Eureka Afrika Zimbabwe Issue 2

• Eureka Afrika Zimbabwe Magazine
• An Afro Phoniex Daring Fashion Narratives:
• The Tale Of Blessing Munjeri

ZIM HIP-HOP DOMINANCE The backbone of Zim Hip-Hop

• Zimbabwe Film Industry:
• A New Dawn Amidst
• Shadows [email protected]
• Unveiling African Excellence
• The Met Gala & Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean Fashion Industry Can Learn from Met Gala's Celebration of Black Style.

EUREKA AFRIKAR ZIMBABWE

COVER

@Sthe_mbiso telly

• An Afro Phoniex Daring
• Fashion Narratives
• The Tale Of Blessing Munjeri

Dream & career collision

Miss Universe Zambia 2025 allegedly accused of violating the Ministry of Health ethics. What's the end result?

Zim Hip-Hop Dominance We're witnessing and experiencing the prime of the Zimbabwe music scene through the Zim Hip hop genre and its new MC generation.

• The Met Gala verses
• Zimbabwe
• Zimbabwe fashion

Industry can learn from Met Gala 's celebration of Black style.

Zimbabwe Film industry: A New dawn amidst shadows

Censorship poses serious challenges, filmmakers often fear trying to tell sensitive stories, leading to self-censorship that compromises their artistic vision.

Celebrating iconic 15.

moment with the Queens They are not just models but ambassadors of Zimbabwe opening windows for tourism on a global stage.

• TABLE
• EUREKA
• AFRIKAR. ZIMBABWE
• Afrocentric Talent basket
• Celebrating Afro Excellence

Fashion Narratives

The Tale Of Blessing Munjeri

"It's not easy, but I always fight for what I love, and will not stop because it's a part of me. The journey is not easy, but it's a dream come true. Clothes make me happy, people looking good in my designs make me even happier," said Blessing Munjeri. A fashion designer and founder of Afro

Phoenix.

Story By Mangaliso Lawrence Kabulika

DSTV"

In 2020, marking the onset of his career, Blessing ventured into the designing and styling industry, eyeing African men's wear.

Like any other journey, the first steps are like the pangs of childbirth. The road wasn't a Milky Way for Blessing as from a thirsty pocket, no connection, came a series of rejections, judgments from the court of public opinion, blocking and the master of all lessons from the school of blue-ticking by potential helpers.

"I started my brand with US$30. I didn't even have a brand name or a logo. The only models I knew were the ones I saw on TV, but I told myself that even if people see this as taboo, I'm going to make a name for myself."

"My defining moment would be when my niece, Tanatswa Kaseke, who worked for a local televisionstation, interviewed me and introduced me to a few people in the industry".

"Either way, it wasn't easy because when I reached out to some of them, it was either better blocked or blue ticked," said Blessing.

From local runways to international stages, Blessing is now a force in the industry, bagging accolades across the continent. Not only is he engraving his name on the walls of history, but this exposure has also been an avenue to sharpen his creative sense and style.

"I have been to countries like Malawi where I won Best African Fashion Designer in Men's Wear. Also have been to South Africa where I hosted my runway shows and did a documentary with EXCLUSIVE

• International Award Winner
• National Director SAFA
• @blesssingmunjeri
• Blessing Munjeri [email protected]

"All of these platforms changed my life," he said.

With Zimbabwean fashion on the rise, well that's my opinion as a writer, as I also struggle to establish whether it is dead, stagnant, alive or on death's doorstep. Blessing also shared some sentiments as he sees the industry yet to appreciate fashion and its truism for it to reach its full conception.

Afro Phoenix turns five years old and this has not only been a reflection of Blessing, but it has also fuelled his confidence in his brand as he is constantly challenging the African narrative, representation and presentation of masculinity and modernity.

"Fashion in Zimbabwe is coming to life, but the people in Zimbabwe do not understand fashion yet. I still feel more appreciated internationally rather than right here," said Blessing.

It is his greatest hope that when he gets to explore his life outside fashion, travelling, or just sitting on a couch, munching some popcorn over a horror movie- strange but that's him outside the runway, lights and silhouettes. He gets to breath and say I rewrote the stars.

"The fact that I didn't give up shows that my brand is even going to be bigger and the future is of cause brighter," said Blessing.

