Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE #IWearMyCultureZW campaign is charting new territory. What began as a bold fashion and cultural documentation project featuring 10 of Zimbabwe’s ethnic groups has now expanded its reach, spotlighting 14 communities in a bid to deepen the nation’s cultural narrative.
Spearheaded by Paper Bag Africa in partnership with cultural curator, Gilmore Qhawe Khumalo — better known as “Gilmore Tee” — the initiative blends fashion and film to preserve and celebrate Zimbabwe’s ethnic diversity through research-driven design.
At its core, #IWearMyCultureZW is more than a fashion project; it is a national memory bank, using design and digital storytelling to ensure that Zimbabwe’s diverse heritage lives on for generations to come. Launched in 2023 at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe (NGZ) in Bulawayo, the project has grown to include the Chibarwe, Ndau and Chewa communities. The Shona group has also been explored in greater depth, with two designers interpreting its varied sub-ethnic identities.
“This expansion reflects our commitment to showcasing Zimbabwe’s full cultural tapestry. Each designer interprets the research into fashion pieces that honour heritage while speaking to the present,” said Gilmore Tee.
The cultural fashion spotlight will turn to Bulawayo and Harare from August 28 to 30 for the, I Wear My Culture Fashion Weekend — a three-day cultural experience featuring 14 designers, panel discussions on fashion as an archival tool and dialogues on blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary design.
“In the same spirit, as productions like Shaka iLembe, we aim to balance historical authenticity with modern fashion expressions. Audiences will witness how tradition inspires future-forward design.”
This year’s designer– ethnic group pairings for the #IWearMyCultureZW campaign feature a diverse and vibrant lineup: Ncominkosi Sibanda represents the Venda community, Charmaine Nziradzemhuka showcases Nambya, Brightman Dlamini highlights the San and Penelope Lacha brings the Ndau culture to life. Mbongisani Dube focuses on Tonga, Ropafadzo Mapira on Ndebele and Leeroy Sam Mapungwana explores a fusion of Chibarwe, Sena and Hwesa identities. Kundai Caryn Mangena represents Kalanga, Ray Enders features Chewa and Noliwe Mhlope presents Sotho. Nkululeko Ncube interprets Xhosa heritage, while Langelihle Ndlovu and Nonhlanhla Ncube delve into Shona subgroups. Tadiwa Karidza rounds off the group with a multi-cultural approach, reflecting the campaign’s inclusive and expansive vision.
As the project evolves, it carries the legacy of the late cultural historian Pathisa Nyathi, whose guidance was instrumental in shaping its early phases.
“Ubaba uPathisa Nyathi will always be part of this journey. Fortunately, we captured audio-visual content from our work together. His wisdom lives on,” said Gilmore Tee.
Peter Tanyanyiwa