We had a chat with Designer, Choreographer, Model and Founder Kwanele Finch Thusi about his FinchWear Brand and also his upcoming projects.Among them include his international nomination in Nigeria.He explains more abo ut his brand as well as where he is planning to expand his brand to .
Q. Rumour is that your brand has been scouted internationally? Is this true? A.Hi again, yes. Our brand is about to work with a Nigerian Company called Daffe Unmute. They are a company working in textile and underwear and it’s great a partnership to make more impact. I am also due to be in Nigeria for AFDA awards as I have been nominated for best newcomer designer and African Male Model of the year award.
Q.Tell us more about these partnerships, have you received the same support in South Africa?A. No, our country is still catching up to the crazy ideas I have with my brand. I believe also the economist of collaboration in South Africa is not as strong as overseas. I am happy that my clothes are being bought lol. I didn’t think it will be even sold overseas and that’s why I am shocked!
Q.Back to your brand on social media you have made a call on those who would like to be brand ambassadors of the brand?A.The Models will be selected in July but officially start their contract in August. They spend year in training and massive opportunities get these two elements of my life and show them through fashion.
Q.Apart from this fashion show which other event are you eyeing to exhibit your product?A.I would love to take my work to Birmingham Fashion Council.
Q. Any last words to inspire people that look up to you? A.Besides doing fashion, I am doing my first international movie as a choreographer. I would say I believe so much in prayer. I have manifested these moments through positive thinking and aligning my thoughts into action
It’s one of South Africa’s biggest fashion regional pageants,Mister Tshwane founded by Asan Mahlangu is set to host their annual page an which thousands will witness,reigning King Thamsanqa Msengi passing his throne to the next King.
The pageant is a beauty competition that aims to crown the most intelligent and Beautiful male and female contestants in the Tshwane and nearby cities,while promoting personal growth,cultural significance, and tourism.It also serves as a platform for contestants to gain exposure and potentially pursue further opportunities in modeling or entertainment.
Previous title holders have been:2019 Junior Mahlangu2020 Zwelethu Tekete,2021 Lethabo Baloyi ,2022 Stephen Mukumbi and the reigning King
2023 Thamsanqa Msengi.
Zwelethu Tekete is the reigning Mister Africa Continental a title he won in 2020.While in 2023,Mister Tshwane candidate winner represented South Africa at Mister Glocal where he won a number of medals for different categories.
One might wonder what is unique about this year’s event it is that the contestants are incredibly strong and competitive, with each and every one of them bringing their A-game.
This is a accordig to Mister Tshwane founder Asan Mahlanga
He further added that, the level of talent, passion, and dedication is unprecedented, making this year’s competition the most challenging and exciting one yet.
The event is set to take place on 1st week of October.
Misters of Nigeria Pageant gets recognition international
A Week ago at the Eko Heritage Awards, Emmanuel Somto received the Male Pagegant brand award.
Four years ago was when it all began.
The Misters of Nigeria organization was created with a vision to make a significant impact in the pageant industry and, more importantly, in the lives of young Nigerian men. Their mission has always been to create exceptional individuals, turning these men into outstanding persons who exemplify leadership, integrity, and excellence.
Within these years,they have had the privilege of crowning four outstanding winners: Marcel Soludo (2021), Shamsudeen Idris (2022), Oluwaseyifunmi Araga (2023), and most recently, Oluwatobi Emmanuel Adesanya (2024). These men truly represent what it means to carry the mantle of leadership.
Their dedication, hard work, and passion have been instrumental in our journey, and they continue to inspire countless others.
Internationally,their presence has been formidable.
With back-to-back placements at Mister Global by Emmanuel Somto (2021), Isinwa Senator (2022), and Seyi Araga (2023),they have made their mark on the global stage.
Additionally, their debut at Mister International in 2023 with Martin Osagie was a remarkable achievement.
They also celebrated their first-ever Man of Africa title in Ghana, won by Stanley Inyiekwe. These accomplishments highlight the exceptional talent and dedication of their representatives.
Receiving the Male Pageant Brand of the Year award at the Eko Heritage Awards it felt like a significant acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication they have put into developing this brand. This achievement shows the hardwork that has been put into this brand bytheir incredible team, their titleholders, every contestant who has graced their platform, and of course,the fans and supporters.
As all eyes are on who will be the next title holder of the Mister Zimbabwe International, among those who are in the list of being called title holder of the title Mister Zimbabwe International is,Juma Takudzwa.In an exclusive moment,he talks about what pushed him to contest for the throne.In addition he speaks about his other title,Mr Gweru.During the interview Juma discusses about climate change and how Mister Zimbabwe title will assist him in fighting for using cleaner and renewable energy.
