Proud Zimbabwean fashion designer launches fashion brand in SA
By Mabel Khumalo
A 28 year old Zimbabwean born fashion entrepreneur has released an African print inspired collection branded ‘ibheshu.’
Cynthia Bhebhe, born in Insuza, Bubi District, who is based in Newtown, Johannesburg told Community Podium that she chose this name because she creates products that are boldly African with a touch of modern design.
“As Africans we are slowly straying away from our roots, hence ibheshu’s quest to restore that Africanness,” she said.
The ambitious fashion designer who grew up in New Lobengula, Bulawayo revealed that her brand produces a variety of fashion items. ” Not only do we focus on clothing, but there is also a wide variety of arts and crafts that we also offer to our clients. These are leather bags, wall art and leather shoes just to mention a few,” said a beaming Bhebhe. Her brand is an international brand, she serves clients from as far as France and Ethiopia through online platforms like Sunday Markets. Bhebhe attributes the uniqueness of her designs to her Zimbabwean background and her late mother who was also a renowned dress maker.”
From a tender age I have always been passionate about craft works. My parents were always amazed by my creativity. She also draws her inspiration from South African based fashion designer, Thebe Magugu.”She is my role model, her creativity is something else…she really inspires me,” said Bhebhe. She hopes to develop professionally and take her career to greater heights, find bigger opportunities as well as create more employment opportunities for the locals.
The fashion entrepreneur suffered a huge blow during the Covid 19 lockdown, as sells plummeted to an all time low. She calls upon well wishers and potential investors to invest in her business so that she can scale up to industrial operations. ” My dream is very big, however I am facing a shortage of raw materials and morden equipment that go with the trade. I am appealing to both individuals and organisations to support my hustle,” she said.
Bhebhe said she tries to balance her family life with her work and admits that balancing the two comes with challenges. “I am married and have two beautiful sons… its not busy to balance the two. I am also doing short courses to advance my skills as well,” she said.
