10 Things You Should Know About Gilmore Tee

Gilmore Tee, born Gilmore Qhawe Khumalo, is a dynamic Zimbabwean media practitioner, cultural manager, curator, and fashionista who has made significant contributions to various fields, including fashion, media, and community engagement. Known for his creativity and passion for promoting African culture, Gilmore has become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Here are ten key insights about him that highlight his achievements and influence.

1. Early Life and Education: Born on March 21, 1990, in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Gilmore Tee, whose full name is Gilmore Qhawe Khumalo, attended McKeurtan Primary School and later Gifford High School and St Gabriel’s College. He further pursued a Higher Diploma in French and studied Development Studies at the National University of Science and Technology.
2. Media Career Beginnings: Gilmore’s media journey began at just 17 when he became the Newsletter Editor for the Radio Dialogue Youth Press Bureau. His early work in journalism and creative writing set the stage for his future accomplishments.
3. Founding Deck Magazine: In 2009, upon his return from the UK, where he represented Zimbabwe at the Global Youth Summit, he co-founded Deck Magazine, alongside notable personalities like actress Mbo Mahocs.
4. Recognition as a Young Leader: In 2019, Gilmore was named one of Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30, highlighting his impact and contributions to various sectors, particularly in media and culture.
5. Founder of The PiChani: He is the visionary behind The PiChani, a significant PAN African lifestyle and networking platform that brings together young entrepreneurs and leaders from diverse industries. The platform hosts an annual dress-up event in Bulawayo, which has gained considerable acclaim.
6. Involvement in Major Events: Gilmore has played key roles in various high-profile events, including being the Zimbabwean representative for the MTV Africa Music Awards and hosting the red carpet at the Zimbabwe Music Awards multiple times.
7. Innovator in Digital Storytelling: In 2021, he launched eMoyeni Digital Storytelling, an initiative aimed at equipping content creators with skills to navigate the digital landscape effectively. The program has significantly benefited many aspiring creators.
8. Cultural Advocate: Gilmore led the “I Wear My Culture ZW” research project, which explored and celebrated Zimbabwean cultural heritage through contemporary fashion, resulting in a successful documentary and look book that received several awards.
9. Fashion Icon and Media Contributor: He has written for notable publications like GQ South Africa and Glamour Magazine, earning recognition as a style icon and fashion influencer in the region.
10. Awards and Recognition: Gilmore has received numerous accolades, including the Style Icon of the Year at the Zimbabwe Fashion Week Awards and the Forty Under 40 Africa 2023 award. His work continues to influence and inspire young leaders and creatives across Africa.

Gilmore Tee exemplifies the potential of young leaders in Africa, merging culture, media, and entrepreneurship to foster innovation and connectivity across various sectors. His journey highlights the importance of creativity and collaboration in driving social change.