Thembani Mubochwa (TM) who is an award winning Zimbabwean fashion
designer who has changed the world of the African Fashion industry.
Tapiwanashe Rubaya (TR) caught up with Thembani Mubochwa who explains
how his fashion career is working with the Ministry of Climate,Water
and Wildlife in his country.
' I have been privileged to have to be appointed the National Elephant
Ambassador of Zimbabwe'
TR:Who is Thembani Mubochwa ?
TM:Thembani Mubochwa is a young Zimbabwean Fashion designer.I was born
and raised in Zimbabwe.
TR:Take us to your journey in the fashion industry?
TM:I started my journey in the High Density suburb of
Glen Norah sitting at my uncle's feet at his small tailoring
business.That journey landed me in South Africa's leading
A listers including the likes of the late Sifiso Ncwane.
TR:What defines your work?
TM:My work is defined by my African Roots and desire to merge them
with modern fashion concepts.
TR:You work closely with the ministry of Water,Climate and Environment
(Wildlife) of your country.What is your role when it comes to Wildlife
advocating?
TM:I have been privileged to have to be appointed the National
Elephant Ambassador of Zimbabwe an ambassador for the Zimbabwe
National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.
This is a role I take seriously as I have been mandated to raise
awareness around key conservation issues and to engage young
Zimbabweans to take a greater interest and be more involved in
safeguarding our wildlife and environment.
TR: Recently you were involved in an event which was hosted by
Afro Jumbo Trust.Tell us more about the event and what it achieved ?
TM:The Afro jumbo Trust recently held a fundraising dinner and fashion
show dubbed dinner under the stars.
The dinner was in aid of the extension and interpretation of national parks.
The aim was to purchase motorbikes for the department which is
responsible for community engagement and public awareness particularly
in the area of Human Wildlife Conflict we managed to receive pledges
for 3 off road bikes which we await delivery.
TR:When it comes to Vodacom Durban July Fashion,TMZ has never
disappointed its clients and fans tell us where do you get your
inspiration from?
TM:The inspiration comes from a desire to always go further and be
bigger and bolder than before.Never get satisfied just doing the same
thing over and over again.
TR:Last year TMZ collaborated with award winning stylist
Craig Zooiwe.What role has the collabo played in your journey as TMZ?
TM:The collaboration with Craig Zooiwe was an exciting exploration of
fashion through the eyes of a different subject.Craig is a leading
stylist in Zimbabwe and it was interesting to discover and work with
his take on various fashion and style elements.
TR:When are you releasing your next collection?
TM:I have started work on the next collection but the release date
will be determined by the creative process and where it takes me.
TR:Any international/local fashion shows that TMZ will be showcasing
their collections?
TM:There are some events in the pipeline some that we have previously
participated at others new but it is still to early to confirm
anything.
TR:Where do you see TMZ in years to come?
TM:I see TMZ as a brand that will take its position among leading
fashion brands in Africa.
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