Q.Takudzwa can you tell us a brief about your self ?A.My name is Juma Takudzwa I am a 23 year old runway model from Gweru and I am really bad at cooking. I grew up in Gweru and I am studying Local Governance and Management at Midlands State University. I am really ambitious and creative as well, so creative I can make anything from anything and not only am I good designer but I am really passionate for my work.
Q.You are not a newbie in the world of modelling take us to your first steps in the industry?A.Yes I am not a newbie in the modeling industry and my journey started back in 2022 when I competed and won the first ever Mr Gweru. I fell in love with the craft and I am really excited to see how well I can take this.
Q.As Mister Gweru how has the title shaped your life? A.As Mister Gweru it has opened me up to a few opportunities I get to interact with other models and also upcoming models as well and I have been learning a lot from them. Not only that but also it put me in a opportunity to help others and share my talent with the world and this alone has helped me to target greater opportunities both in future and my current career path
Q.Currently you are chasing the title Mister Zimbabwe International how has your journey been?A.Thank you for My campaign for MR ZIMBABWE international is exciting and not to brag I have learned a lot from this. Its helping me discover certain aspects of myself and although it’s not a smooth sail I am highly honored to be a proud representative of Gweru in this years Mr Zimbabwe
Q.One might wonder why the title Mister Zimbabwe International?A.It has ever been a dream of mine to be Mr Zimbabwe ever since I was introduced to the industry and it is a good platform to show the world to what I’m capable of doing
In terms of design, the beauty of the Zimbabwean culture and heritage and lastly I want to be the perfect example for a Zimbabwean Male model.
Q.During the preliminaries your traditional warrior costume stood out as unique what inspired your costume?A.Well it’s actually funny but I based my costume from one of my favorite movie.
Its funny how inspiration can come from anywhere and I had to go for it to prove to everyone that you can do and be anyone you want as long as you are willing to put in the work
Q.What will it be one change you will make if you win the title?A.More male representation in the modeling industry
The industry is dominated by females and some and not most of the people in Zimbabwe still find it absurd for a guy to be a model so my aspiration is to improve and do away with this narrative and help up keep the industry of more male representation in the modeling industry.
Q.How do you plan in using your title in advocating for the use of technology in protecting the environment ?A.Good Question and I believe that through generating less carbon dioxide emission through the use of energy that relies on renewable sources such as solar, wind and biogas we not only protect the environment but also preserve it for future generations to come
South Africans are eagerly waiting to know who will be crowned,Mister South Africa,one of the most unique titles in the continent. A number of aspiring Kings are the quest for the throne. Among them is a 27 year old male model,Kenneth Sithole who has won a number of titles in the modelling industry.
In an exclusive interview he share more about his inspiration,journey as well as why he entered in the competition .
Q.Kenneth can you introduce yourself to our readers?A. Kenneth Musa Sithole, 27 years of age. Born in mpumalanga but I was raised in daveyton, Gauteng. I am a qualified biotechnologist, working as a Laboratory technician at Microchem Lab Services. I am an active model, motivational speaker, a pageant director, a leader and philanthropist.
Q.Why did you selected to take part as a candidate for Mister South Africa A. Mr. South Africa is a big platform that aids to mold men from across SA to be great leaders. I have always been passionate about growing up as a leader and also assisting others to grow and improve. A Mr. South Africa is one who is selfless and gives for the betterment of others. The platform is suited for me based on my characteristics. It would be amazing to have a Mr. South Africa who came from nothing but persevered to be a great leader that I am now.
Q.It’s not your first time contesting for a modelling title can you tell us more about them?A. I have won important tittles in the Pageantry industry. Tittles which I cherished and gave them more meaning. For my successors to cherish and serve it’s purpose as I did. My biggest tittle wins would be: Mr Johannesburg 2020 and Mr Boksburg 2021. I’ve also works with brilliant photographers and brands to build a nice portfolio.
Q.Whatword of advise do you have to South African male modes?A.. That resilience and perseverance are key. Storms, trials and tribulations will always be there. It is important to have faith and march forward for a better course. Show the world who you are and use your gifts, talents or your abilities to the fullest. Be open for more responsibilities.
Q.How has the public reacted to your quest to Mister S.A. throne?A. I am receiving such a warm response, a lot of people have always urged me to enter but I always felt like I wasn’t worthy of the tittle. Sometimes we don’t realize our potential and how impactful we are. Those who are next to you will forever play a crucial role reminding you who you are and the role you are playing in the community.
Q.What is your take of the modeling industry when I comes to male models ?A. The industry is open for males to join and make a difference. I believe most men are afraid while others still believe that the industry caters for certain individuals. The industry is now inclusive and practices diversity. Most men should take part. I’ve had good experience working with different models, you get to learn and experience different personalities. There’s always that peirit of brotherhood.
