Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The Mapressa Glam and Fashion Show finally made its Bulawayo debut on Saturday night, marking a significant milestone on the city’s fashion calendar.
The 2025 Summer Edition proved to be a resounding success, celebrating Bulawayo’s vibrant cultural heritage and creativity in spectacular style.
A brainchild of South Africa-based, Tsholotsho-born socialite and entertainer DJ Mapressa, the event was created to celebrate Zimbabwean identity, creativity, and unity.
Since its launch in South Africa in June 2022, the event has grown into a dynamic cultural movement, attracting top celebrities and entertainment figures from across the region.
Its inclusive approach is what sets it apart, with no restrictions on background, body type, height, weight, or age; anyone with confidence and passion can take part.
As per the host’s instructions, attendees arrived dressed to the nines, perfectly embracing the event’s glamour theme.
Mapressa complemented the stylish crowd with a well-executed red carpet, which was a hit with guests and added an extra layer of sophistication to the evening. The models at the Bulawayo edition were a diverse and talented group. With contestants hailing from various towns and districts, including Plumtree, Kezi, Lupane and Tsholotsho, the event highlighted a rich mix of styles, confidence, and originality.
Some models stood out for their experience and confidence on the runway, while some participants appeared slightly nervous.
However, this did little to diminish the overall showcase, as the pageant’s main focus was on glamour and self-expression rather than perfection.
For their efforts, the semi-finalists received certificates and R500 each, but it was Delicious Nyoni from Tsholotsho who stole the show, being crowned Miss Mapressa 2025.
Her glowing costume and matching handbag captured the judges’ and audience’s hearts, earning her the title and a R10 000 cash prize.
The Bulawayo edition delivered an impressive line-up of performers, including Gog’ Bekezela, Mzoe 7, Mr Ungayithi Vuu, Zinja Ziyamluma, and Insimbi ZeZhwane. Pageant queens Mpumie and Nobuhle Ndlovu were among the special guests.
At the same time, a surprise appearance by South African Uzalo actor Detective Nyawo (Cebo Mthembu) added extra star power to the night.
On the entertainment front, the performances kept the audience on their feet throughout the evening.
Gog’ Bekezela set the mood with a moving tribute song dedicated to the late Babongile Sikhonjwa before energising the crowd with his hit track Bekezela.
Surprise act DJ Zandimaz thrilled the audience with Ngisemathandweni, while Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi turned back the clock with a fiery performance of her classic Malaika.
Zinja Ziyamluma showcased Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage with a stunning traditional wear display, and Mr Ungayithi Vuu and Insimbi ZeZhwane kept the audience singing and dancing throughout their sets.
A standout moment was when the guest of honour, Sipho Mazibuko made a grand entrance with the Miss Rural Zimbabwe models.
Mazibuko praised the event’s innovation and future potential.
“The Mapressa Glam Fashion Show is a new concept for Bulawayo — unique and inclusive, giving designers a chance to shine by showcasing their creations on all body types.
“I’m super proud of Mapressa and his initiative. When I retire, I know the industry will be in capable hands,” she said.
However, she said this event, which only focuses on Bulawayo and Matabeleland, deserves national recognition.
“It’s like a mini Durban July, and I believe next year it will grow in leaps and bounds.
“However, I feel it shouldn’t just be about Ndebele culture or Matabeleland; it has the potential to become a national sensation.”
