Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube [email protected]
Bulawayo’s dream of reclaiming its position as a fashion and modelling powerhouse depends on the city’s ability to embrace and uplift its own talent, according to Panthers Academy model coach and groomer Mzolisi Zibusiso Mtshayisa.
Mtshayisa said Bulawayo, a city that has produced pageantry stars such as Lorraine Maphala (Miss Zimbabwe 2005), Oslie Matsikenyeri (Miss Zimbabwe 2004), Bongani Dhlakama (Miss Zimbabwe 2012), Sakhile Dube (Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2024) and reigning Miss Tourism Zimbabwe Zanele Moyo, has no shortage of creative talent. He said what the city needs is stronger collaboration, greater support for its homegrown talent and renewed confidence in its own models, designers and industry players, rather than constantly looking outside Bulawayo for validation.
Bulawayo’s fashion and pageantry scene is experiencing renewed interest, with young creatives pursuing opportunities in modelling, design and commercial fashion. However, Mtshayisa believes greater unity among industry players is needed to unlock the city’s full potential.
“One of the biggest challenges in Bulawayo’s modelling industry is that we often operate in separate camps instead of working together. Healthy competition is important, but division only limits our growth,” he said.
His remarks come as Panthers Academy prepares to host its Fashion Showcase and Crowning Night on August 8, an event designed to unite models, designers, photographers and other creatives while creating a platform for emerging talent. The event will feature runway presentations showcasing collections from local designers, performances by Smallerdj, Kimoe and Anele Nkundlande, as well as a judging panel comprising professionals from the modelling and creative sectors.
“If we want Bulawayo to regain its place as a powerhouse in fashion and modelling, we must value and support our own talent before constantly looking outside the city for validation,” said Mtshayisa.
He said the Mr & Miss Panthers 2026 event goes beyond selecting winners, as it seeks to build confidence, leadership and purpose among young models.
“Mr & Miss Panthers 2026 is more than a crowning ceremony, it is a platform with purpose. We want to bring together models, designers, photographers and creatives under one roof while encouraging contestants to become confident leaders and advocates for causes they believe in,” he said.
Mtshayisa, who moved from modelling into coaching and grooming, said his experiences in the industry motivated him to create opportunities for aspiring models who often lack mentorship and exposure.
“My journey as a model showed me that talent alone is never enough. I met many young people with incredible potential, but they lacked guidance, exposure and someone who genuinely believed in them.
“As I grew in the industry, I realised my purpose was becoming bigger than just walking the runway or competing for titles. It was about creating opportunities for others as well,” he said.
Mtshayisa said the academy’s focus is on developing well-rounded models by equipping them with confidence, discipline, communication skills and professionalism.
“When grooming aspiring models, I look beyond physical appearance. Confidence, discipline, willingness to learn and a positive attitude are qualities that stand out the most. Skills can be taught, but character and consistency shape successful models,” he said.
He added that the academy’s showcase is aimed at proving that Bulawayo can host high-quality fashion events capable of competing with those held elsewhere.
“Our goal is to deliver a premium experience that rivals the best while remaining proudly rooted in Bulawayo. We want people to leave feeling that they witnessed not just a pageant, but the beginning of a movement to elevate the city’s fashion and modelling industry,” he said.
