A QUIET but powerful transformation is reshaping Zimbabwe’s fashion industry, driven by the Creative DNA programme — a fashion accelerator backed by the British Council and the Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe.
That momentum gathered pace last week when local brand Haus Of Stone Showroom, in partnership with Fashion Scout — an award-winning UK-based fashion consultancy and talent development platform — hosted an intensive Fashion Bootcamp in Harare from March 30 to April 3.
Launched locally in 2025, Creative DNA has already trained more than 200 designers and fashion entrepreneurs since its debut in Kenya in 2020. The programme has since expanded to Ethiopia, Senegal, Malawi, Uganda and Zimbabwe, opening new pathways for collaboration, mentorship and professional development across the region.
Participants undergo hybrid training led by experienced practitioners from Africa and the UK, equipping them with practical skills to strengthen both creative output and business acumen.
The Harare bootcamp brought together emerging designers for an immersive programme focused on building sustainable, globally-competitive fashion businesses. Sessions were led by Martyn Roberts and Billie Roberts of Fashion Scout, who shared insights drawn from more than two decades of experience working with international designers and fashion weeks.
They were joined by regional and local industry figures, including Joyce Chimanye of Zuvva, Ann McCreath of Kenyan label Kikoromeo, Gilmore Khumalo of Paper Bag Africa and the I Wear My Culture initiative, as well as representatives from ZimTrade.
Together, they delivered sessions on product and commercial identity, product development and quality control, export readiness, and storytelling and market presentation — arming participants with the tools needed to compete beyond local markets.
A highlight of the week was a networking mixer held at Newlands Country Club in collaboration with Cultured Republik, bringing together designers, industry players and cultural stakeholders to exchange ideas and build connections.
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Haus of Stone founder Danayi Madondo said the collaboration with Fashion Scout had elevated the programme by giving designers direct exposure to global standards and mentorship.
“This week has been a powerful reminder of the depth of talent we have in Zimbabwe. Through the Creative DNA programme, we are not only nurturing creativity, but equipping designers with the tools, networks and confidence to compete on a global stage,” Madondo said.
Now in its second year in Zimbabwe, Creative DNA continues to support emerging creatives through mentorship, seed funding and access to international markets, with a strong focus on product development, quality control, cultural storytelling and brand building.
Its impact is already evident. In February, Zimbabwean accessory designer Chido Kaseke was selected for the Creative DNA x Studio Smithfield programme, while last August, footwear and accessories brand Rungano Rwedu showcased at the 15th edition of Africa Fashion Week London as a Creative DNA Seed Awardee and 2025 participant.
By linking local talent to global platforms and markets, the programme is positioning fashion as a viable, sustainable career path — and a growing pillar of Zimbabwe’s creative economy.