Q.what keeps you moving?A. Grateful, authentic and impactful. I am always grateful for life, who I am and what I have. God is my pillar of strength and my foundation, for me to fully function I need to be thankful and ask for his presence all day. I love being myself and being impactful. Making people have and feel better about themselves. It’s important to give off the real me.
Q.What are you passionate about if you win?A.One thing that I am passionate about it is to change/improve how people view life and it’s challenges. I want people to practice self love and get to know who they are and see the beauty of life’s journey. Given that I win, I will get the opportunity to influence a large scale. A boy child will understand what self love and self appreciation is. They will journey on understanding themselves which will give them hope and faith, and that anything is attainable through God, hardwork, perseverance and your background matters not. An I will be a good example of that. Together #WeKen achieve more.
10 Lucky Models chosen to be with International Brand FINCHWEAR ZA
We had a chat with Designer and Founder Kwanele Finch Thusi about his FinchWear Brand Models.He explained about the selection process,what we must expect from the selected ambassadors.
Q.Since you introduced your Top 10 to the public.What has been the outcome?A. It has been such an overwhelming feeling since day 1 of the online auditions. From a 100 we have chosen ten which I felt will fit perfectly with the brand. The Top 10 will be given a 1 year contract to be mentored and skilled.
Q.Any new developments from the brand products? A.Yes, we are currently preparing to have our fashion show launch in the spring. We are just taking it one step at a time. We can’t show our clothes collection as we want to do a big launch.
Q.Tell us more about the fashion trend you are going to be aiming for ?A.We want the Finch Wear brand to be accessible and affordable. I have always loved sports and embraced my culture as a Zulu person. I wanted to merge these two elements of my life and show them through fashion.
Q.Apart from this fashion show which other event are you eyeing to exhibit your product?A.We are partnering with many great talents to release our reality show before the year ends. The Top 10 chosen models will be featured in a reality show. But I can’t say a lot for now.
Q.Back to your brand on social media you have made a call on those who would like to be brand ambassadors of the brand? A.The Models will be selected in July but officially start their contract in August. They spend year in training and massive opportunities.
Most of the time the fabric tells me,what to do with it!
Meet 24 year old Zimbabwean designer who has changed the lives of many as he uses his fashion designing as well as tailoring talent to dress Kings in Zimbabwe. In an exclusive interview wit him,he explains more about his brand and where his inspiration before he designs comes from.In addition he outlines his defination about what the term fashion means to him and the outlook of the country’s fashion sector.
Q.Can you introduce yourself to the readers ?A.My name is Tinashe Kahlela aged 24.Born and raised in Bulawayo.I am a professional fashion designer and a model.
Q.Some say fashion is part of art ,what is your definition of fashion?A.Fashion is how something is done and how you express your inner ability to create/design .Fashion is art
why am I saying so,from designing, sketches,pattern making,cutting up to tailoring it’s all art.
Q.Can you tell us more about your brand?A.Houz of Tinashe is brand which classifies a luxurious lifestyle through authentic signature style that sets
me apart from the competition.As our motto says “ FASHION IS ART AND ART LIVES HERE” we define art
through our creativity which knows no limit.
Q.What inspires your designs before you actually design them ?A.l would be lying if I say I get inspiration before I design because most of the time the fabric tells me
what to do with it.And in the process I get more creative as um working on the garment .What I can say
is that it’s the inner ability I was gifted by God.
Inspiration is in the air you just have to capture it (Karl Lagerfeld).
Q.You have dressed Kings as a brand and one of them is Zibusiso, can you tell us the story behind the suit you designed for him at Misters of Zimbabwe ?A.What defines a King is to dress like one.
Q.Apart working with Kings who is your specifical clientele ?A.As a brand am targeting those who aspire to a life of luxury,with a desire for opulence and our designs
will leave a feeling of royalty.
Q.Do you believe that the fashion designing industry in Zimbabwe its reaching international standards?A.To a certain extent it is but as local couturiers we have limited resources so it will be hard for us to reach
international standards as we will be also limited in being creative due to lack of resources.
Q.Where do you see the future of your brand ?A.My aspiration is to strive ,to create a signature style that represents my brand and resonates with a
specific target audience.This goal will help me establish my brand identity and become the cornerstore
When Nigeria hosted their significant modelling pageant,Mister Ideal the question was which state was going to win the contest.Dominating the pageant was Mister Ideal Abuja.He became one of the favourites to win the title.
Daniel Olatunji a fitness content creator was announced as the winner of Mister Ideal Nigeria a title that is expected to open international doors for him just like his predecessors. In a conversation with him,Daniel provides an insight on what is next for him .
