Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
VICTORIA FALLS-BASED fashion designer Brightman Dlamini continues to raise Zimbabwe’s profile on the regional fashion scene, having unveiled his latest collection at the SA Menswear Week held recently in Cape Town.
His regional appearance comes at a time when his work is also gaining increasing recognition locally, following his nomination in the Outstanding Fashion Designer/House category at this year’s Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA).
Dlamini, who operates under the label Tocar Narrations, will compete against Ncominkosi Sibanda of Ncoma Style Lab, Sibusisiwe Falala of SLF Apparels and Mthobie of Indwangu.
Reflecting on his SA Menswear Week experience, Dlamini described the opportunity as a powerful affirmation of his creative journey.
“To be part of such an event is incredibly inspiring — sharing backstage space with some of the biggest names in the industry, like David Tlale and other major South African brands. Backstage is where we’re real with each other, appreciating each other’s creativity. Receiving insights from industry leaders was priceless. I felt at home, part of a big movement. Representing my country from a cultural perspective made me feel very proud,” he said.
Dlamini noted that the well-organised fashion showcase offered valuable lessons for Zimbabwean creatives, particularly in terms of collaboration and storytelling.
“Talent and creativity alone aren’t enough. Great pieces are not everything. Designers must understand that fashion shows are not made for themselves alone. There’s a strong need for collaboration between visual artists, storytellers, musicians and fashion designers. That’s how we create work that tells a complete Zimbabwean story. When we unite behind one goal — narrating our culture — we can achieve great things.”
He added that part of his mission is to elevate the creative presence of Victoria Falls.
“Little to nothing is said about Victoria Falls in the creative space. Yet, I’ve received so much support from my people. Thank you to Paperbag Africa, British Council, and Those Victorian Boys for making this possible,” he said.
On his BAA nomination, Dlamini expressed heartfelt gratitude.
“I didn’t know my work was being noticed like this. Winning such an award would not only bring credibility but also motivate me to push even harder. As a young designer, it would give me the confidence to knock on bigger doors. The goal is to put Zimbabwean culture on the map and to promote imisebenzi yezandla (handcrafted works). Thank you to the BAA team for the nomination,” he said. — @mthabisi_mthire
