7th Edition
Editor’s Desk M
aking the world a better place is my aim. Since its inception *Zim Influencers Magazine* has played an exquisite role in educating, informing, supporting, empowering and entertaining its targeted audience. It has surpassed any human expectation in its growth and is quick to broaden its horizons. The fast-growing magazine has left no stone unturned in its quest to fulfil the interest of people from all works of life in terms of fashion, motivation, business, music, art, to mention but a few. The *Magazine* also features unique sections which gives a platform to many Zimbabwean influencers to retell their stories, entirely exposing the backbone of their success in order to inspire others. The *Magazine* has also been successful in creating a conducive platform for people from all age groups which has it receiving overwhelming response from the public, (which is entirely good for advertising with us). The brains behind the *Magazine* have an enormous passion in community building and development. Their continuous hunt for talent in a native’s child makes it clear that a man’s deeds lives forever and the good ones create stars in the dark.
Christine Nhamo +79991371838
Thamsanqe Ncube +905391001297 ziminfluencersmagazine@gmail.com
Contents Meet Cover Model .................................06 Keep Moving Foward ............................08 Beauty Brand..........................................12 Becoming Relevant ...............................14 Marshall Chingwaru ............................15 Brains and Talent.. ................................18 Fashion & Fabulous ..............................19 Queen Posh ............................................24 The Dandy Gentlemen .........................28 HL Classique .........................................34 Hot Fashin Line ....................................47 Toxic Relationships ..............................51
The Power Of
Determination Mark Mudzinga
Exclusive with Mark Madzinga
M
akomborero Mark Madzinga known as Mark Marko was born and bred in Highfield, Harare. He is a devout born-again Christian, who was happily married to Nomfundo Silindelo Xaba Madzinga since April 2015 and they were blessed with a beautiful daughter. His wife passed away in April 2019. With his father being a priest, Mark has grown up in ministry and has always found himself in leadership positions within the church from a very young age.He completed training at New Life Bible Insitute with a Diploma in Theology. At age 16, he was told of his pastoral anointing and that one day his music would get the attention of kings. Mark has grown from strength to strength from first playing the keyboard in 2004, to working with his first local artist, Rute Mbangwa in 2008 to touring Algeria in 2009 representing Zimbabwe at the 40-yearly Pan African – Festival, to being band director for Zimpraise in 2016, to present day where he is directing some of the best bands in the country. He is also producing his own music and has to date released songs such as Helele with Dudu Manhenga-Muparutsa. A new album is
currently in the works. Mark has attained Grade 8 in Music Theory, a Jazz Piano diploma from Berklee College (USA) and a Music Mixing and Mastering Diploma from Point Blank Music School (UK) among other qualifications. He is also studying Music Production with Berklee College. He is the owner of Destiny Music & Entertainment. He has also worked in the Music Department at Eaglesvale High School, Sharon Primary School and St John’s College on a part time basis and also as Music Director or assistant to jazz and gospel greats such as Prudence Katomene, Zimpraise, Pastor Gee, Janet Manyowa among others. He also produced and directed Faith Ministries Borrowdale’s (BCC) first Live DVD recording. All this has inferred upon him vast experience within the industry. Mark has a strong love and passion for seeing musicians from all walks of life gain access to tools that can encourage and empower them. He also is passionate about encouraging the discouraged through music. He believes that he is “Here to encourage and empower, till we make the world a better place!” Living up to this, he has shared the stage with renowned inter-
national artists such as Donnie McClurkin, Joanita Bynum, Clarence Grant, Hiram Coopman, Jonathan Rubain, Israel Houghton, Jabu Hlongwane, Sipho Makabane, Zaza Mokhethi, Ntokozo Mbambo, Nqubeko Mbatha, Dr Tumi among others on their visits to Zimbabwe. Locally he has worked with Jesse Priestly, Amara brown, Zimpraise, Pastor G, Prudence Katomene, Dudu Manhenga-Muparutsa, Janet Manyowa among others. Mark Madzinga is a force to be reckoned with, a multi-talented man. He wears many musical hats as a pianist, teacher, music/band director, producer, songwriter and owner of Destiny Music & Entertainment. Mark believes in creating music from the heart that inspires hope, gives encouragement and strengthens people’s faith. He is currently Janet Manyowa’s Music Director and also the assistant to the Music Pastors at New Life Covenant Church. Mark travels with Bishop Tudor Bismark, his spiritual father, who is a world renowned itinerate speaker, playing piano/organs for him as he preaches.
6
V
ision
W
K
e are living in interesting times and more is required of us now in terms of leading a defined life than ever before. We can easily be driven and tossed by the winds of trends out there and lose track of what’s important. Social media is hyper-active right now, technological trends are hard to keep up with, information is available in abundance at the click of a button. Trying to keep up with everything can be very exhausting. It also results in a lack of identity, lack of direction and lack of effectiveness. To be effective in this generation, we have to make choices. At times these choices can be tough as they can go against what ‘everyone else is doing.’
eep Moving Foward
will walk in and out of your life at will, taking what they want from you whether it’s your precious time, resources or even a piece of yourself.
