Last weekend, the British Council in Zimbabwe, in partnership with Paperbag Africa, proudly hosted the ‘I Wear My Culture‘ fashion showcase at the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.

Fittingly held in a space that preserves both African and global heritage, the event highlighted how fashion can serve as a living archive of identity and tradition.

Launched in 2022, I Wear My Culture is a cultural heritage and fashion research initiative that empowers young designers to explore, document, and reinterpret Zimbabwe’s diverse traditions through contemporary fashion, film, and photography.

The showcase was a vibrant celebration of African cultural designs, reflected not only on the runway but also in the attire of the guests. Fourteen visionary designers transformed motifs from communities including the Xhosa, Kalanga, Tonga, Ndau, Ndebele, Zezuru, Chewa, and Sotho into powerful garments that celebrated heritage while speaking to modern creativity. Guests were immersed in a fusion of colour, history, and artistry.

Among those who showcased their work were: Tocar (Khoisan), Kazna Asker (United Kingdom), Ncoma Style Lab (Venda), Zaviar Fashion House (Durban Fashion Fair), Karanga uLunga Othungayo, Soleil (Ndebele), Tarakari Co (Shangani), Okhlepieces (Tonga), Endersray (Chewa), Mahle Designs (Zezuru), Penolope Creations (Ndau), Noliwe B (Sotho), Chardesignz (Nambya), Radlee (Sena), and Kundai Caryn (Kalanga).

The event not only gave designers a platform to tell stories through fashion but also provided opportunities for local models to walk an international-standard runway.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Deputy Mayor of Bulawayo, CEOs of various organisations, models, and fashion organisers, all lending weight to the growing influence of Zimbabwe’s creative industries.

Beyond the runway, the program included masterclasses and a moving tribute to legendary historian Pathisa Nyathi. Ultimately, the event was a reminder that fashion is more than style—it is a celebration of heritage, resilience, and identity.