Runway, Reel & Reverence: How Bulawayo’s Terrence Is Rewriting the Rules of African Modelling
Step into the world of Terrence — Bulawayo’s laid-back showstopper who turns heads the moment he walks through the door. He’s walked for Listo Fashions, became the face House of Lumiere couldn’t stop calling back, and still finds time to shoot films and weddings behind the lens. Equal parts commercial model, cinematographer, and minister of the Word, Terrence is proof that African style isn’t just about what you wear — it’s about the story, the soil, and the swagger you bring. In this candid Q&A for Fashion Inspirations, he opens up about runway screams, biri-marung dance fails, why Sadza beats everything, and the advice he wishes he had when he started. Spoiler: authenticity wins every time.
Q: Terrence, for those meeting you for the first time, how would you describe yourself in three words?
A: I’d describe myself as a laid-back person, but I command attention when I enter rooms that matter.
Q: You’re involved in both pageantry and commercial modelling. Which one stole your heart first, and what drew you into the industry?
A: Commercial modelling stole my heart first because of the weight it carries. I’m able to express myself better there, think outside the box, and I’ve always wanted to be a brand ambassador for clothing lines or products. My love for fashion drew me into the industry.
Q: Bulawayo has produced incredible talent over the years. How has growing up in the City of Kings influenced your journey as a model?
A: Wow, this one is huge. If I talk about the influence I got from the City of Kings, we’d be here all day. I’m also into cinematography and acting, and those three things really shaped my journey. The knowledge I had made it easier to meet people who helped me get started.
Q: Every model has that one unforgettable moment on stage or during a photoshoot. What’s been your most memorable experience so far?
A: Haha, the most unforgettable moment was walking the runway for Listo Fashions when I was really in shape. When the ladies start screaming, it messes you up a bit and boosts your confidence to 1000%, but you still have to control yourself so you don’t mess it up. I still look at the pictures from that event and think, “Wow, I had it.”
Q: Be honest — what’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you during a pageant or modelling event?
A: The funniest thing makes me cringe every time. They had us dancing to Biri Marung… and my friends were like, “Was the dancing necessary? You looked stupid!” Trust me, I’ll never forget that day.
Q: When you’re not striking poses or walking the runway, what does a typical day in Terrence’s life look like?
A: When “lights, camera, action” stops, I switch into the guy behind the camera shooting movies, weddings, and other projects. I’m blessed to work both in front of and behind the lens. I’m also employed at Reign Gases, one of the biggest gas companies in Zimbabwe — always a busy man.
Q: Social media often shows the glamorous side of modelling. What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about the reality of the industry?
A: One thing that might shock people is that I’m a minister of the Word of God, big time. And I love Sadza and offals over every other meal.
Q: If you could collaborate with any African fashion designer, photographer, or brand, who would it be and why?
A: If I could collaborate with a designer, it would be Kente Gentleman in Côte d’Ivoire. I love how they create those interesting suits with an African feel — I’d love to wear them. Locally, it’s definitely House of Lumiere. Beyond our relationship, she picked me up when I’d left the industry and said, “Measure this guy, I want him to wear my clothes. He’s my model now.” That’s how I came back. Shout to my friend Phil for taking me there at the time.
Q: Many young people look up to models and pageant contestants. What advice would you give to someone in Bulawayo who dreams of following in your footsteps?
A: My advice to upcoming models: push yourself, find inspiration, and know exactly who you are as a brand — it makes things easier. And never be too hungry to make it, because every industry has its demons. When you cut corners, they always bite you and throw it back in your face.
Q: Finally, let’s have some fun: if Terrence wasn’t a model, what career would you be pursuing today, and why?
A: If I wasn’t a model, trust me, I’d be doing a lot yoooo. I’ve already mentioned filming and acting. Besides that part of the industry, I think I’d be in security detail or special forces. I have a real love for that world.
WORLD OF FASHION & MODELLING 