Zimbabwean Designers Shine at 2025 Durban Fashion Fair

Zimbabwean fashion made a striking impression at the 14th Durban Fashion Fair (DFF), held from September 17 to 19 at the Durban Exhibition Centre. While multi-media star Somizi Mhlongo closed the event with a show-stopping runway debut on September 21, emerging designers Ncominkosi Sibanda and Kundai Caryn Mangena captured global attention, proving that Zimbabwean creativity is ready for the international stage.

Both designers earned their spots through the British Council-supported “I Wear My Culture Fashion Gala,” curated by Paper Bag Africa. The initiative brought together 14 Zimbabwean designers with talents from Durban and the UK, providing international exposure and a platform to showcase Zimbabwe’s rich cultural narratives.

The fair, themed “The Awakening,” celebrated rebirth, resilience, and Africa’s cultural resurgence. Over 60 designers participated, transforming the Durban Exhibition Centre into a vibrant showcase of innovation and artistry.

For Kundai Caryn Mangena, founder of Caryn Amani and a recent Chinhoyi University of Technology graduate, the experience was transformative. She opened the fair with an all-female collection highlighting resilience and empowerment. “Participating in Durban Fashion Fair opened my eyes to fashion not just as art, but as a dynamic industry full of possibilities,” Mangena said. “I’m proud of my craftsmanship and the stories my pieces tell. The future of Zimbabwean fashion is undeniably bright.”

Ncominkosi Sibanda, founder of Ncoma Style Lab and a Durban University of Technology alumna, presented a collection inspired by her Venda heritage, blending contemporary trends with cultural authenticity. Her pieces resonated deeply with audiences. “DFF was profoundly affirming. It pushed me beyond my comfort zone, showing me that culture, identity, and emotion can be expressed powerfully through fashion. Collaboration is key, we elevate each other, and African fashion deserves to be seen,” Sibanda stated.

Their participation was made possible through collaboration between the City of Bulawayo, eThekwini Municipality, and support from the British Council Zimbabwe. Both designers acknowledged Paper Bag Africa for facilitating their debut, highlighting the importance of collective effort in elevating African fashion to global platforms.

Sibanda described DFF as a catalyst for creativity. “This experience has renewed my confidence to stand unapologetically in my artistic voice. Platforms like these allow us to innovate, leverage technology, and elevate our industry to new heights.”

The success of Sibanda and Mangena signals a broader renaissance in African fashion. Through storytelling, heritage, and exceptional craftsmanship, Zimbabwean designers are demonstrating their ability to compete and lead on the world stage. Their achievements highlight a new era where Zimbabwean fashion is both culturally rooted and globally relevant.