Celebrating Afro Excellence

Afro Phoenix Designer

Story By Mangaliso Lawrence Kabulika

Fashion is realism, it goes beyond just wearing different pieces and feeling good in them and the next day you place them in a closet to gather dust. It is a conversation. It's art and creativity in its living and raw form. It's that intentionality. It's freedom. In my years of critiquing art, creativity and culture, I have learnt that every piece not only beautifies the model and makes every fashion critic out there have their pen sway in favour of the designer behind it as they tick the 10/10 score sheet.

It goes beyond that Practice, Products and Perspectives this is what shapes every piece. I got a chance to explore a design by Blessing Munjeri, a fashion designer, stylist and founder of Afro Phoenix, a strictly all male African wear brand. I came across a piece where he wore a Zezuru print, a Louis Vuitton (LV) clutch bag and a casual black formal suit if I may term it. Immediately i was moved, as a critic, as to the weight that whole set carried. It made me realise how much of a deep conversation the designer is having besides setting the wow factor that many will be eyeing.

Firstly, the Zezuru print. Zezuru is a Shona dialect and a symbol of identity for those who are associated with the dialect. Regardless of it being a dialect within others in one mother language, Shona on its own is a dominant language in Zimbabwe with almost 70% of the population speaking it worse still the Zezuru dialect. That on its own is a symbol of dominance, power and pride.

The strategic placement of the LV clutch bag next to the rob is a question Blessing is posing. We all know the Zezuru culture, in fact, the African culture and how it defines masculinity and dominance. That embodies presentation and representation. He could have placed that bag anywhere far from the Zezuru rob, but he intentionally placed it next to the rob. This puts us in the ongoing conversation. What is defining masculinity in the modern world?

Can the African print also stand next to the top world brands? The evolution of African fashion is challenging the norms and values, giving birth to the freedom to express as an African man. Now as you look at that piece how carefully the rob is flowing and hanging on his shoulder its a symbol of dominance, pride, royalty which is a sense that each piece must give when worn.

Lastly, the black suit that he is wearing. This is a representation of modernity, formality and how it can be in union with all aspects of life. Regardless of restrictions that may come with an expression of masculinity, fashion is allowing the modern African man to make her intentionality yet keeping up with the style and trend. It is also another dominant piece on Blessing, yet blending the rest of the pieces is a true reflection of the globalisation of fashion. How it's able to transcend all barriers, creating one conversation yet keeping a sense of truth.

Kabulika

THE MET GALA VERSUS ZIMBABWE

T he Met Gala 2025's theme, "Tailored For You," in connection with the Costume Institute's exhibition "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," offers valuable lessons for the Zimbabwean fashion industry. By celebrating Black dandyism from the 18th century to its impact on modern fashion, the Gala highlights the place of cultural heritage and identity in fashion.

For those who might have witnessed it for the first time or are wondering what goes down on Fashion's biggest night. Well, this publication has you covered. The Met Gala is a renowned annual fashion event that raises funds for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute in New York. It's considered the most prestigious fashion event globally, where attendees showcase their style through elaborate outfits inspired by the theme. The event brings together influential figures from various fields, including fashion, entertainment, sports, and politics, to celebrate the intersection of fashion, art, and culture. Attending the Met Gala is a coveted opportunity, and invitations are highly sought after by celebrities and cultural icons.

In 2025, this year's theme was inspired by the book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, penned by Monica L Miller in 2009. What then is Black Dandyism? Again we're tutoring you, buckle up! Black dandyism is a cultural and fashion movement where Black individuals use style and clothing, rooted in European dandyism, as a means of self-expression and resistance against societal constraints.

Emerging after Emancipation and gaining momentum during the Harlem Renaissance, this movement allows Black people to assert their identity, power, and creativity. At its core, it is about more than just mere aesthetics. It's a way for Black individuals to defy racial and class boundaries that have historically marginalised them. Through embracing elegance, refinement, and distinctive forms of expression, Black dandies challenge societal norms and expectations, showcasing their unique style and cultural heritage.

At its core, it is about more than just mere aesthetics. It's a way for Black individuals to defy racial and class boundaries that have historically marginalised them. Through embracing elegance, refinement, and distinctive forms of expression, Black dandies challenge societal norms and expectations, showcasing their unique style and cultural heritage.

Let's now take a trip back to our motherland, Zimbabwe. What can local designers and fashion brands learn from America's biggest night of fashion?

Consummation Sectors

Not only is the Gala meant for fashion designers and brands, but it is one point where politicians, musicians, art lovers, creatives, promoters, film stars and makers, and sports personalities can gather under one roof for a good cause. The event, which is strictly by invitation, with at least a guest list of about 400 people and a ticket fetching US$ 75,000 this year, imagine how much that will do for our very own Zimbabwean sector.

