Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The nation was plunged into mourning last year with the passing of Pathisa Nyathi, a revered historian and cultural preservationist whose contributions to Zimbabwe’s artistic and heritage landscape were both immense and enduring. A prolific writer, Nyathi authored more than 80 books and countless journals, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
His selfless life and unwavering dedication to cultural preservation are now being honoured through the “I Wear My Culture ZW” project, launched in 2022 as a celebration of Zimbabwean identity. This year’s “I Wear My Culture Fashion Weekend,” which began on Thursday and ends today in Harare and Bulawayo, pays tribute to Nyathi through the Pathisa Nyathi Pavilion.
The National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo has been transformed into a special space where fashion lovers can engage with visionary designers, uncover the stories behind their creations, and elevate their wardrobes with unique pieces that blend cultural pride with contemporary style.
A Press statement from the project read, “In a heartfelt tribute to the late Pathisa Nyathi, an invaluable pillar of the I Wear My Culture journey, the project unveils a curated showroom and pop-up at the Natural History Museum in Bulawayo. This exclusive space celebrates emerging and established designers, showcasing their creations and sharing their stories with attendees at the finale.
“Visitors will discover merchandise crafted by young talents, available for purchase, alongside a dedicated display honouring uBaba Pathisa Nyathi’s enduring legacy. This curated space is a celebration of his legacy — a dynamic hub where tradition meets innovation, and where the stories, literature, and artistic visions of the designers come vividly to life.”
Gilmore Qhawe Khumalo, the project’s Creative Director and Curator, expressed his deep gratitude for Nyathi’s influence.
“His invaluable input and enduring contribution to this project are treasures we will always cherish. He shaped our vision, guiding us with wisdom and grace. We come together in celebration — not only of his legacy but also of the beautiful tapestry of our diverse ethnic groups, united in pride and cultural richness.”
Khumalo further acknowledged the vital role played by the Nyathi family.
“Our deepest gratitude extends to the Nyathi family, whose generosity and trust have made this homage possible. They have shared their father with us all, allowing us to curate this space in his honour. From the very inception, uBaba was more than a consultant — he was a guiding force, shaping our approach and nurturing the next generation of designers with selfless wisdom and unwavering support.
“His mentorship helped us capture vital cultural insights, which the young designers transformed into contemporary garments. We are forever grateful for his guidance, forever inspired by his dedication to nurturing culture and creativity.”
The event isn’t just a tribute to Nyathi’s legacy; it also features a series of thought-provoking discussions aimed at deepening the understanding of cultural preservation. The discussions include “Archiving and its importance in preserving culture and heritage,” with panellists such as Chipo Kanyumbu from the British Council Zimbabwe and Mellisa Nonhlanhla Moyo of Amagugu International Heritage Centre.
Another discussion, “Building the generational gap through storytelling,” features contributions from Ncominkosi Sibanda of Ncoma Style Lab and UK-based designer Kazna Asker. The event will also feature a discussion on “The art of research (finding your unique selling point),” with insights from designers like Noliwe Mhlope of Nolie B Designs and cultural heritage practitioners like Allington Ndlovu from Amagugu International Heritage Centre.
Since its inception, the “I Wear My Culture ZW” project, supported by the British Council, has redefined fashion as a vessel for cultural storytelling, celebrating Zimbabwe’s rich mosaic of ethnic groups. It has garnered international acclaim, producing an award-winning documentary, a striking fashion film, and a compelling look-book that serve as living archives of tradition and modernity. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
