Design Week South Africa, presented by Pinterest, will bring together the country’s leading designers, brands and makers across Johannesburg and Cape Town this October
Design Week South Africa has announced Pinterest as its title sponsor for the 2026 edition, marking a partnership that brings together two brands united by a shared belief in creativity, community and inspiration.
As a global leader in visual search and discovery, Pinterest will help amplify South Africa’s leading design platform while supporting local creative talent, ideas and perspectives on an international stage.
A partnership that celebrates South African creativity
The partnership reinforces Design Week South Africa’s mission to make design more accessible, connected and relevant.
By connecting local creatives with a wider global design conversation, the collaboration aims to showcase the depth, diversity and strength of South Africa’s design industry.
Taking place across two cities over two weeks in October, Design Week South Africa, presented by Pinterest, will create a high-profile moment for the country’s creative sector. The event is expected to attract thousands of attendees while connecting designers with local and international audiences, media and industry professionals.
Pinterest activations across Johannesburg and Cape Town
Beyond its role as title sponsor, Pinterest will collaborate with local designers, crafters and makers to deliver a series of immersive activations throughout Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Inspired by Pinterest Predicts, the platform’s annual trend report, the activations will bring selected 2026 trends to life through distinctly South African interpretations.
The initiative gives local creatives the opportunity to reinterpret global trends through a local lens, transforming digital inspiration into hands-on creative experiences.
View the entire report here.
The Shape of Us: Design Week South Africa 2026 theme
The 2026 edition will centre around the theme The Shape of Us, exploring how cultural identity, historical roots and future-focused thinking continue to shape South African design.
Participants have been encouraged to interpret the theme through their own exhibitions, installations and presentations.
When is Design Week South Africa 2026?
Design Week South Africa’s city-wide programme will feature designers, brands and creative spaces across Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Event dates:
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Design Week Johannesburg: 8–11 October 2026
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Design Week Cape Town: 22–25 October 2026
The full programme of events and Pinterest activations will be released online ahead of the festival and distributed through the official Design Week broadsheet in both cities.