Zimbabwean designers can draw inspiration from their rich cultural heritage to create unique and authentic designs. We have about 12 various tribes in Zimbabwe, with each having its dress and history. How many of these do you know about their way of life? Food for thought. By incorporating traditional patterns, motifs, and textiles into their work, local designers can showcase the country's diverse cultural identity. This approach can also help to differentiate Zimbabwean fashion in the global market.

EUREKAM AFRIKAR ZIMBABWE

It could be even channelled towards building our own fashion museum or reviving the fashion and textile industry that used to be around but eroded with the test of time. Not only is it about building and reviving the industry but an appreciation of the local brands and designs as well as celebrating them and sharing ideas on how best we can improve not only between designers but also from various voices of the Zimbabwean circle because at the end of the day we all love to dress and own the glitz and glamour. Sustainability and Regenerative Practicess

The local fashion industry can also learn from the growing trend of sustainable and regenerative practices in fashion. There is a need for local designers to explore ways to reduce fashion waste, promote eco-friendly production methods, and create more mindful consumption. The world is considering an environmentally conscious industry, hence we can also adopt all that from the Met Gala into our brands.

Eureka Afrika Zimbabwe | @eurekaafrikazw_

The Met Gala's platform for showcasing A-list celebrities and their stylists can inspire Zimbabwean designers to collaborate with local influencers, models and artists. The honours rests upon the industry to tell the Zimbabwean story or even the African story at large through our pieces. There are various events that have shaped and almost broken the Zimbabwean plateau which the world deserves to know. There is no greater way to explore our country's journey motif through dressing and challenging the societal norms.

Fashion Lifestyle

• Miss Universe
• Lambia '25'
• A Career and A Dream collide
• AFRIKAR
• ZIMBABWE kunda Mwamufiona

MISS UNIVERSE proud.

unda Mwamulima, a registered nurse and the newly crowned Miss Universe Zambia, is facing controversy for participating in the Swimwear segment of the Miss Universe Pageant, which allegedly violates the regulations of the Zambian healthcare system. Kunda was crowned Miss Universe Zambia 2025 on April 20 at the Mulungushi National Conference Centre in Lusaka, where she competed against 20 other participants for the prestigious title. Unfortunately, her victory celebrations have been overshadowed by social media posts demanding that Kunda explain her actions regarding medical ethics for appearing in public in a bikini. Kunda Mwamulima is not new to the modelling industry. In 2023, she was crowned.

Miss Earth Zambia, advocating for eco- farming practices that emphasise organic fertilisation and crop rotation. Additionally, the Kalulushi-based model holds the title of Top Model of the World 2023, where she placed in the top 16 at the competition held in Egypt. Alice Masuku, director of Arm Model Management, which manages the reigning Miss Universe Zambia, Kunda Mwamulima, made a comment on a Facebook livestream, highlighting umwana wetu, translating to "our child", also stating that she will write to the Ministry of Health concerning the alleged matter.

The alleged issue has been on hold for months, which might suggest that our esteemed Miss Universe Zambia, Kunda Mwamulima, has a chance to represent her country at the 72nd Miss Universe. As an experienced pageant model, Kunda

Mwamulima has much to offer on that grand stage, making her country and its people.

• Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025
• MISS UNIVERSE ZIMBABWE www
• IND

MISS

MISS UNIVERSE ZIMBABWE

On May 17th, an elegant and celebratory event took place as the Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant captivated the town, with icon Connie Ferguson serving as one of the judges. Nine finalists from across Zimbabwe competed for the Miss Universe Zimbabwe crown during a night filled with glitz and glamour. The event featured a performance by award-winning artist Nutty O at the Hippodrome in Harare, along with a red-carpet showcase to appreciate fashion culture. The night concluded spectacularly with Lyshanda Moyas being crowned Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025. Originating from Gweru, Lyshanda is set to represent Zimbabwe on the international stage at Miss Universe in Thailand on November 21.

The return of Miss Universe Zimbabwe, under the management of Tendai Hunda, marks a significant turning point in the Zimbabwean modelling industry, establishing it as the people's favourite organisation. With three queens on its roster, Brook Bruk Jackson, Sakhilezi Dube, and reigning Queen Lyshanda Moyas, the organisation is already making a bold statement as a leading force in the zimbabwe modelling industry.