a time when I lacked direction in my life. I was living a wild life with no sense of direction but by God’s grace, I found an amazing woman, full of love and virtue. She was always well I’m not advocating for hate. Far poised but goofy too and very from it. I am actually an advocate down to earth. She could switch for love. Having been married to from hosting very important a woman that loved very much, people to dancing her shoes off losing her through a painful on the dance floor. Let me admit death process taught me that that she was an awesome danclife is short and full of so many er. She knew herself. She was questions, but love is the answer. in touch with her strengths and To get to a point where you can weaknesses. Above all, she had genuinely love someone else, you so much love for God and His must start from a point of self-re- people. Having had the chance spect and self-love. People who to meet such an individual in have no respect for themselves this lifetime is a privilege I will will seldom have respect for cherish forever. When she passed others. I’m sure you have heard away, I realized that I was faced of the statement that goes ‘hurtwith a unique opportunity and ing people hurt others.’ Even the that is to share this great message bible says we must ‘love others as of love that I experienced. I am What I am saying is each one we love ourselves.’ It’s not selfish thoroughly convinced that the of us at an individual level has to set goals and boundaries for progress of our youths out there, to be very intentional about the yourself. It is actually the healthi- is tied to the private victories information we feed our minds est option which creates a healthy we must win in defining who on, about the career choices we environment for all. We can rewe are and what winning, and make, about the friendships late better with each other when success means to us individually, we keep, about our beliefs, our each of us knows their worth and knowing ourselves fully, having values and the principles we live the value they bring to this table respect for ourselves and appreby. The structure of our lives called life. Lack of direction as an ciating our individuality. All this must be built on a foundation of individual results in unhealthy will create self-love that naturally clearly defined boundaries we set relations with others. Such relaflows to others through respect for ourselves. We must respect tions breed chaos, toxicity, hate, for their own individuality and ourselves enough to take the time manipulation, depression and so appreciation for their uniqueness. to define what success means to many other unhealthy situations At the end of it all, we become a us. If you don’t set boundaries for that do the world more harm better people, who create a better your own life, you will be treated than good. world. like a doormat by every meme, joke, rumor, news or trend that Let me quickly share on my By Mark Marko is out there. If you don’t respect encounter with love. I fell in love yourself, no one else will. People with Nomfundo, my late wife, at
8
Advertise Here
Queens Are Not Born, They Are Made And Created By Love And Hardwork.
“
Faith Candy
B E
A U T Y
Get To Know Faith Candy
P
opularly known as Faith Candy is Faith Naphazi, born and raised in Zimbabwe. She is a well-known multi-talented woman involved in many trades in Zimbabwe. Her un deniable ambition has left her wearing so many hats. She is an amazing Philanthropist, Musician and Actress. She has featured in many movies and local dramas and she has appeared several times on national media platforms like ZBC, Zambezi magic and Castlly. From a young age, Faith Candy has always been a very inspiring and daring individual. She is the model who won Miss Curvy Zimbabwe People’s Choice in 2018. Faith Candy is a mother to a beautiful daughter Shanyqua with so much passion and hope to positively impact the Zimbabwean community. Apart from being humble, she is an awesome Christian lady who believes in urging others to work on cultivating self-confidence.
Faith, at what age did you discover that you wanted to become your own boss and what really transpired prior to that decision?
Around 6 years actually. When we were kids, we always played a game called ‘mahumbwe’ and surprisingly the only title I wanted was the ‘boss’. At school whenever there was need for someone to lead other students, I was always the one to be chosen. I didn’t understand why but I guess they just saw a leader in me. I remember one time in my childhood when I was asked of my aspirations, I plainly pointed out that I wanted to own a cosmetic company that produces lip-glosses. Growing up I was someone who wanted to experiment a lot, I could mix a lot of skin products for example, taking campor mixing it with turmeric powder trying to see how it would glow on my skin. I kept doing that until I noticed a big change on my skin and people were loving the new skin too. That made me excited.
I am so much in love with your beauty skin care line, what really inspired you to start this?
One day I woke up on the front page of the local paper H-metro saying I had bleached my skin. This article had caught so much attention and it went viral on all social media platforms. Many people made a huge
joke out of it, some insulted me but there were a few people who actually texted me wanting to know more about how I had achieved such a flawless skin. This made me realize how my little passion was about to be discovered. My first two face creams were Turmeric face creams for dry skin and Glowing then Exfoliating face cream which was for acne, spots and skin exfoliation!
Where do you derive your motivation when you begin feeling like quitting? Firstly, l pray to God. He always gives me the strength to keep going. Secondly, when I feel like Quitting, I remember that, Pain is Temporary and Greatness Lasts Forever. “At the end of pain is success” so to anyone reading this, never give up on something you really want. That’s my policy.
Well, for some of us with strict skin care routine, which range of products are you offering so far?
Oh well I have everything you need: face creams, body butters, lotions, soaps, shower gels, etc!
Faith, do you think a skin status has something to do with one’s self confidence? Oh Yes! Skin problems can affect
one’s confidence and self-esteem. Good skin always represents you. A vibrant and happy woman is seen through her skin tone. My theme say to my customers is, “Go get it girl, the sky is yours”.
People are terrified of burns and skin reactions; how best should one trust your products?
Before l bring my products to the people, I take them to several dermatologists to approve them. People shouldn’t worry they are in safe hands. We also get high ratings and feedback from our customers and that has influenced people from all over the world to order my products. We pride on valuing our customers and providing the required information as advised by our dermatologists.
Beyond doubt, you’re meant for this, which other products should we expect from your hands in the coming years?
Oh wow where can I begin? In years’ time I will be having all skin beauty products including lip-glosses, perfumes, hair products anything to do with beauty and also my wish is to have a grooming school especially for teenagers because I have noticed that most of the skin problems starts at out teenage age!
12
Quality
Becoming Relevant in our Time.
“
T
he change in relevance is evident as seen over the years, but what really is relevance? Applicable seems to be the immediate go to word right? Let’s work with that.
