'I'm loving it: Polokwane-based model on experiencing New York Fashion Week for the first time

Polokwane-based model Wilhrisca Britz experienced New York Fashion Week for the first time – taking to the runway on Sunday, 10 September, in a unique design by talented young designer Evan Hirsch. 

Hirsch, who has half a million followers on TikTok and over 65 million viewers worldwide, presented a Spring/Summer 2024 collection featuring transformative, shapeshifting gowns created from exquisite flowing fabrics and artistic motifs. 

Wilhrisca Britz on the runway for the NYFW SS24 collection of renowned young designer Evan Hirsch.

Photo: 30 Street Studios

Wilhrisca Britz with transformative designer Evan Hirsch.

Image Courtesy Evan Hirsch Fashion

"I flew half-way around the world from a small town in Polokwane, Limpopo Province, and landed in New York, where it's my first time to do international modelling," explained Britz to News24. 

"I had the honour of presenting the latest collections for some incredible designers, such as the supremely talented Evan Hirsch, as well as Danielle Jené Designs and Drisha Closet from Runway 7."

The pink-haired Britz is a pageant trainer in conjunction with Miss Global Princess Africa. "I had a little girl in SA that I trained pageantry for, and she was supposed to come and represent in New York, but unfortunately, the organiser had to postpone the pageant. So I asked her, 'Do you need any more adult models?' and she said 'yes', and took my Z card, my model comp card, and that's how I ended up in New York."

"It was totally unexpected, but now I'm loving it and can't wait to model again next year."

Wilhrisca Britz walks the runway for Drisha Closet during Runway 7 Spring / Summer 2024 Collections at Sony Hall on September 09, 2023 in New York City.

Photo: Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Runway 7/A