Skolopad reflects on Durban July fashion and plans a return

Skolopad reflects on Durban July fashion and plans a return! Former socialite and nurse Skolopad, real name Nonhlanhla Qwabe, has spoken out about being ahead of her time in the fashion game.

Reflecting on her iconic 2017 Durban July appearance, where she wore a dress made of grass to represent her hometown of QwaQwa, Skolopad said she was initially mocked.

“At the time, people laughed at me and asked what was going on. They didn’t know that we would be here in 2025,” she told Daily Sun.

Skolopad reflects on Durban July

This year, the Durban July theme inspired many celebrities, such as Anele “Ney The Bae” Zondo, Hope Masike, and Eva Modika, to embrace a natural, earthy aesthetic—mirroring what Skolopad did years ago.

Missed But Not Forgotten

Although she didn’t attend this year’s event, fans clearly remembered her fashion legacy. Skolopad explained that she had been in Johannesburg, emceeing an event, and missed all the messages and calls asking about her whereabouts.

“When I woke up, my phone had a lot of messages and missed calls from people asking why I didn’t attend. They thought I’d nail the look again this year,” she said.

No Invitations, All Heart

Skolopad revealed that she had always self-funded her appearances at the Durban July and was never officially invited.

“I used to attend the event from my pocket… That’s part of the reason I stopped,” she admitted.

A Return on the Horizon

Skolopad, who retired in 2023, shared that she plans to make a comeback in 2027, but not as the flamboyant persona fans once knew.

“I’ll see you guys in 2027. I’m coming back, but not as Skolopad. I buried her years ago. I’ll be back as Nonhlanhla Qwabe,” she said, hinting at a redefined identity for her return to the public eye.