One of the most influential leaders of all-time, the late Dr. Myles Munroe says and I quote “the greatest tragedy in life is not death but a life without a purpose.” I believe this to be true. Purpose is the foundation on which the building of life is erected. Without purpose, one ceases to appreciate the true meaning of life. No matter the change in seasons, having a sense of purpose is a stepping stone to achieving set goals. Gone are the days when all you needed to become applicable in the national, continental and global market was a university degree. Obtaining a degree is good but realize we are now in the era of skills. What you know and what you can do with what you know. Understanding and appreciation of this fact could just be a step forward to becoming relevant in this day and age. The entire scope of work as we know it has changed. Contrary to popular belief we have young people becoming CEOs at the age of 19, the same young people are taking up spaces and holding positions of influence in organizations and government. Professionals are upgrading and learning new skills in order to carry out their side hustles. Some are entirely leaving their jobs to pursue other relevant opportunities. The whole trajectory has changed. With new market demands evolving the question is, what role are you playing as a youth to remain relevant in this season? It might be in our best interest to start the process of unlearning, learning and relearning. In conclusion, I would like to highlight the importance of investing in oneself, building healthy networks and upgrading on a daily basis. How privileged we are to literally have information right on our fingertips. Be willing to pay the price. Ignorance will cost you so much more!
14
By : Marshall Chingwaru
Interview with
Marshall Chingwaru
H
ello Mr. Marshall, so it’s part of our culture as Zim Influencers Magazine to start with this popular request, can you please tell us a little bit about yourself and what exactly makes you this unique and amazing? I am motivated when I see young people achieving their dreams. I believe we are stronger and can achieve more, together. Marshall Chingwaru (Marshall_Billionaire) is an Entrepreneur, Pastor, Model and currently General Manager at JanJam Stores, one of the leading stores in the fashion Industry. I grew up in the coolest Getto “Emakhandeni” in Bulawayo and I have always seen myself as a young man on a mission. Everything I do, I do it as if I’m behind time thus, one of the things that makes me unique is that I remain true to myself. I believe anytime I try to be what I’m not I become useless. Where do you derive your motivation when you begin feeling like quitting, basically how do you manage to stay afloat in life? I get my motivation from a few people as I believe few opinions build a focused individual. First and foremost, I’m inspired by my mum who has always taught us business fundamentals from a tender age. Another one of my inspirations is my boss Cynthia Sithole (Cyn.) I call her mum. She makes sure every step I take is lucrative and I derive my strength and wisdom from her. I also
acquire motivation from my family specifically my elder sister Flame. Every time I feel like I want to quit, she always makes sure that she reminds me with her strong statement “Don’t forget that you’re a billionaire my Brother. It’s a journey, turn the pain to a blessing” that alone empowers me to adjust my focus when everything seems to be blur. Above all I get my motivation from the word of God, remaining focused and realizing that my identity is found in Christ Jesus. Well, Mr. Marshall you’re a role model to a lot of young people out there. What advice would you give a young man who is aspiring to live a successful life? I would say success is when you understand your God given purpose in life, never underestimate the profession you love. Just because everybody hates it does not mean it’s not good. If there is a demand for your particular product or skill set, the quality doesn’t really matter as demand remains constant. The most important thing is to start and develop as you journey on. More so maintain your faith in your goal and your product, and ensure you can respond to the demands of your market. Does modelling affect your career in any way as a pastor? Modelling does not affect my ministry in any way, reason being I have never done or intended to do anything that goes against my morals.
Instead, Modelling has affected my calling in a positive way. I count myself an inspiration to the Christian community notably Pastors. Welldressed ministers command attention to their audiences and they look honorable. They say the higher the position in life, the higher the criticism, how do you deal with criticism Mr. Marshall? We will always be criticized and people will say whatever they think is right to them, some will even try to define you. I have come to realize that in life learn to avoid drama, have a personal blueprint, a proven network, a roadmap and understand who you are, what you are, what you want and what you are willing to give up to get what you want. That really is the key to success. Beyond doubt, you’re one of the intelligent and influential young people I have met. Which lesson have you learnt from life so far? I have learnt so many lessons. In order for you to learn, you have to be a willing student who accepts constructive criticism. Do not take offense when rebuked but rather see it as a stepping stone to another level. What I can boldly say is I have learnt to be a risk taker, mind my own business, surround myself with purpose driven networks and I have learnt to never let the body tell the mind what to do. They will always give up, it is always tired in the morning, noon and night but the body is never tired if the mind is not tired.
15
CYNTHIA GAUYA
Brains Talent Mentor
Cynthia Gauya
A Talk With
CYNTHIA GAUYA
W
ho is Cynthia?
