Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube, [email protected]
PREPARATIONS for the Mapressa Glam & Fashion Show, now in its fifth edition, are underway, with a grand showcase set for Midrand, South Africa, on June 6.
What began as a bold idea by local DJ, Mapressa, in October 2021 has evolved into a vibrant platform that celebrates fashion, culture and opportunity. Organisers say this year’s edition will be “bigger, better and more inclusive”, with a renewed focus on uplifting Zimbabwean talent.
Speaking ahead of the event, DJ Mapressa revealed that the competition will remain exclusively open to Zimbabweans for the foreseeable future — a strategic decision aimed at nurturing home-grown creatives before expanding to other nationalities.
“The competition is only set for Zimbabwe now, which is why you see competitors from Tsholotsho, Masvingo and Plumtree competing. That’s where they come from, and we choose Miss Mapressa Glam from there. We want Zimbabwe designers and models to first reach the South African level, so for the next seven years, it will only be Zimbabweans participating,” said DJ Mapressa.
His vision is clear: to build from the ground up and spotlight emerging talent rather than established names.
“We don’t care who designed the outfit. For the past three years, a designer in Plumtree has been taking the cup, and it’s really marvellous. It shows that talent is everywhere, even in small towns,” he said.
That philosophy has shaped the Mapressa brand into more than just a runway show. It has become a bridge connecting rural and urban creatives to regional exposure. Previous editions — including last year’s Johannesburg showcase — have drawn growing audiences and increasing recognition.
As with past events, the upcoming edition promises star power, with appearances from television personalities such as MaNgcobo from Uzalo (Dawn Thandeka King), alongside Quality Biyela, Unyawo Detective from Uzalo, Dalom Kids, Zinjaziyamluma, Fortune Dawu, Dziba le Mvula, Mr Ungayithi Vuuh (Jaycee) and Chrispen Nyathi.
Despite the glamour, organisers maintain that inclusivity remains central to the show. The competition is open to fashion enthusiasts aged 18 and above, with no joining fee and no restrictive beauty standards.
“Whether you slay the runway or turn heads with your unique street style, whether you are curvy, short, or have a bold look, everyone is allowed on the runway,” said DJ Mapressa.
That inclusivity was evident last year when the inaugural Summer Edition was held in Bulawayo. Deli Nyoni from Tsholotsho walked away with the Miss Mapressa Summer Edition crown after impressing judges in the high heels category.
This year, contestants will compete for the titles of Miss Mapressa Glam 2026 and Mr Mapressa Glam 2026. The stakes are high, with winners each set to receive R10 000. Additional incentives include professional driving lessons and a fully paid driving licence — prizes designed not only to reward but to empower. The second prize includes a fully funded weekend getaway to Cape Town, while third-place winners will enjoy a two-night stay at a guest house.
For DJ Mapressa, however, the true value of the show extends beyond crowns and cash.
“It’s more than just fashion. It’s about social cohesion, networking, and unfiltered elegance in motion. In business, it is about networking and connecting entrepreneurs with big players,” he said.
As anticipation builds ahead of June 6, one thing is clear: the Mapressa Glam & Fashion Show has grown beyond a calendar event. It is becoming a movement steadily carving out space for Zimbabwean designers and models on regional stages.