TR:Can you briefly tell us about yourself?DO:I’m Daniel Olatunji, a fresh graduate of Statistics from the Ekiti State University, I’m a Forex day trader and a lifestyle and fitness content creator and an aspiring actor, I love working out, swimming and learning new things.
TR:What made you to contest for Mister Ideal Nigeria?DO:It all started in 2023 when I got an instagram DM from the State franchise (Mr ideal Abuja) Saying I’ve got possible chances in being an ideal man, I went through their track record and saw for myself a great opportunity for me to put myself out there, seeing how mr ideal Nigeria has made stars from their past kings, I got instant interest and decided to contest for the competition.
TR:You were nominated in more than five categories,what was your favourite and why?DO:My favorite nomination was the ‘Business Icon’ This task wasn’t an easy task, Having to deal with business items and coming out with the right numbers, it was my favorite nomination because it allowed me apply what I have learnt in school first hand having to deal with numbers and analysis, which I enjoyed doing through the whole process, was glad to come out as one of the nominees.
TR.Do you believe height and being a body builder and character play a major role in modeling ?DO:Having a good amount of height plays a major role in modeling for sure and also Character play, I believe those are the major two, but I would say bodybuilding is not a major requirement in modeling because one could get so big in bodybuilding and that isn’t really needed in the modeling industry.
TR.Among the categories which you were nominated in is the best national or culture costume can you tell us what inspired the design ad who designed for you?DO:We were asked to create a costume of an African warrior or deity
And I was inspired by the sun , so my stylist had to create an African deity of the sun , and we picked the Igbo deity
ANYANWU
Anyanwu (anyaanwū, meaning “eye of the sun” in Igbo) is the sun god of the good fortune, knowledge, and wisdom in the traditional Igbo religion called Odinala. He is an alusi, a tutelary spirit that was created by the Supreme god, Chukwu, to fulfill a specific responsibility related to nature or a principle.
The gold color represents the color and ray from the sun
The cawries signify wealth, the mirrors stands for truth
My costume was designed by
OSEMWENGIE DENNIS ODION
his Instagram handle is @dennis_odion
TR:Through out the event why was social media important to you ?DO:Social media was so important for me because this was where I had the medium and opportunity to communicate fully well to my fans, well wishers and also to the world on my life journey as an Ideal Man, through out all the camp I posted our daily activities to give my audience a follow up on what was going on.
TR:Given a moment to tour across Africa which country would you embarke your journey to?DO:I would say South Africa, Because it’s a beautiful place and has lost of tourist attractions.
TR:As Mister Ideal Nigeria how are you planning to use your title to inspire others to inspire someone? DO:I plan to use this title to create awareness out there majorly to the young ones out there, by bringing up scholarship programs and events in schools around Lagos to start with.
TR.If you were given an opportunity to create a new law that will benefit Nigerian youths what will it be ?DO:The Nigerian government should lift then ban of the use of crypto currency in Nigeria.
TR:What is next for you?DO:My Acting Journey Begins for me, being in the movie industry has been a long passion for me, and Mr Ideal Nigeria has given me the Best and right Background to build on, My Scholarship to a Top Acting Academy in Nigeria (Royal Arts Academy)
Out of the 20 models registered under Clout Inc Models at least 12 of them will be graduated on the 13th of July this year at a prestiguos event at Euphorie events in Killarney from 16:00hours to 20:00hours.
The event is set to be hosted under the theme Masquerade .
The ceremony is expected to be attended by prominently models both established and up coming models.
According to the organisers this will give an opportunity for those who are active in the modelling industry to share and network about their experiences.
One of the main missions of Lout Inc Models is focusing in commercial based despite being a versitale modelling agency, as it aims in grooming pageantry models .
“We are hoping to create models which push social causes and there is evidence of such works in the ground .
“Furthermore we are an inclusive and diverse modeling agency with plus size and petite models also incorporating mothers in the mix ,”said organisers in s press statement.
The board of the Clout agency members are popularly known in the modelling sector, these are The board consists of :Patron – Mrs Manungo the Chief advisor Miss Ricky Nathanson in the USA ,International Liason director – Miss Givens Chavarika,Mavis Koslek oldest model guru from Midlands province ,Golden globe director – Mr J. Mpofu ,Admistration director Mrs S Gumpo and two other anonymous directors.
Was informed informed that the following companies were engaged to sponsor the event bythe agency,ZB bank ,Sunset funerals ,Edgars group of companies CEO
Mambazo ,Rooftop Restuarant,Mal oriente,Lizzys Studio for hair ,Rooftop Restuarant for food
WORLD OF FASHION & MODELLING 