narrative by working harder in the Well it’s always hard face of those who doubted me. My first article was published in 2003 to satisfactorily in the Edgars magazine. The article define yourself. In most cases you find it hard to be fully changed my life for good. It made me popular at school, I started making objective, always torn between herfriends. I still needed to work on alding the truth or exaggerate facts to create a lasting impression. Objec- my confidence, so I participated in modelling. I won six titles during my tively I take myself as a goal driven short-lived tenure. I also participated lady, God fearing and determined. in sports and public speaking. I was I fully apply myself and the appetite a Senior prefect, president for Toast for achieving personal goals push Masters Club and president for Girl me and in most cases in the right Child network. Academically I doudirection. Accused of being pambled my efforts to get good grades. pered as the last born in a family of I have partnered with seasoned HR 2 kids, the desire to prove otherwise has been the major driving force. By people in consultancy as well as being a contributor to local newspapers the way people,ladies are always shy to expose their age however 27 years with HR articles but above all having published in Refereed International ago family members and friends Journals. I have occupied Acting celebrated my birth. Human Resource Manager positions and I am also into lectureship. What makes Cynthia a unique? This is a hard one. I strongly believe What is your vision in life? that my determination and focus For me, it’s about having a meaningmake me unique. Let me say this at ful life. one point at a tender age my family moved from Mutare to Chinhoyi. The move while tormented me as What advice would you give to my accent attracted attention at young woman starting their catimes received with mixed feeling reers? from colleagues and peers. Generally Believe in yourself, aim high, remain the majority laughed and at times focussed and the sky will be the mocked and attacked all the same. limit. Remember and always rememThrough verbal insults I lost conber that smooth seas do not make fidence which eventually affected skilful sailors. Turbulence of nature my grades. Parents at time as you will fight and at times appear to know them always want the best out defeat you. Always remain prayerful, of us. When we fail they say things grateful and you will never regret. that get to you. While this was a set Never focus on a closed door, look back I felt desire to prove a point for new and better opportunities. mount inside me. Reflecting on my Guys remember we live once. Make journey to where I am now, makes the best out of it. me realise how unique I am. At the age of nine, I was with this renewed What advice would you give to vigour I worked hard to change my
Youths? If you want success and a stress-free life, stay far away from your relatives. Let them be the last people to know your plans. If it is a business project, do not involve them. Do not get me wrong, I love all my relatives and I treat them with respect. However, they are the last people to know about what I am doing in life and my progress. We are all destined
for greatness and I believe you can achieve your dreams if you keep your plans to yourself. Remember this, no matter how good you are, you will always be replaced. Like they say, do not put all your eggs in one basket. Go to your 8-5pm job but have something else you are doing on the side, never rely on source of income. One source of income is a recipe for disaster. Remember always to pray for wisdom.
18
F
ashion abulous
“
A Pair of Shoes That Went A long way.
I
n 2016 I was into buying and selling ladies shoes. There was this particular pair of shoes, burgundy and black ombre, that was a bit pricey and most of my clients found it expensive so I kept it. During the same era, my passion for fashion was beginning to rage and I was beginning to look for aspirations in the Fashion Industry. I had one specific lady I looked up to for inspiration. Her vibrance, passion and style were completely inspiring. Her name is HollywoodLee. One day, I went on a movie and series search and found myself in a small backyard “movie shop”. As soon as I entered, I saw a familiar face, an inspirational face, a vibrant face, The fashionista. I am sure you already know who it was. I screamed on top of my voice “Hollywoodlee!” and she instantly looked at me with a little embarrassment. She was surely not expecting to meet anyone from social media that day especially in that place. I was so excited and try guessing what I earned that day? Haha A ‘follow-back’ on instagram, yes! to me that was gold. I sent her a message as soon as I got home and I began with the most awkward question you could ever ask a lady, ‘shoe size’. Thank God she was not offended, and by coincidence, she could fit into the pricey shoe I had kept from my business. I went to her workplace the following day and gave her the pair of heels and that’s when everything began. This simple gesture marked the genesis of my brand. In 2019, I decided to take my fashion calling to a different level. I had walked in the streets for years and many countless random people would stop to compliment my sense of style. I felt that it was my calling and my purpose of existence to venture into the Fashion Industry. I decided to host the first ever informative fashion gathering in the country
under the name Friday Fashion Fete. Unfortunately, I was a new face on the fashion scene, I knew just a little but I was with overflowing passion. Guess who I called first for support? Hollywoodlee! How could she say no after I had surrendered the expensive ombre pair of heels? On the event I saw faces that I had never met, faces whose names I heard about or could have seen their hugely followed accounts on social media. Only to mention a few, there was Lorraine Taylor (Maisondustyle), Trish Carmen, Maxine Adams (HeartofHadassah), Temdai Hunda, MissBecky, Angelica Hood, TarryMk, Tafadzwa Zimoyo, Tembani Mubochwa and many other faces. If it was soccer, that would have been my debut game. I received so much love and support though an electrical fault ruined the event which we ended up having in the dark. lol. All this could have not happened if it was not the connection I had created with Lee Madyara (Hollywoodlee). Every event, every idea every gap, every spot that I ended up taking, including the BossBabe Summit that happened earlier on this year hosted by DrRu, was as a result of the goodwill of the person I had looked up to. I guess as the bible says ‘Deep calleth unto deep’, she would push for my name because definitely you couldn’t ignore the passion I have for fashion. The moral of this story is to basically urge everyone to pull someone up. The future even looks more exciting, and the reason why this article exists is because I would like to give credit to someone, acknowledge that I did not become who I am by myself, there was a helping and a pulling-up hand. It’s also for you to realize that in whatever you want to achieve, look up to someone and seek people who will help you become who you
want to be. The existing Image Consultant, Stylist and Brand Manager who now featured in this magazine is a result of the of people. Through the support, I established the brand ‘Minister of Whitelinen’ that has managed to initiate a couple of movements including the famous DandyGentlemen Flashmobs (where we parade well dressed as men in public areas. We go to business centers, have lunch, interact and motivate each other. Parallel to this movement is also the VogueLadies and these exist for the purpose of cultivating a fashion consciousness in our community, to show the world that we Zimbabwean can do it too, to create a platform where fashion brand can interact and market themselves. It’s to get motivated by other prominent people in our community that cater for both the exterior and interior of the African fashion lover. As a brand we did manage to host 3 DandyGentlemen events this year, the first being in Harare, then Bulawayo and the recent one was in Harare again. We hosted the #WeLiftBlackMen mini-gathering powered by Ms. IvyMcGregor, a global influencer and social impact leader from the United States. The mini event was an initiative that Ms. Ivy started in the U.S after the death of George Floyd and was extended into Zimbabwe in collaboration between the DandyGentlemen, being the first convening of blackmen in the movement. As a brand, we now work closely with and are now part of the IvyincSoarers Community and we exist to change the narrative. In conclusion, the amazing #WeLiftBlackMen gathering we successfully hosted, could have not happened if I had not participated in the BossbabeSummit where Ms. Ivy spoke. Hence, I called this article ‘The pair of shoes that went a long way’
21
A Man Of Vision
B
rilliance
Queen Posh
N
omathemba Primrose Ndebele is a Fashion Entrepreneur, a mother and a partner who runs a luxury fashion line, POSH based in Harare Zimbabwe with an online shop serving clients in major global cities. On the social media circles Nomathemba is whoever you ask of her. Basically, her personality depends on how she has been approached. Some find her intimidating while others have grown to love her inspirational talks about life, business and relationships.
