When MaXhosa Africa founder Laduma Ngxokolo debuted his Autumn/Winter 2026 “SIYIKULTURE” collection in Paris, the goal was to blend Xhosa heritage with evolving contemporary movements. However, a specific segment of the presentation—a routine by dancer Robot Boii inspired by the Skhothane subculture—has left social media divided.
The performance, which saw dancers spilling custard onto a carpet in a nod to the Skhothane practice of “destructive consumption,” has raised questions about cultural authenticity and the ethics of runway storytelling.
The Performance: Custard on the Runway
The Skhothane movement, which peaked in the early 2010s in Gauteng townships, was defined by flashy designer brands and symbolic acts of waste—like pouring expensive alcohol or custard on luxury items—to prove one’s status and “boast” against economic hardship.
During the Paris showcase, Robot Boii and his troupe brought this energy to the international spotlight. While the routine was intended to celebrate the “vibrancy and urgency” of South African youth culture, many viewers felt the execution missed the mark:
- The Authenticity Debate: Critics argued that without “real” Skhothanes (like Material Don Dada) involved, the performance felt like a “bastardisation” of a very specific township identity.
- The Luxury Clash: Former MaXhosa models and fans expressed shock that the high-end label, known for its strict garment representation, would allow custard—a symbol of ritualistic destruction—to be used around luxury knitwear at a global event.
MaXhosa’s Vision: Culture is Evolving
Despite the backlash, the “SIYIKULTURE” collection remains a significant milestone for the brand, which is currently in its fourth consecutive season on the official Paris Fashion Week schedule. For Laduma, the inclusion of Skhothane elements was likely an attempt to position South Africa not just as a fashion player, but as a foundational contributor to global movement and dance.
