Online Reporter
Ethel Ncube
Organisers of the highly successful DJ Mapressa Glam and Fashion Show (formerly Mapressa July), a fashion extravaganza run by South Africa-based DJ and social media personality DJ Mapressa, are bringing the event home, to Bulawayo.
This follows repeated calls from Zimbabweans who, year after year, watched with admiration as their fellow countrymen in South Africa immersed themselves in the fashion spectacle. Now, they too will get to experience the high-glamour celebration that has become one of the hottest fixtures on the South African entertainment calendar.
Born Promise Sibanda, DJ Mapressa, who hails from Tsholotsho, confirmed that the Zimbabwean summer edition of the Mapressa Glam and Fashion Show will be hosted at the Impala Conference Centre in Bulawayo, following the recent SA edition held last month.
The fourth annual Mapressa Glam and Fashion Show brought an undeniable sparkle to Johannesburg, dominating social media with its visual feast of opulence and cutting-edge style. Held at a luxurious hotel, the red-carpet event attracted a constellation of celebrities, including popular South African actors Cebolenkosi Mthembu (Detective Nyawo) and Thandeka Dawn King, both known for their roles in the hit television series Uzalo. They rubbed shoulders with Zimbabwean personalities such as Lady N, award-winning musician Mzoe 7, businesswoman and philanthropist Charity Sizani Tshuma, and several other creatives spanning music, design, and performing art.
The show also crowned Plumtree-born Brian Sibanda and Nobuhle Ndlovu as Mr and Miss Mapressa Glam 2025.
In an interview, DJ Mapressa confirmed preparations for the Zimbabwe edition were already underway.
“We’re having the Mapressa Glam first summer edition in Bulawayo, dubbed ‘The Big Summer’. We’re inviting every fashion lover in Zimbabwe to showcase their design talents and personal style,” he said.
DJ Mapressa said the event is open to all Zimbabweans, regardless of background or experience, an inclusive approach that aims to give ordinary people access to a glamorous world typically reserved for elites.
“It’s about uplifting the spirit of fashion and grooming, but it’s also about empowering people in the community. We especially want those from rural areas like Nkayi, Binga, and Tsholotsho to attend and feel included,” added DJ Mapressa.
What sets this event apart is its unshakable commitment to local empowerment. DJ Mapressa is investing in Zimbabwean talent, from the models and designers who will strut the runway, to the judges who will help select the next Mr and Miss Mapressa Glam.
“We want everything to be from home, that’s why we opted for local judges. The goal is to make sure Zimbabwean creatives are seen, celebrated, and given a global platform. Designers, stylists, makeup artists, and even photographers will benefit,” he said.
Mapressa’s model deliberately challenges the mainstream fashion industry’s narrow standards. There are no restrictions on body type, height, weight, or age. Anyone with the confidence and style to grace the stage is welcome. For local creatives, this is a rare chance to participate in a major event without facing the gate-keeping that usually blocks many from rural or under-resourced communities.
“This show is for the everyday person with talent and ambition. Whether you’re from the high-density suburbs or deep in the rural areas, this is your moment.”
DJ Mapressa explained that contestants will be grouped into categories and informed of registration procedures soon, but the call is now out for all fashion lovers to get ready.
The event also sets a standard for fashion culture. Entry will be denied to those not dressed up to par, a rule that is both iconic and non-negotiable.
“Our ushers at the gate will turn away anyone not dressed according to the theme. Even if you’ve paid, you won’t get in unless you respect the dress code. Men must wear suits, and ladies should come in mermaid dresses or formal evening wear. No crop tops, no T-shirts,” he said.
“Let’s bring back the pride of showing up. It’s not just fashion, it’s a lifestyle,” Mapressa added.
Mapressa Glam is more than just a show as it has become a marketplace of opportunities. During the Johannesburg edition, scholarships were awarded, business collaborations were struck, and entrepreneurs networked with professionals in the fashion and entertainment industry.
“We’ve seen people’s lives change after attending or participating in this show. Some launched their own brands and others found mentors. We want Bulawayo creatives to also have that shot,” Mapressa said.
Mapressa is a diverse entertainer whose career as a DJ, comedian, MC, and events curator has earned him both local and international recognition. But at the core of it all, is his vision to nurture emerging talent, especially from under-represented areas like Bulawayo and the broader Matabeleland region.
Many of today’s young creatives cite him as an inspiration, a self-made success who has consistently opened doors for others.
Through his fashion platform, he has challenged norms, uplifted individuals, and created an authentic African space for glamour and expression.
