Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo-Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
“IT still feels surreal,” says Hildah with a glowing smile, moments before her debut collection hits the runway.
“To go from being the girl on the catwalk to the woman behind the designs — it’s a dream I’ve carried for years.”
Yesterday marked the start of Zimbabwe Fashion Week, which will conclude on Saturday, with more than 10 designers and fashion talks taking place at the Hyatt Regency, Harare.
For Hildah, it’s more than just another fashion show — it’s a personal milestone.
A former top model and international pageant queen, she is stepping into a new spotlight: showcasing her very first collection under her own brand, Hilz Couture.
“I have been part of this show for so many years as a model,” she says.
“But this is the first time I’m here as a designer. It’s emotional. It’s empowering. And it’s something I’ll never forget.”
Her journey from runway to design echoes the path of several Hollywood icons who started in front of the lens before building fashion empires — Victoria Beckham being a prime example. Once best known as a pop star and model, Beckham defied expectations to become a respected figure in high fashion.
Hildah is now blazing a similar trail, rooted in African heritage and a global fashion perspective. “I’ve walked on some of the world’s biggest stages — Miss Supranational in Poland at 17, Miss Intercontinental in Sri Lanka, Top Model of the World in Egypt, Miss Tourism International in Shanghai, and Africa Fashion Week at the African Union in Addis Ababa,” she recalls.
“Every experience shaped my eye for fashion. I was already designing in my mind long before I started sketching.”
Her debut line under Hilz Couture consists of 10 statement pieces — eight for women, two for men — designed with a global traveller in mind. The collection, she explains, is inspired by people “guided by a compass, not a clock” — those who value the journey just as much as the destination.
“I wanted to create pieces that are wearable, stylish and functional,” she says. “From bold floral prints to breathable linens in fresh summer colours, each item tells a story. Whether you’re a fashionista or someone who prefers effortless chic, there’s something in this line for you.” Fabric sourcing, she proudly shares, is done locally — supporting Zimbabwean fabric stores and artisans.
“Our country is full of talent and resources. We just need to shine a light on it.”
Zimbabwe Fashion Week, which launched in 2009, has become the country’s leading fashion showcase, drawing designers, models, stylists and media from across Africa.
This year’s event is no different — packed with creativity, culture and collections that reflect the diversity of Zimbabwean fashion.
For designers like Hildah, the platform is crucial. “We don’t have the visibility we deserve,” she says. “There’s so much talent here — designers, models, stylists. My hope is that platforms like this can attract international scouts and buyers, people from agencies like Elite Models, who can give our creatives the global exposure they deserve.”
Hilz Couture is more than just a brand name. It’s an extension of Hildah’s identity — “Hilz” taken from her first name, and “Couture” representing the art of high fashion and craftsmanship she aspires to uphold. And while the runway debut is a huge leap, it’s just one part of her multifaceted life.
“I’m also a supermom,” she laughs. “That is what my sons call me. I juggle school runs, work and everything else with prayer, planning and passion. It’s not easy, but when you love what you do, you make it work.”
She credits much of her inspiration to Oprah Winfrey, a woman who shattered expectations and built an empire in the face of adversity.
“Oprah was once told she wasn’t fit for television because of how she looked,” Hildah reflects. “But she never gave up. She’s the reason I believe that destiny delayed is not destiny denied.” Throughout her career, Hildah has worked with fashion powerhouses like David Tlale in South Africa and collaborated with designers like David Alford and John Ablaza from the Philippines. Each experience helped shape the designer she is today.
As her models line up backstage, dressed in bold colours, fluid lines and carefully styled looks, Hildah takes a deep breath. “This is just the beginning,” she says with a quiet confidence. “I’m not just showcasing clothes. I’m telling my story — one piece at a time.”
