Design with Clout

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https://www.nandos.co.za/explore/creativity/design-clout

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At Nando’s, we believe in the influence and the power of design, which is why we work to nurture, develop and showcase Mzansi design talent. One of the ways we do that is by firing up initiatives like Clout, a print and online publication that tells the story of South African design. Clout has thus far presented two annual issues – 2018 and 2019. The publication is put together by a team of publishing experts under the leadership of Nando’s Design Programme Creative Director, Tracy Lee Lynch.

Most recently, at 100% Design South Africa 2019, which ran alongside Decorex Joburg at the Gallagher Convention Centre from 7 to 11 August 2019, the Clout team, with the support of Nando’s, launched the inaugural Clout Designer’s Industry Days pitch sessions. From over 100 entries, 26 designers were selected to pitch. Over the course of two days, they wowed the judging panel of industry experts with their ideas, and four winners were chosen. They will now go on to benefit from the network that the Nando’s Design Programme provides, as well as a year-long participation in a business development support programme initiated by Nando’s.

The four winners are Rene Forbay of Rene Forbay Designs, Khosi Leteba designer of the Bodulo collection, Glorinah Mabaso of LED Interiors and Siyanda Mbele of Pinda Interior Design.

However, due to the high level of design on show, the story doesn’t end there for the remaining candidates. Says Tracy, “We were blown away by the standard of the designs presented and the passion and professional manner in which all shortlisted candidates responded to the opportunity. Because of the extraordinary standard, we intend working with many of our shortlisted candidates. This will happen across our various platforms, which include the Portal to Africa (the global Nando’s online showcase and ordering platform), and our business development support programme. In addition, we plan to connect selected candidates with some of our existing designer-maker partners to collaborate with and prototype their concept designs.”.

In addition to the pitch sessions, Tracy was invited to create the recreational space at 100% Design SA. “I wanted to introduce the work of new and established designers in an interior setting that inspired, delighted, and amplified a positive story of where we are now,” she says. Working together with Nando’s, Tracy created Clout Café, a space that not only celebrated South Africa design, but also presented designers with new opportunities to collaborate and create new pieces.

Nando’s Hot Young Designer Talent Search 2018 finalists also got an opportunity to collaborate with more established designers as their original pattern designs adorned chairs and tables, thereby introducing this fresh new talent to the broader audience at the 100% Design event. “I love the idea of visioning the Nando’s portal project as a South African design theatre,” she says. “Essentially, we're taking SA design to the world stage through the Nando’s casas, so as a concept it works so well.”

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