Continuing the conversation about pageantry, we have Courtney Jongwe, our Miss World Zimbabwe 2025. Courtney recently participated in the Miss World Grand Finale in India, where she achieved a top ten placement for Miss World Africa. At just 23 years old, she also ranked in the top 20 for the Miss World Multimedia challenge. Courtney is currently in her final year at Manicaland State University, Zimbabwe, studying applied science.

ZIMBABWE

MISS WORLD ZIMBABWE

On the pageant front, we also have the dedicated and resilient Queen Pauline Marere, who is currently in Poland representing Zimbabwe. Pauline has been winning awards and placing in Miss Supranational challenges, including reaching the Suprachat semi-finals. She serves as a significant influence for many young women in Zimbabwe, as she is not only a model but also a professional electrical engineer pursuing her second degree in maxillofacial surgery. We wish her the best of luck in her journey as Miss Supranational Zimbabwe 2025.

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• An Zimbabwe Film Industry:
• A New Dawn Amidst
• Shadows
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The Zimbabwean film he industry is beginning to shine

Film & Television

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International platforms like

In recent years, the quality of Zimbabwean films has seen a remarkable transformation. Netflix and film festivals are starting to recognise and more bright with exciting upgrades in technology and Filmmakers are now storytelling, Zimbabwean embracing high-definition celebrate Zimbabwean talent.

filmmakers are stepping up, crafting narratives that resonate both at home and abroad. But as we celebrate these advancements, we must confront the challenges dim threatening promising light.

to A Daves Guzha and Joe Njagu film

• EMMANUEL MBIRIMI
• HENRY B. J PHIRI
• BASED ON TRUE EVENTS

THE LETTER

Breakout hits like Cook Off, cameras and advanced editing software tools that were previously out of reach for many. This technological leap has resulted in visually stunning films that this beautifully

The Letter and The Signal, a Syfy Film with a Bulawayo Cast, have garnered global attention, opening doors for more Zimbabwean stories to reach wider audiences.

the capture Zimbabwean

Workshops training and richness of programs equipping aspiring filmmakers with the skills they need to succeed in this competitive landscape.

are popping up, COOK OFF

THE AWARD WINNING ZIMBABWEAN ROMANTIC COMEDY culture and history.

• NATASHA DLAMINI
• TAWANDA DENGA
• MANYATHELA
• THE SIGNAL
• CROSS
• COMING SOON
• NETFLIX
• COMING SOON

filmmakers.

Despite these bright spots, the industry faces significant hurdles. Funding remains a critical issue, with many filmmakers struggling to secure financial backing for their projects. This often leads to a reliance on personal funds, which limits marketing and distribution efforts, ultimately stifling the reach of their films. Censorship poses serious challenges, filmmakers often encounter obstacles when trying to tell sensitive stories, leading to self-censorship that compromises their artistic vision. This environment can stifle creativity, resulting in a narrow range of stories being told often the safest ones that avoid controversy.

As our Zimbabwean film industry evolves, it stands at a crossroads, balancing the promise of progress. against significant challenges. By embracing innovative storytelling and mentorship programs while addressing systemic issues, the industry can illuminate the rich narratives waiting to be told. The contributions of Zimbabwean actors on international platforms not only enhance the visibility of our stories but also provide invaluable support invaluable support to local

Among the trailblazers are Zimbabwean actors who are making waves internationally. Danai Gurira, known for her powerful performances in The Walking Dead and Black Panther, Sibongile Mlambo recently cast in the Power Book III "Raising Kanan", we also have Tendaiishe Chitima shining alongside legends like Viola Davis in the 2025 film G20. These talented actresses not only shine on the global stage but also champion African stories in Hollywood. These actors are not just stars, they are mentors and advocates for the local film scene. By engaging in workshops experiences, and sharing their they inspire young filmmakers and actors to pursue their dreams and invest in their craft.

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International actress and filmmaker known for Netflix's "Lost in Space" and "Florida Man" Freeform's "Siren," NBC's 'The Blacklist," ABC's "MacGyver" Starz's "Raising Kanan" and the films "Honey 3" and "The Last Face." European Film Festival Zimbabwe's longest-serving jury member and Rotary Goodwill

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TOPIC: HARARE TO HOLLYWOOD DESCRIPTION: MAPPING THE PIVOTAL MOMENTS THAT HAVE SHAPED A GLOBAL CAREER

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Actrice de cinéma et de télévision Creative Business Consultant & Entrepreneur Zimbabwe www.french-african.org

CONCERT B.

