Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube, [email protected]
IF aura had a face, it would undoubtedly have been Ezebhubesi at the recently held Mapressa Glam and Fashion Show in South Africa. When guests gathered for the 2026 edition on June 6, primed for an evening of fashion, glamour and style, few could have imagined that a musician would become the event’s most talked-about figure long after the runway lights had dimmed.
Draped in royal blue velvet, crowned with imposing horns, wrapped in a flowing cape and carrying a golden cane, Afro-Imbube musician Brian Sibanda, popularly known as Ezebhubesi – The Lion’s Pride, emerged as the undeniable centre of attention.
As models showcased dazzling designs and fashion enthusiasts put their best looks forward at an event that saw
Bulawayo-born Thabitha Banda crowned winner of the fifth edition, it was Ezebhubesi’s regal presence that stole the spotlight. His presence was not merely noticed; it was impossible to ignore.
The outfit, inspired by the image of an African king and the strength of a lion, transformed Sibanda into a living symbol of royalty and cultural pride. Every detail carried meaning. The royal blue signified wisdom, loyalty and power, while the gold accents symbolised prestige and success. The striking horns embodied strength, resilience and leadership. The flowing cape conveyed authority and responsibility, while the golden cane reflected guidance and the journey of a leader who has overcome adversity.
“This look was inspired by the image of an African king and the strength of a lion. I wanted to create something that symbolises courage, leadership, dignity and cultural pride. The message is simple: never be afraid to stand out and embrace who you are. Fashion is not only about looking good; it is about telling a story and making a statement,” Sibanda said.
The show-stopping ensemble was the product of a creative collaboration between Sibanda and designers Sylveh Couture Pty Ltd, Reedel Clothing, MP Creations and Ruth Sibanda, all working around a concept they dubbed “The Lion King of Elegance.”
For Sibanda, fashion is far more than mere clothing.
“My brand is built around leadership, confidence, culture, excellence and inspiration. Fashion is one of my strongest communication tools because it allows me to express my values visually before I even speak. Through fashion, I celebrate African identity, creativity and individuality,” he said.
While many attendees were captivated by the royal aesthetic, Sibanda said the real message lay beyond the elaborate attire.
“Behind the royal appearance is a humble man with a big vision and an even bigger heart. The outfit may represent royalty, but my true purpose is service, inspiration and leadership. I want people to remember that greatness is not defined by what you wear, but by how you treat others, the values you uphold and the impact you leave behind. The crown is symbolic, but the character beneath it is what truly matters.”
Born on July 27, 1988, in Mbimba Village in Bulilima District, Plumtree, Sibanda is a multifaceted creative whose talents span music, fashion, event management, modelling, scriptwriting and entrepreneurship. He is the founder of Ezebhubesi – The Lion’s Pride, a brand rooted in African heritage and Afro-Imbube traditional music – a genre he developed by fusing traditional African sounds with contemporary Afro-pop influences.
Drawing inspiration from his father, Zephania Sibanda, affectionately known as The Big Animal, as well as icons such as Lovemore Majaivana, Mbongeni Ngema and Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Sibanda has built a career centred on celebrating African culture.
Since launching his professional music career in 2018, he has released albums, Zangen’eZebhubesi, Journey of My Life and Amankengane, alongside several successful singles. His song Dear Bambo Lwami earned Song of the Year honours at Amaqhawanentaba FM, while collaborations with leading artistes have expanded his reach across Zimbabwe’s cultural landscape.
Yet beyond the music and fashion lies a broader mission – to restore and promote African culture and its values.
“I want to inspire young people to dream bigger, work harder and believe in their potential. I want my legacy to be remembered not only for style, but also for creating opportunities and making a positive difference in people’s lives.”
This year’s edition of the Mapressa Glam and Fashion Show, a premier inclusive cultural event and beauty pageant founded by South Africa-based, Tsholotsho-born entertainer and entrepreneur DJ Mapressa (Promise Sibanda), broadened its appeal with the introduction of four new categories: Most Glamorous Couple, Most Glowing Woman,
Most Glamorous 40 Years Plus, and Indoda Elomkhaba Omuhle (Best-Dressed Man with a Distinguished Physique).
Renowned for celebrating Zimbabwean identity, creativity and diversity, the event continues to provide a platform where fashion, networking and empowerment intersect. Unlike conventional pageants, Mapressa Glam embraces participants of all ages, heights and body types, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and self-expression.
Buoyed by the success of this year’s edition, organisers have already announced plans to host another Mapressa Glam Summer Edition in Bulawayo later this year.
