RENOWNED South African fashion designer and co-founder of the iconic Sun Goddess brand, Vanya Mangaliso, has died.

She passed away at the age of 53.

According to a statement released by the brand, Vanya died peacefully on Thursday, 26 June, surrounded by her loved ones.

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Vanya Mangaliso, a renowned designer and Creative Director of the Afrochic Heritage fashion brand, Sun Goddess. She passed away peacefully on Thursday, 26 June 2025, at the age of 53, surrounded by loved ones,” the statement read.

A trailblazer in South African fashion, Mangaliso dedicated 25 years of her life to the industry.

She led Sun Goddess, a multi-award-winning label known for celebrating African heritage through fashion.

“Vanya Mangaliso was widely respected for her contributions to South African fashion; a field she dedicated 25 years of her life to. She led her multi-award-winning brand, which has received over 50 awards both locally and internationally, proudly representing South African fashion. Her work touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on the people of her beloved country, community, colleagues, friends, and family.”

As the creative force behind a brand that became synonymous with “Afrochic,” Mangaliso’s legacy is etched into the fabric of South African cultural identity.

The family has asked for privacy as they mourn her loss.

“We ask the public and media to respect their space and refrain from any direct contact during this time.”

Paying his tribute, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula said Vanya was a remarkable woman.

“Vanya created what was called the Afro-Gucci. She was the first to commercialise African designer wear, taking it from the back room to boutique stores in top malls. She cracked the door open for Maxhosa, Bathu and others by mainstreaming African designers and brands. She brought a wider customer base to African designs with customers of all races and from all over the world taking to adorning Proudly SA brands,” he added.