MAGEE

A THE New Kids of Lyrical

Cool & Culture

Eureka Afrika Zimbabwe @eurekaafrikazw_ X O vibrant cultural movement is transforming the musical landscape of Zimbabwe, creating opportunities and paving the way for international recognition. With roots tracing back to the early 2000s, this genre has provided a platform for artistic expression and has become a powerful voice for social change, enabling new norms and values that allow dreams to soar. The new artists emerging in this scene, often called the NEW SKOOL have managed to shape the Zimbabwe music scene and expand its horizons.

From the 808s snares and claps to a culture that shapes society, Zim Hip

Hop has emerged as a powerful music genre, dominating national music charts, showcasing the appreciation its audiences have for the genre. This music style has opened up creative channels for the Zimbabwean people and fostered a sense of belonging and identity.

ZIM HIP-HOP: SIX MONTHS RUN

TOP 5 MVPS OF ZIM HIP HOP

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Looking back, American Zim Hip Hop artists like culture heavily influenced Kayflow, Voltz Jt, and Bagga have developed a subgenre known as Jecha Trap, which adds bdepth to the Zimbabwean music scene. While these details

YOUNG GEMINI

AWA KHIWE

Focusing on sound and rhythm, we highlight Kayflow, known for his hit song "Mupfana WepaJecha." His music uniquely blends hip hop elements with Afrocentric sounds, creating a distinctive style that complements his storytelling ability.

social interactions in Zimbabwe. However, with the rise of the sub-genre of Hip Hop known as Zim Hip Hop, there is now a greater appreciation for the unique harmonies of Zimbabwean may seem minor to those society. This shift represents unfamiliar with the genre, a step towards innovation they represent significant that carries a distinctly progress for enthusiasts who Zimbabwean touch, evident see Jecha Trap as a future in areas like street lingo, music category that boasts lyrical writing, and fashion. its own unique sound and rhythm, rather than being just an offshoot of other styles.

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GAME CHANGERS WHO ARE THE BACKBONES OF ZIM HIP HOP?

GALLER

DEP

The music scene has gained significant attention in various ways. Artists like Holy Ten have demonstrated impressive ability to engage with their fan base, creating a lucrative digital platform that has made him the most- streamed Zim Hip Hop artist. This trend highlights a positive shift in the music industry. Increasingly, more people are becoming aware of the social media platforms that artists use to promote their music. This awareness helps reduce piracy and allows artists to earn revenue from their projects, enabling them to fund the creation of more music.

an The most debated topic in the Zim Hip Hop scene is who holds the title of the King of Zim Hip Hop and what criteria determine this status. In my opinion, several factors classify a musician as the greatest of all time, and each artist has unique attributes that set them apart from others, which is what makes them special.

In Zimbabwean Hip Hop, we have artists like Voltz Jt, Holy Ten, Saint Floew and Bling 4, all of whom have developed their original styles of delivery. Voltz Jt is often regarded as kings of Zim Hip Hop due to his prestigious accolades, such as the National Arts Merit Award (NAMA). Meanwhile, Saint Floew may not have such awards, but he is considered a king in his own right because of his magnificent stage performances and strong brand representation.

MAGE

Eureka Afrika Zimbabwe X@eurekaafrikazw_

Many factors contribute to an artist's claim to the title of king. Bling 4, for instance, is recognized as a king by the streets, thanks to his ties to the Mbare lifestyle and his ability to address real-life issues in his songs.

bling

A commonly asked question that challenges existing narratives is the number of female Zim Hip Hop artists. Is Zim a Hip Hop male- dominated industry? Why are there no discussions about the Queen of rap music in Zimbabwe? The answer to these questions lies in the need to challenge stereotypes and break barriers within the industry as a whole.

music

Afrocentric Talent basket

Female rappers such as Noluntu J, Awa Khiwe, Young Gemini, Banshee, Natasha Muz and kikkybadass have made significant contributions to the genre, topping the charts with their versatile catalogs that blend RnB and Hip Hop, creating a sub-genre termed Hip Hop RnB. While there are female Zim Hip Hop stars, their diversity in lyrics and rhythms significantly expands the musical landscape in Zimbabwe which male artists such as Kae chaps, Micheal Maggz and Nyasha David have managed to manoeuvre becoming part of the Hip Hop R&B community

Zim Hip Hop is not just a fleeting trend, it is a cultural revolution that deserves recognition and support. As listeners, we have the power to uplift these voices and foster an environment where creativity can flourish. Join the movement, celebrate the artists, and embrace the sound of a generation that is unapologetically Zimbabwean. The future of Zim Hip Hop is bright and it is ours to shape.