Chronicle Editor
Mbulelo Mpofu, Showbiz Reporter
Curator Fortune “FoFo” Mguni has refuted the idea that his soon-to-be-held ThuTshani business networking platform is competing with Gilmore Tee’s PiChani.
Lately, Bulawayo has been a squared circle with divided opinions as to which event people must attend between ThuTshani and PiChani.
ThuTshani or PiChani? has been the frequently asked question in the precinct and beyond with polls being conducted to ascertain preferences.
PiChani is an exclusive Pan-African lifestyle and networking event that integrates young achievers and leaders from across all sectors of influence, namely creative, diplomatic, tourism, finance, agriculture, mining, civic and other sectors. It is held annually.
Loosely translated as “Show up”, ThuTshani’s inaugural meeting will be held at Beresford in Killarney on Saturday.
Mguni articulated what ThuTshani is, saying it is a space for businesses and brands to come together for transactions and networking.
“ThuTshani is a space for businesses and brands in fashion, food, and drinks (not limited to other sectors), to come together and showcase their products and services and promote new business developments. It’s a high-end red-carpet event that focuses on giving patrons a first-class service.
“There’ll be something for everyone with food trucks, games, exhibitions, a fashion show, beverage stalls, and many more surprises to come,” said Mguni.
From the red-carpet entrance to a photo booth and 360 camera experience, patrons are set to be treated to a lot of entertainment activities. The artistes’ line-up will be opened by a live band and will include huge names in the industry.
The ThuTshani and PiChani debacle was even taken to Twitter where a poll by AmpStreet saw ThuTshani having the lion’s share with 70 percent of the 272 votes cast.
The two networking platforms also trended on Twitter with ThuTshani being number one and PiChani being number two. The competition was also placed on sponsor grounds since PiChani will be sponsored by an international liquor brand Jameson while ThuTshani will be sponsored by Mguni’s own gin, Bantu Royal Gin.
Mguni said ThuTshani is not a counter-event to Gilmore Tee’s PiChani which will be in its fourth edition on Saturday as well.
“ThuTshani is not countering PiChani. Rather, it’s complementing it and giving people a pool to choose from. I must admit, PiChani is the dopest thing that has happened in Bulawayo in recent history as it has pulled quite a huge pool of celebrities. One can’t compete or even compare with it.
“We also have different philosophies where PiChani sees esteemed personnel invited while with ThuTshani, everyone has the chance to join. So, with that said, I don’t see the competition and countering,” said Mguni.
He added: “PiChani and ThuTshani will co-exist without any clashes and disturbances. ThuTshani is ThuTshani, PiChani is PiChani and these two are different in every facet.”
Tweeps took to Twitter to voice their sentiments on the two events and diverse ideologies were thrown around. One Samkeliso Tshuma said the formation of ThuTshani was always going to cause problems for PiChani.
“When it comes to PiChani and ThuTshani, how would you feel if PiChani was your brand? Let’s answer honestly and truthfully. We all know why ThuTshani was created. If those who weren’t invited to PiChani were invited, were you going to understand the intention behind ThuTshani?” she quizzed.
Kelvin Tshuma rooted for the success of ThuTshani on Saturday.
“All I know is that ThuTshani will rock more than PiChani. Phela ePiChani, one has to behave and maintain standards while acting rich, eThuTshani s’yabe s’yangena lehottie zikhale strong,” he said.
In the past, PiChani has managed to bring in celebrities like Vuyo Brown, Asaph, Luminous, and South African socialites. – @eMKlass_49
Online Reporter