Online Reporter
Gift Moyo [email protected]
THE City of Bulawayo has invited local fashion designers to submit their portfolios for an opportunity to showcase their collections at the Durban Fashion Fair in South Africa.
The selected designers will have an opportunity to feature their garments on the runway at the prestigious fashion showcase, which is scheduled for September 16 to 18.
In a social media announcement released yesterday, the local authority called on interested designers to submit photographs of their best work for consideration.
The initiative is expected to give Bulawayo’s fashion talent greater exposure while creating a platform for local designers to connect with regional and international players in the industry.
The Durban Fashion Fair is regarded as one of Africa’s leading fashion events, bringing together more than 60 regional and international designers to showcase their latest collections.
The event features designers from South Africa and neighbouring countries, including Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia, among others. Local designers, Kundai Caryn Mangena, Ncominkosi Sibanda, Sidumiso Tshuma, Nkululeko Ncube, Sheenah Moyo, Nkanyeziyethu Malunga, Zanele Dube, and Saneliso Mpofu have participated in the past editions.
Beyond showcasing collections, the fashion fair provides designers with opportunities to network with industry professionals and attract the attention of international agencies, brands and other potential partners.
For Bulawayo designers, participation could therefore provide an important stepping stone towards expanding their careers beyond Zimbabwe and positioning their work on the international fashion stage.
Bongani Ndlovu