2. Noma, at what age did you discover that you wanted to become your own boss and what really transpired prior to that decision?
Like most people, I have always wanted to be my own boss but lacked the courage and will to take that “huge leap of faith”. It took years of dancing in the mud for me to learn the business skills I have today. After having worked as a shop attended in one of Harare’s leading boutiques for years, i finally gathered the strength to venture into my own business when I was 30. It took a lot of disciplined planning and just grabbing every opportunity as it came. Starting from selling clothes at Avondale stall to selling off the boot of my car to opening our current flagship store at Joina City and launching our global online store. During my years as a Shop Attendant I discovered the potential and gift I had for fashion and all the clients where always happy with my service. This pushed me to the next
stage: Creating my own line with all things POSH, spiced up with a vintage charm and unmatched personalized service.
EVERYONE. If you haven’t discovered yours, make an effort. Find yours! Follow it to the end and all good things will happen.
3. How did you manage to establish such an amazing brand and how was the journey like?
6. Noma, as much as you’re a darling to a lot of people, there is still some people who dislike and criticize you. How do you deal with criticism?
Posh has been built on the values and ethics I naturally believe in: Convenience, Quality and Integrity. This has made it easy for me to start and carry a great brand and keep it genuine through the years. The journey has been nothing short of a roller-coaster ride, the mad highs and the sad lows but in the end that’s what has made the journey worth it and i would never give it up for anything.
4. Where do you derive your motivation when you begin feeling like quitting? I have been fortunate enough to gain local and international support and have had a lot of wins since starting the business. It’s the “wins” I have encountered over the years which have kept me alive and going on during my down time. The thought of the “wins’ i have had has painted a permanent picture in my head that all things are possible and quitting is never an option.
5. Noma, you’re an inspiration and many people aspire to be like you and beyond any doubt, they see you as a role model. What’s your advice to everyone who sees you as an example?
A gift is something you do with the least effort, better than most people. Everyone is born with a specific gift.
Over the past years I have discovered that I can never please everyone or stand in the right light for everyone. It’s impossible. Even the biggest of blue-chip companies or super star celebrities the world over have many negative reviews and reports about them. The moment I learnt that, I discovered the power to staying true to myself and letting those who love me and my work cherish me. Also, taking criticism maturely and selecting all positive criticism has brought great growth to my personal life and business.
7. What are your plans in years to come as far as Posh is concerned? My team and I are busy on an expansion drive to open Posh outlets around developed and emerging markets and the pandemic (Covid-19) has slowed down our plans. However, we are surely looking forward to announce great expansion news during the beginning of 2021. The pandemic has also however strengthened our e-commerce department and we have managed to triple our online sales during the COVID-19 era, lessons which we looking at applying post the pandemic for the global growth of our fashion line.
24
25
Advertise Here
THE DANDY GENTLEMEN
W
e are here to #ChangeTheNarrative, to say to our fellow ladies and citizens of our community, ‘Zimbabwean Men Can Dress’. The movement that we started as a brand, Minister of Whitelinen, exists to accommodate and inspire the Zimbabwean. We learnt that, you cannot be, what you cannot see. Probably the reason why we did not so many fashion-conscious men in our community was because there was no motivation and stimulation for the need to be. We are here as the Dandy Gentlemen to be an example to our fellow men that a good look is attainable; it only takes effort. We are here to be what other men can ‘see hoping that by seeing they will also get an urge to ‘be’. The debut of the movement started right in the City of Harare. We had the presence of Natty the MC, Ben Chest and Tembalami the musician as our guests. I am sure you are wondering what exactly transpires during our flash mobs but let’s get into it. We are constantly gathering men, any men who is willing to come suited and dressed up and we parade ourselves in the busiest places of the town. We walk around to shock and wonder with our mobile DJ to create the hype, photographer and video person to create content. The Harare one was epic with more
than 27 men on the streets. We then have the interaction segment whereas fashion lovers we interact, sit down and know each other. Many thanks to ChopChop Zimbabwe for their good pizza during our interaction. We also made a lot noise and create hype in Joina City when we passed and all this ended with a photoshoot ay NSSA building. The Bulawayo edition was even more epic. We had so many sponsors on board, like Sterkinekor, Smoke House, The Vista, Alhpa Mineral Water, FMG, Barcelos and many others. We started our journey at Barcelos going into unique places like The Vista, Bulawayo Centre, the Tower Block and the Market taking pictures and parading our dandiness. We also felt a deep cultural connection with the city as we had a our signature shoot at the Joshua Nkomo statue. This was even more resonating as our theme for the edition was vintage wear. A couple of designers and fashion icos showed up like Welsh The Stylist, Scarless Designs, Ben Chest, Nceku, DrNash,to mention a few. The Bulawayo opened the idea of not neglecting the ‘interior man’ the inner man. We had motivational session with our guest who happen to prominent people in the areas of business and social impact. Mr. Busisa Moyo delivered a great message as well as Arthur Evans. The event close with a fashion show and a party at Smoke House.
