When it comes to the world of fashion and style, Masego “Maps” Maponyane is carving out a name for himself as the IT man (that means one to watch, not information technology).
To most of us, fashion is a funny, amorphous industry to make a living in. There are few qualifications. Intuition, connections and experience seem to be paramount to getting ahead. But, just as there are blueprints for business, tips and tactics for marketing or HR, strategies for law and accounting principles – hidden behind the surface elements of showbiz and fashion, there’s a code. And Maponyane has cracked it.
From magazine ad campaigns to films and TV, he’s everywhere. He’s also the guy who gets voted sexiest bloke, best-dressed etc. Accolades of this sort are serious currency in the big business of fashion and celebrity. Maponyane though, is a lot more than just a pretty face for ad campaigns. Model he may be, but he’s also an actor, TV presenter, MC, creative director and most recently he’s ventured into the world of a tailored suits with a range called OCD in conjunction with Joburg outlet Augustine.
A creative chameleon, its unlikely Maps will ever tether himself to one vocation. His latest direction? “Currently I’m working on a new sports website, as well as getting involved in the mobile application side of things in development and investments. Other than that I just shot a drama series. I’m also getting ready to shoot a film this year and continuing with some more fashion design, as well as modeling campaigns.”
#BestAdvice:Be patient
“People like to say that it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. But I’ve always preferred to take the approach that if you’re that good at what you do, then you become the person that the ‘who you know’ wants to know. Patience is key to any success – if you love what you do, really believe in it and are willing to work, then success will follow naturally.”
*By Tudor Caradoc-Davies
