festive wear, highlighting the diversity of creative spirit and talent resident in Cape Town.
Ultimately, it was Botha, who walked away with top honours this year, and who remarked that: ‘I wanted to share an idea that captures what Cape Town means to me. Our city has been through challenges, but we always find ways to rise together, and I wanted the mayor’s festive top to reflect that spirit of unity and hope. It’s an incredible honour to know my concept will be part of such a special occasion for all Capetonians.’
The Wear the Hope Challenge underscores Cape Town’s commitment to celebrating creativity, giving citizens the chance to play a role in shaping one of the city’s most iconic traditions.
The Festive Lights Switch-On event will take place on the Grand Parade on Sunday, 30 November 2025 from 16:00. All are welcome to come and enjoy the free entertainment on offer, and to get dressed in their own festive finery to mark the start of summer in Cape Town.
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