Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Youth Interactive Writer
For many Zimbabweans, the mere mention of Epworth conjures images of crime, drug and substance abuse, prostitution and other social challenges.
Yet beneath those stereotypes lies a vibrant community that continues to produce talented musicians, athletes, academics and entrepreneurs determined to rewrite the suburb’s story.
Among them is young fashion designer and visual artist Allan Mususa, popularly known as Cavar, who is using art and fashion to steer young people away from drug and substance abuse while proving that Epworth is home to hardworking and creative individuals.
The 12-kilometre journey southeast of Harare’s Central Business District, which he travels regularly to sell his wares in the capital, has become the backdrop for Mususa’s inspiring mission.
Through painting and fashion design, Mususa has not only built a successful clothing brand, Cavar 99 CLO, but is also equipping young people with artistic skills to keep them productively engaged.
As drug and substance abuse continues to destroy the lives of many young Zimbabweans, with Epworth among the hardest-hit communities, Mususa believes art can become a powerful weapon in changing lives.
“A lot has been said about my community, but I can tell you that there are good people in Epworth who are determined to change that perception,” Mususa told The Herald Saturday Lifestyle.
“I want to be among the young people making a positive difference through fashion and art while helping to fight drug and substance abuse.
“I have a lot of potential and I am teaching young people drawing and painting so that they remain occupied.
“Many young people end up abusing drugs simply because they have nothing meaningful to do.
“I cannot afford to turn a blind eye when we can all play our part in changing the narrative.” Mususa said he also draws inspiration from President Mnangagwa’s campaign against drug and substance abuse, saying the initiative has encouraged young people to pursue productive ventures.
“The Second Republic has done a lot to empower young people, and I am encouraged by the emphasis on youth development.
“The President has consistently spoken against drug and substance abuse, a cause that we have also been championing in our community.
“I believe in Vision 2030 because it presents opportunities for young entrepreneurs like us in the informal sector.
“He has encouraged young people to come up with viable business proposals so they can access funding.
“I appreciate the support that is being extended to young people.”
He added:
“Vision 2030 is for all of us, and as young people we should embrace it.
“I have even incorporated that vision into some of my clothing designs because I believe we all have a role to play in national development.”
Mususa’s journey has not been an easy one.
He lost his father, George Mususa, in 2007 while he was still a toddler, leaving his mother to raise him and his sibling under difficult circumstances.
“My father died when I was still very young, and my mother had to struggle to raise the two of us.
“There were times when we went to bed on empty stomachs because life was not easy. Those hardships motivated me to work hard and help put food on the table.
“My mother now works in South Africa and, thankfully, she has remained safe despite the xenophobic attacks that have occurred there.” Art, he says, became his therapy during some of life’s darkest moments.
“When I was in high school, people used to mock us because of our background, and some still do today.
“I turned to art as a form of healing, and today it has become my livelihood.
“It is through art that I am now able to provide for my family.
“I have also worked with several fashion stylists, including Ropafadzo Sadomba, who has a rare skin condition.”
Mususa credits legendary musician Leonard Zhakata for inspiring his outlook on life.
“Leonard Zhakata’s music is therapeutic and his humility inspires me.
“Among my generation, I also admire Bagga because he is hardworking and proudly wears my designs.”
Having built a growing reputation in Zimbabwe’s fashion industry, especially fashion shows, Mususa believes his journey is only just beginning.
More importantly, he hopes his success will inspire other young people from Epworth to embrace their talents, reject drugs and become ambassadors for a community whose positive stories are too often overshadowed by negative stereotypes.