The beauty is all this is as much as we are creating a fashion consciousness, we are as well creating unity withing the Zimbabwe fashion industry. This has become a platform where bloggers, fashionistas, designers, models, fashion lovers, fashion brands and stylists interact and learn from each other. It has become the Pitti Uomo of Zimbabwe and it is not stopping. Our next stop, if it was not for the Covid-19 was going to be Gweru, Mutare then Victoria Falls. One thing we have realized is it is no longer a national movement but a regional movement. We also have come up with a calendar to have the flash mobs done in Malawi, Blantyre and South Africa’s Johannesburg and Capetown. We have our brother Sebastian Mqondisi Ncube as our face in South Africa. The vision is not neglecting the ladies at all, but the brand has managed to established a similar movement under the name Vogue Ladies as @vogue. ladies_zw on Instagram to create the same unity, hype, consciousness and excitement in the fashion industry the same we did with the Dandy Gentlemen. We call out to our fellow Zimbabwean men, brands of all kind to join in, to change the narrative and build the total men together. Our Instagram handle is @dandygentlemen_zw#ZimMenCanDress
28
N
yasha what do you do and what drives you to become the man you are today? I’m a fashion model, a brand ambassador, and musician. I’m driven by a hunger to succeed and to see others around me succeed. There’s no better feeling than seeing your dreams come true and seeing others live their dreams as well. I’m so passionate about life and everything life has to offer, I’m all about pushing myself to be the best in what I do and to set a good example for everyone who looks up to me. People will follow your actions more than your words. I believe life is an adventure worth exploring, hence my everyday motto - die with memories, not dreams. Be adventurous, be spontaneous, be open minded, look for new opportunities, try out new
things. Above everything, I trust God and I know my worth. Knowing my worth means that i don’t accept anything less than I deserve. You have to understand that only you can place a value on yourself. Don’t allow anyone to tell you who you are or aren’t, or to tell you what you can or can’t do. My dream is to inspire everyone who sees me to believe in the power and beauty of their dreams. If your dreams don’t scare you, they probably not big enough, dream bigger, go for the top. # Nyasha, do you think appearance matters in dealing with people in the community? I certainly think it matters when dealing with people, because people have to have a level of respect for you if they are to listen and un-
derstand you, let alone follow you. So, the way you appear to them will have a bearing as to how far you will reach out to them, and not only reach out to them, but actually make an impact on them. People want to know that they can relate and form some sort of relationship with you, so if you appear unrelatable then you aren’t going to deal effectively with any person or community as a whole. # Mr. Nyasha, there is so much greatness and wisdom within you. What’s your advice to anyone who is aspiring to be like you? My advice to anyone who aspires to be like me is to always maintain a positive attitude and to believe in yourself. A positive attitude will always align you with winners, and when you’re aligned with winners, there’s no way you aren’t going to win.
P
P
u r s u it of urp o s e
Born Beyond Limitations Model : Nyasha Valentine Murandu
N
yasha Valentine Murandu(nyxshx) is an introverted extrovert ha-ha. I'm naturally quiet and diffident but I've had to really come out of my shell and be a leader. We are meant to be lions, but the greatest tragedy is that a lot of lions in this world have sheep mentality, so they busy eating grass instead of hunting for meat. You gotta go out there and be the best. I'm born in a small town called Redcliff, in Kwekwe. But had to move from one town to the next because of school and life in general, before eventually leaving the country to further my studies in South Africa where I’m currently based. How I became a fashion model is actually a funny story in a way because i never saw myself as a model even though I've always been a lover of fashion, more like an addict, i remember in college I'd go hungry sometimes coz I spent all my money on clothes and cool shoes(don't do it kids that's irresponsible).
I was going to pursue my other dream of being a musician which I am still pursuing, I'll be releasing some music for you guys this month so be on the lookout for that. Matter of fact, I didn't even know that modeling is actually a career until a friend asked me to try it out and offered me a short-term contract. Boy, did I not fall in love with it!! It's like God was just saying i know you got your own visions and dreams, but I got my own visions and dreams for you too, go on, stretch yourself, be more, do more!! I've since had the privilege to model for Bogart, Markham, Edgars, H&M, The fix, Tom Voyager, Old Khaki among other top brands in the South African fashion industry. Be spontaneous, be adventurous, be open minded, put new things to the test. You don't have to burn inside a house because the one door you expected to open did not open, and you weren't willing to try opening the 5 other doors right next to it. Above everything, pursue God's purpose for your life passionateIn my mind I was going to play ly. And be willing to keep walkprofessional basketball for the ing down that right path. You will Chicago Bulls in the NBA, ha- make progress, GUARANTEED! ha. When that didn't materialize,
31
Visit Zimbabwe
Classique
HL
HL Classique H
industry, breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes in the world of business. Women in businesses often face challenges in a male dominated space but TarryMK is living proof that with hard work, The Harare based fashion powerhouse has seen consistency and integrity women in Zimbabwe can many prominent names engage in business and walk through its doors over the years from radio do well. Female empow& tv personalities to pol- erment is at the heart of HL Classique, and it’s iticians and music stars. HL Classique prides itself recent appointment of Tadiwa Bopoto (Noku) in its unique ability to offer bespoke services to as brand ambassador its varied customers who demonstrates the company’s commitment to have diverse taste and engage the young women needs. of Zimbabwe. Since its inception the company led by TarryMK In an interview for this aka Tarisai Mukondo has article when asked about consistently been a mar- her experience being brand ambassador for HL ket leader in the fashion L Classique is a leading fashion trend setter in Zimbabwe. HLC is the home of all unique specialized and popular brands.
34
Classique Tadiwa said ”, I’m enjoying the experience so far. Everyone I’m working with is so amazing and professional. I’m learning that fashion is not just about putting on some clothes and posing for pictures but it’s a way of expressing yourself, a special language. I hope I become an inspiration to the younger generations, with the message that whatever career or side hustle you decide to pursue - excel in that and Life will take you places you’ve never dreamt of.” Visit HL Classique for a unique and quality experience.
Makeup Brushes Guide
In Love!!!
Meet Deliwe Mutandiro Bobo
F
lawle Deliwe
ss
Make-up Artist
H
ello Deliwe, so it’s part of our culture as Zim Influencers Magazine to start with this popular request, can you please tell us a little bit about yourself and what exactly makes you this unique and amazing? My name is Deliwe Mutandiro and most people know me by my Instagram handle/IG themua_ Deliwe. I am a mum of 2 to the most beautiful boy and a girl. I love being a mum. Makeup has always been my first love but I am also into pig farming, which I hope to be on a large scale one day. What makes me unique is my creativity, dedication to the work I do and my zeal of wanting to do better at what I do every day. I believe that I was put in this world to make a difference. I haven’t reached where I want to be yet but only the sky is the limit. # Deliwe, what really inspired your decision to get into the make-up industry? I used to wake up in the morning and watch my mum getting ready for work and I loved how she looked. When she would leave I’d imitate everything on me to also see how I looked. However, what inspired me was how it really transforms a person inside out ,how it just boosts ones confidence .If you’re having a bad day, just wear lipstick and u can conquer the Day hunny ...Makeup is a like that little black dress u love or that red shoe u can’t do without because it is the only thing that finishes the Look. # How did you manage to establish such an
amazing brand and how was the journey like? Keeping pace with the changes in the makeup industry and being able to listen to what my clients want when they come for makeup. I also leverage on social media without tainting my brand. To be honest the journey has not been easy, with its fair share of ups and downs but I thank God for his grace over my business always.
Deliwe Mutandiro Bobo
A Talk With The Best
# Where do you derive your motivation when you begin feeling like quitting? The love for my job and my clients who constantly support me through thick and thin. I am inspired to wake up every morning because i also have big dreams for my job. # Deliwe what types of looks do you offer? I offer natural, full Glam , bridal, evening and prom looks .. Show me a look and I will bring it to life. # Deliwe, do you believe that there is a high misunderstanding of women who put on make-up, can you please tell us why is that? Yes, because some people believe that people who put make up have a low self-esteem of themselves. For some it’s true but we can’t generalize, some women wear makeup because they like it and want to express themselves with it. # What are your plans in the coming years, what should we expect? I plan to have my own studio and empower young girls through teaching them what I do and love the most. The future is female. # You are an inspiration to many people, what’s your advice to young girls who aspire to be like you? Believe in yourself. Don’t ever undermine your dreams because only you have the power to make them come true.
41
C
Cindy Munyavi
C
indy Munyavi is an award-winning artist who has made so much waves in the Zimbabwean music industry. Her talent is mind-blowing and her rise to fame was a blessing to many aspiring young women in the African community. She has established herself as one of Zimbabwe’s widely recognized female artists owing to her consistency in the industry. She has released two successful albums and has taken part in many potential scouting events. Her new double album titled Music Vocals Cindy (MVC) which carries the chart-topping Setter Pace
international artists. Containing such hits as Nerudo, Can’t Stop the Rain, Zuva Zimwe, Wonder Why and SpareWheel/ One Way,it become one of the best loved urban music albums of all time. Within the same period (2010) she performed alongside Sean Kingston and was the only local artist chosen by Sean Kingston’s producer to record a song with him. The diva has also performed with Grammy Award winning artist Beenie Man in 2010 as well as the supporting act for Akon, Sean Paul and the Jamaican dancehall
Meet Cindy Munyavi is already making waves on the local scene With her debut album in 2006 entitled Kukuda/Loving You, she was quick to be recognised as it earned her two NAMA (National and Arts Merit Awards) nominations. In another category she was nominated for Outstanding Artist Award together with the Iconic Oliver Mtukudzi who was the eventual winner. Her second album The Groove Theory which was released in 2010 became one of her most successful projects to date as it opened up many doors for her including regional collaborations, more awards nominations and shows with
group TOK. She also collaborated with top African artists, 2face Idibia, Bongani Fassie, Ishmael among others on the United Artists of Africa project. On the 27th of May 2011 she performed at the Big Brother Africa Amplified Eviction night. Cindy has always been passionate about helping her community and has been widely involved in such activities. She has been a Community activist and Voluntary Aid worker for Mashambanzou Care Center and has been a Facilitator for Youth Alive behavioral change workshops across the nation of Zimbabwe.
