Brightman Dlamini Showcases Zimbabwean Creativity at SA Menswear Week
Victoria Falls-based fashion designer Brightman Dlamini continues to elevate Zimbabwe’s fashion profile after unveiling his latest collection at the prestigious SA Menswear Week in Cape Town. The rising designer, who works under his label Tocar Narrations, showcased his contemporary yet culturally rooted designs, earning admiration from regional industry leaders and audiences alike.
Dlamini’s participation at the event comes as his influence grows within Zimbabwe’s creative scene. He has been nominated in the Outstanding Fashion Designer/House category at this year’s Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA), where he will compete against Ncominkosi Sibanda of Ncoma Style Lab, Sibusisiwe Falala of SLF Apparels, and Mthobie of Indwangu. The nomination reflects his growing recognition as one of the most promising creative voices emerging from Victoria Falls.
Speaking about his experience in Cape Town, Dlamini described it as a defining moment in his career. “To be part of such an event is incredibly inspiring — sharing backstage space with some of the biggest names in the industry, like David Tlale and other major South African brands. Backstage is where we’re real with each other, appreciating each other’s creativity. Receiving insights from industry leaders was priceless. I felt at home, part of a big movement. Representing my country from a cultural perspective made me feel very proud,” he said.
He added that SA Menswear Week provided important lessons for Zimbabwean designers, emphasizing the power of collaboration and cultural storytelling. “Talent and creativity alone aren’t enough. Great pieces are not everything. Designers must understand that fashion shows are not made for themselves alone. There’s a strong need for collaboration between visual artists, storytellers, musicians, and fashion designers. That’s how we create work that tells a complete Zimbabwean story. When we unite behind one goal — narrating our culture — we can achieve great things,” he said.
Dlamini also expressed a desire to highlight Victoria Falls as a hub of artistic creativity. “Little to nothing is said about Victoria Falls in the creative space. Yet, I’ve received so much support from my people. Thank you to Paperbag Africa, British Council, and Those Victorian Boys for making this possible,” he said.
Reflecting on his BAA nomination, Dlamini said the recognition motivates him to aim higher. “I didn’t know my work was being noticed like this. Winning such an award would not only bring credibility but also motivate me to push even harder. As a young designer, it would give me the confidence to knock on bigger doors. The goal is to put Zimbabwean culture on the map and to promote imisebenzi yezandla (handcrafted works). Thank you to the BAA team for the nomination,” he said.
Brightman Dlamini’s growing profile at home and abroad signals a new chapter for Zimbabwean fashion. By blending craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and collaboration, he continues to shape a narrative that celebrates Zimbabwean identity on global runways.
