Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AS the City of Kings and Queens celebrates Bulawayo Day today, creative entrepreneur and cultural ambassador Nomakhosazana Khanyile Ncube, popularly known as Zana ‘Kay, has taken to social media to reflect on her lifelong bond with the city that shaped her.
Zana ‘Kay, the founder of A Tribe Called Zimbabwe, a fashion brand that celebrates Zimbabwean culture and heritage through fashion and architecture, penned a heartfelt tribute to Bulawayo. She chronicled her journey from childhood in the city’s suburbs to her rise as a fashion trailblazer and cultural custodian.
“I was born in Bulawayo. I attended preschool and primary school in Bulawayo. In 1997, while in primary school, I was nominated to attend a Theatre Arts programme for children at Amakhosi Theatre under Cont Mhlanga.
“I then attended high school in Bulawayo, a high school named after King Mzilikazi. Do you know how cool it was reciting Mzilikazi kaMashobana at Mzilikazi High School, located in Mzilikazi suburb? Epic! I was there from Form 1 to 6, and in my last year, I was Headgirl,” she wrote in her celebratory post.
Zana ‘Kay’s journey of achievement in Bulawayo did not stop there. At 19, she was crowned Miss Bulawayo and later went on to become Miss Zimbabwe 1st Princess. Her academic path led her to Bulawayo Polytechnic, where she pursued architecture and graduated with distinction after designing a Modern Ndebele Cultural Village for her final project.
“While in university in Cape Town, I officially launched A Tribe Called Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. The creative business celebrates culture and heritage through fashion and architecture.”
Through her brand, she has designed unique tribal fashion pieces such as Ndebele crowns and cowhide capes. Her work has earned her multiple accolades, including Outstanding Fashion Design Awards at the Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards. Zana ‘Kay has also dressed influential cultural figures, including Ndebele royalty and respected community leaders.
“Bulawayo is deep in my heart and I’ll always be a proud Bulawayo Queen,” she declared, ending her message with, “Halala Bulawayo. Happy Bulawayo Day!! Masiqhubeke loBulawayo!!”
