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Arts Reporter

One of Zimbabwe’s top designers and stylist, Ishmael Tsakatsa, continues to raise Zimbabwe’s flag high in fashion and designing.

He was recently voted the best designer at a draping competition held in Nigeria.

Tsakatsa who is the founder and head designer for the Zargue’sia brand, beat 14 other established designers at a ceremony held at Jewel Aieda, Lekki, Lagos.

For his efforts, Tsakatsa walked away with a 300 000 Naira, whch is equivalent to US$200.

Speaking on the sidelines of the competition, Tsakatsa said there was need to host similar competitions in Zimbabwe to boost the sector.

He said that the rapid growth of the fashion and designing sector will employment in the industry and also spawn creativity.

“The local industry is growing and fashion designers need more opportunities to be equipped with knowledge and skills so that they can survive in a competitive global fashion space,” said Tsakatsa.

“We need more of these competitions. Fashion is business hence, it should be taken seriously as it can sustain livelihoods.

“Sometimes such initiatives should also come from designers rather than wait for other organisations to host fashion shows, runways and exhibitions among others.”

He said Zimbabwe boasts of talented but unheralded designers.

Commenting on the competition, he said the event was an eye-opener

“It was a draping competition where we were picked at random and we were expected to create a garment on a mannequin with whatever materials you were provided with, within a small-time frame,” he said.

“From 15 entrants, three participants were selected for the final competition. There was no theme in particular, but they were looking for creativity, innovation, and ability to work under pressure within limited time.”

Looking into the future, Tsakatsa said he has started working on growing his brand to attain international standards.

“I am taking my brand to another level in the global space outside of Zimbabwe and Africa. I look for opportunities and make my way.”