Vic Falls creative shines in Nama debut Fashion category

Victoria Falls-based fashion designer Brightman Dlamini has reached a career milestone after earning his first nomination at the National Arts Merit Awards (Nama).

Dlamini, founder of Tocar Narrations, is nominated in the Outstanding Male Designer category at the 24th edition of the awards taking place on Saturday in Harare. He is competing alongside Rangarirai Kenias (Raengah) and Ishmael Tsakatsa (Zargue’sia) in what is the category’s debut year, a significant development for Zimbabwe’s fashion sector.

The introduction of the fashion category marks a progressive shift for the prestigious awards, long regarded as the pinnacle of artistic recognition in the country.

Reacting to the nomination, Dlamini said: “This is my first time being nominated at the Namas and that alone makes this moment incredibly special and meaningful for me. I’d like to thank the Namas for recognising us as an industry. This nomination signals a progressive step toward the development of the creative economy.”

He also acknowledged those who advocated for fashion’s inclusion at the awards.
“For a long time, the fashion industry has been overlooked in many spaces, so this inclusion marks an important turning point. I’m especially honoured to be nominated in the very first year that this category has been introduced. It feels like history in the making,” said Dlamini.

Over the past year, the designer has steadily transitioned into the runway space, taking his brand beyond local borders. One of his standout moments was showcasing the “Afflictions Collection” at South Africa Menswear Week SS25, a regional debut he describes as a proud representation of Zimbabwe.
“The collection carried strong cultural storytelling and had an international platform, which made it particularly meaningful. However, beyond the visible achievements, I believe consistency, authenticity and vision have played a key role.”

Dlamini, who was first recognised at the Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA), believes the rapid rise of his brand is rooted in purpose rather than pace.
“People often ask how it has happened so quickly. I believe it’s less about what we’ve already accomplished and more about where we are going as a brand. Above all, I acknowledge that God has a way of showing up at the right time. This recognition is both affirming and humbling,” he said.

Should he clinch the award, Dlamini says the honour would belong to more than just him.
“I would dedicate it to the industry advocates, the individuals who worked tirelessly to ensure that the Fashion category became a reality. Some of those people may never be nominated or publicly recognised, yet their efforts have created opportunities for many of us,” he said.

“While winning would be an incredible honour, this nomination already feels like a victory, not just for me, but for the entire industry. The award would symbolise responsibility as much as achievement: responsibility to continue raising the standard, building platforms and inspiring young creatives to believe that their work belongs on national and international stages.” – Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire