Mutobi Sibanda
BULAWAYO fashion designer Mthobi Sibanda took his Indwangu by Umthobi apparel brand to MTC Windhoek Fashion Week in Namibia last week.
The Fashion Showcase brought together various industry players on one platform, including fashion designers, Namibian and international brands, models, show producers, makeup artists, media, stylists, jewelery crafters and many fashion enthusiasts.
For Sibanda, the event was not only a networking opportunity to connect with international fashion designers and strong African brands, but also a skills development platform.
The enthusiastic Sibanda told NewsDay Life & Style that she made progress after responding to a call for designers from across Africa by the organizers of Windhoek Fashion Week.
“I was fortunate enough to be selected as the African designer to present at Windhoek Fashion Week in Namibia on Friday. I was so excited and grateful to be able to show the world how talented I am.
“When I was nominated for the Bulawayo Art Award, it was a humbling experience. They will help you.”
Sibanda, who studied fashion design and graduated in 2021, says she wasn’t the best student in her class.
“I was the worst student. I was discouraged and my teachers encouraged me to drop out and do something else, but I was persistent and knew what I wanted to do,” he said.
“I did an internship with Tahumanei Munenge in Harare and came back to Bulawayo because I wanted to be a couturier (one who designs, manufactures and sells expensive fashionable clothes) instead of working in a department store. .”
He added: While there, I worked with brides, people going to high fashion events, and red carpets. “
After an internship at Mzansi, Sibanda returned home and launched his Indwangu by Umthobi brand.
Locally, Sibanda has worked with top socialites such as Madam Boss, Dr. Pe and Sududuzo Mfoko, working on red carpets and dressed-up brides.
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