Our Fashion Editor Cheryl Musimwa had a chat with 26-year-old, Tapfumanei Munenge, a force to be reckoned with in Zimbabwe’s fashion industry who has a fierce personality to match.

Tapfumanei teamed up with David Mnaba to take the fashion industry by storm and with their combined creative expertise, they currently run three labels under Web Incorporated.

Cheryl Musimwa: Who is your ultimate style inspiration?
Tapfumanei Munenge: Style is a state of mind that can be altered by different seasons and moods. You are what you are and what you wear is just fabric, hence, my ultimate style inspiration is not defined by clothing, instead, it is a state of mind which I alter with clothes.

CM: How has your work developed and evolved since you started your fashion label?
TM: My work ethic is not governed by development or evolution. I believe it has all been done before; a skirt will always remain a skirt even if you put a collar on it.

CM: Any comments on the Zimbabwean Fashion Industry?
TM: Fashion is expected to contribute a higher percentage in terms of revenue, but with lack of support and funding, creatives are hindered from expanding and growing to their full potential. We don’t only need monetary support; we need relevant workshops that support the cause and the establishment of a fashion council that regulates the local products to match international standards.

To keep up with everything Tapfumanei, follow him on these platforms:
Instagram – tapfumaneimunengecouture
Facebook – Tapfumanei Munenge

Learn more about Tapfumanei Munenge (TM) here.

Professional credentials and/or awards:
FASHION DESIGNER AT THE WEB INCORPORATED
EMERGING DESIGNER AT ZIMBABWE FASHION WEEK 2014
GUEST DESIGNER AT INTSWA FASHION WEEK
GUEST DESIGNER AT MPUMALANGA FASHION AND DESIGN WEEK
2016 DESIGNER OF THE YEAR NOMINEE (ZIMBABWE)

*This interview has been edited and condensed.

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