43
Meet The
Two Young Ladies Who Decided To
Create Their Own
Fashion Line:
44
Fashion Designer
M
ellisa Mungoni
Fashion Designer
M
itchell Harare
Self-made Fashion Designers.
M
ellisa Mungoni is a 23 year old girl born and breed in Harare Zimbabwe. Currently residing in Algeria persuing studies in electrical engineering. She is writer as well as self-made fashion designer. Co-partnering with Mitchell Harare from Karoi who is also an engineering student from Zimbabwe, they started there own designing company La Couture_MM where they make custom designed wear for both sexes. Passionate about everything fashion and the art of creating garments that translate the vibe and style of each one of their clients.
were plenty students who had their style and fashion sense being dictated by what was available in the boutiques.
As a designer it takes a chunk of you for people to start believing in you. for us it was even more work trying to advertise and get clients to trust us with their clothes since both of us had no actual expirience, we were just learning on the job. It got easier, the more we advertised , the better we sew the more our work sold itself. Tryin to mantain a balance between studying and establishing a business which is time demanding like sewing was quite arduous but eventually we adapted and became more organised with For most people getting a business our time. Being as it is our greatidea and finding the will to start is est challenge is that our market is always the problem, but well for us a bit restricted to just our society that wasn’t it at all, the undeniably here in Algeria. Being able to reach seering passion for fashion was the across the boaders to have our kick. Having been always interest- products readily available in Zim ed in styling and the art of fashion, is still a stretch since the process of being in an environment which shipping goods from here is a bit was a bit limited on the range of costly. styles found, created for us an opportunity to cultivate a new skill. Yes in the course of time we are Algeria being a Muslim country hoping to be involved to host, marhas a limited range of styles espe- ket and promote fashion shows cially with dresses. The start was to showcase leading trends, our one that was just stumbled upon in creativity and even that of other an effort to make a birthday dress upcoming designers . It could be when l couldn’t afford the ones challenging here considering our that where available and l got re- conservative society but that is deally good feedback on it. The next finately the plan when we get back step was identifying the need of home. the service in our virtual society as We plan on expanding our clienstudents because just like us there tele back home and be an estab-
lished brand in Zimbabwe.Being one of the leading names in our African fashion brands. Changing the narrative even on a more global platform by designing clothes that have the heart of Africa in them, painting everywhere vibrant with a splash of our heritage. To create clothes that invoke a sense of confidence in the one wearing them, clothes that have a representation of and look good on people of all sizes. When you dress right you just feel right. Besides us being entrepreneurs, La Couture_MM is a brand which will not only be focused in keeping people elagant and polished but we also have a burden for society. We plan on using our brand as an opportunity to empower young men and women into being able to make a living from acquiring skills such as sewing by starting a Sewing School and introducing simple projects that generate income as well as creating employment opportunities in our industry. To anyone looking to start a business the key is being intentional about it. Start now!. Begin where you are by identifying what you can offer your society. You have a lot to give, don’t keep it in.
47
Color An abstract painting, a piece of art, one so unique it pulls you in at the sight. The colours compounding to the totality of a magical rainbow effect. As you paint the picture of the rainbow with your imagination, just as the whole spectrum is filled with colours equally beautiful yet so different, so is the world. You do not need to tear it down colour after colour for in its wholeness resides an incomprehensible level of beauty. Nature in all its splendor is clothed in an aesthetic of happiness, the colour breathing life to us, all around us. Not only in nature do we find the phenomenon of the use of color but even in our day to day lives, in our clothes. A colour worn right with a splash of confidence can convey a message to the world. The right colour can speak feisty, elegant, regal, playful you name it. Knowing the right colour always translates to putting out the vibe you would want to put across. Colour is a language, it carries culture, our experiences, and more profound, our emotions. If l was to translate colour and incorporate it into our day to day living l would say it resembles attitude. The same way you can choose to pick a different colour of clothes from your closet which goes with the day`s theme, that is just the same way we get to pick an attitude that takes us through
Your WORLD With the RIGHT
ATTITUDE By Mellisa Mungoni the day, the week, or even our entire lives. An attitude just like a colour filter lens, it is your mind filter, it influences your perception of life. It is the window with which you get to view the world with, do not let it get splattered by criticism, smudged with the disappointments of life, rejection, and never let it be clouded by doubt. When you pick a downer and pessimistic attitude everything will be imperfect, somber, and not worth enjoying but when one becomes intentional about their attitude they see the world in a different light where even the grays and blacks become an aesthetic of joy and abundance of hope for better days. In a world filled with somberness, disappointment, pain and fear of
the future be the bright soul overwhelmed with positivity seeking to see the world with a better light, one of looking for solutions and less complaining. Your attitude determines your altitude, adjust it to fit your purpose and desired destination. Quit being your greatest obstacle, the art of ‘ self -sabotage‘ by carrying around a downbeat attitude. Keep your window squeaky clean. Pick the right colour for your attitude and experience a whole new world full of possibilities and all things to be grateful for even in the face of adversity. Often we perceive things as we are more than they are…You will always see the world, your surroundings, even the people with the colour you have allowed your attitude window to be painted. Make it one of love, gratitude, growth, and progression, allow yourself to live with so much passion. Whatever sets your spark ablaze, chase that. Paint your little bit of sunshine when it is foggy. Don’t trim your wings when the tides are rough, keep soaring. Color your world with the right attitude!
48
49
Advertise Here
52
Top 08 Life Lessons Be A Goal-getter Be Decisive Be Respectful Be Prayerful Be Humble Be Patient Be A Visionary Be Financially Indiendent
53
Contact Us
55
Contact Us For A Feature
