“Entering into a descending surreal realm of Aladdin reimagined in Royal opulence… “
With @ishmael_tsakatsa Creative director of @zarguesia in a cropped shimmer tux encrusted with pink topaz and amethyst gemstones, over a beaded aura quartz organza shirt paired up with 3/4 wide leg brocade pants punctuated with a black transparent corset and sequin velvet cap for the @veekeejamesmasterclass finale night
Tinashe Chihumba is my name. I am a 33 year old with a wife and a son. Am very much a family man. I was born and bred in Southerton, Harare.
I have always had a passion for modeling and acting since I can remember. I got my first chance to feature in an advertisement for Lafarge Cement via Top Model back in 2022 From then on I have been doing different gigs .
I got to be one of the models who did the catwalk at Zim AfroT10 when we were called in for auditions through Top Model Zimbabwe and I got selected by three designers namely Zuvva, Dapper Kings and Zarguesia.
Personally, modeling at Zim Afro T10 was an honor for me because I had never modeled for such a huge crowd . It greatly boosted my confidence and I was grateful for the exposure. This will go a long way on my resume.
The designers I catwalked for were Zuvva, Dapper Kings and Zarguesia. The Zuvva outfit had a neat safari vibe to it. The calico cream cotton shirt was a unique fabric. Coupled with the green pants , mustard paper beads and the leather bag was a nice touch. Appreciated the casual plus formal looks from the other two designers . Dapper Kings’ stylish slim fit formal jacket. Also Zaguesia’s immaculate pants with the scarf for a nice finish.
On the first day before the show I was pretty much nervous as this was my first catwalk. Had only previously done more of acting and posing for pictures prior.
I think sports events that are working with fashion players like myself are doing in great job by giving some of the spotlight to both designers & models. This gives us exposure
My next stop should be:Paris fashion show, new York fashion weeks
Its been a month since the ZimAfro T10 ended, the show was not only attended by the cricket fans,fashion and modeling fans attended the event to support fashion designers who were exhibiting their designs. Zim model,Rodon Johnston had an a opportunity to grace the event not as a spectator but as a model who catwalked at the event for prominent brands in the fashion industry. In an interview with him,he share some of his experience. .
Q.Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?A. My name is Rodon Johnston born and raised Zimbabwean, I am a model and I work with Top Model Zimbabwe. I have been a border as well as been day Schooled. Apart from modeling I also enjoy making music with my guitar. Not the greatest at singing though however I have written a few songs.
Q.When did your modeling journey began?A. My Modeling journey began in the middle of COVID near the beginning of 2021. I have done a few fashion shows and various shoots.
Q.How did you manage to be part of the models who catwalks at the Zim AfroT10?A. Well I was called by my Manager Karin Coric of Top Model to go to the casting and I was the right fit and was selected.
Q.As a model what are the benefits that you had in terms of cat walking at the cricket fashion show?A. I would say the main benefit (apart from the great payment) of being a model is, getting to meet new people as this opens up opportunities for the future as you widen your circle and get more contacts from around the world.
Q:Who are the designs/ brands that you catwalked for and what was your take of their collections?A. I walked for Dapper Kings a very smart and formal design. Zerguiesa, was out there with a great Royale blue collection with very comfortable soft materials. Afro Phoenix bought out an original feel with their Trench coats which not many people wear these days, the designs of the coats I had never seen before. Denim Don, this one was my favorite, because it was something completely new to with respect to Denim clothing, and the outfit was absolutely made to measure.
Q.During the first day before you catwalked for the show what was in your mind?A. Well, I was excited knowing that the events would be streamed globally which would offer me great exposure, another first for me. To think how many people would see my face .
Q.What is your take on sports events that are working hand in had with fashion players like yourself?A. Well I suppose it is a huge contrast going from Sports to Fashion but it does tie in as design plays a big role on sports nower days as everyone wants to look great on their day! It is great though because as mentioned earlier it gives opportunities to more people, to show what they’ve got!
Q.Which fashion event are you hoping to catwalk in future?A. If I ever could It would be so awesome to catwalk in the Paris Fashion Week! For a start is one of the biggest fashion events in the world and I might be able to meet Caleb McLaughlin from one of my favorite tv shows Stranger things, not only all that but Paris is a beautiful City that I would love to visit!
Who will be the next Miss Tshwane as Jennifer Gumbi will be handing over the title reigns to Miss Tshwane 2023.
The coronation of the next Queen will be held at At Cullinan Zonderwater Correctional Services(Recreational Hall) in a date that will be advised by the organisers later this year.
However the contestants have been conducting preliminaries.
The outgoing Queen said the title has been a light that shines bright not only in her ways but everyone in Tshwane province.
“Holding this title is like holding up a beam of light so that not only I can see but also the people around me,”she said
These are the Queens battling for the throne :
Ronewa Mamatho 22 years old from Pretoria
Ntombi Hlumbane 19 years old from Bronkhorstspruit
Winnie Mathibela 23 years old from KwaNdebele
Letlhogonolo Mogomotsi 21 years old from Hammaskraal
Here are 5 pieces of advice I have for future Mister Africa International contestants: – Be yourself: Authenticity is essential. Don’t try to imitate other candidates or change who you are to fit a certain image. Show your personality, your charisma and your true nature. It’s your uniqueness that will make you a memorable candidate. – Prepare yourself physically and mentally: The competition requires good physical condition, so make sure you’re fit and healthy. Train regularly, maintain a balanced diet and take care of your mental well-being. Self-confidence and a positive attitude are also essential. – Know your culture and country: As a representative of your country, it’s important to have a thorough knowledge of your culture, history and current issues. Be prepared to share this information during interviews and presentations. – Develop your communication skills: Communication is a key skill in this competition. Practice public speaking, expressing your ideas clearly and concisely, and answering questions articulately. Work on your elocution, body language and stage presence. – Get involved in social causes: Show your commitment to social causes that are close to your heart. Identify important issues in your country or around the world and find ways to contribute. Get involved in philanthropic actions or community initiatives. This will demonstrate your sense of responsibility and your desire to make a positive difference.
Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience, learn and grow as an individual, whatever the results of the competition. Use this opportunity to meet inspiring people, expand your network and make your voice known beyond the contest itself.