Mubochwa not leaving Ncwane

Bruce Ndlovu
Despite shifting focus to Zimbabwe in the last few months, Zimbabwean fashion guru Thembani Mubochwa is not abandoning South African gospel star Sfiso Ncwane and his other South African celebrity clients. Mubochwa, who won the top designer award at the Durban July last month, has in the last few months moved from his South Africa base as he seeks to make more fashion moves in Zimbabwea��s still developing fashion scene.

Mubochwa is Ncwanea��s official designer, having come up with wedding outfits for the gospel star and his wife.

a�?My younger brother Newman Mubochwa is the one in charge when Ia��m not around in South Africa. Sfiso Ncwane and all other artistes are part of our clientele base even when Ia�?m not in South Africa as long the studio is still operating,a�? he said.

Mubochwa said that his relationship with Ncwane would continue because it went beyond professional bounds.

a�?Sfiso and I are family. We have come far since 2007 when I worked on his wedding suit. He introduced me to many South African celebrities that are part of my clientele and our relationship has grown from business to a family affair,a�? he said.

Mubochwa said that he was now focused on growing his brand in Zimbabwe.

a�?My focus is now is my home country and working on being part of building the foundation of the fashion and beauty industry in Zimbabwe. Ia��m busy working on establishing TZM properly in Zimbabwe and improving the availability of my ready to wear clothes,a�? he said.

Mubochwaa��s menswear is already available in Harare while Bulawayo is next on his rollout after he showcases at the Intwasa Fashion Show while next week he will be releasing his tailored suit samples that will be available in stores as well.