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Valerie Mpundu, Youth Interactive Writer

Young designer Mfudzianesu Hellenah Ruparaganda (20) has boldly worn her crown and declared herself queen in her own right, as a fashion designer hailing from the dormitory town of Chitungwiza.

In an interview, the ever-smiling ghetto belle branded as, Hellenah’s Creations, acknowledged her grandmother’s influence in shaping her career path, igniting a bonfire in her little heart at the age of six.

“My grandmother was a gifted designer. She would make dresses for us during Christmas. It was at one event while in her apparel I wished to emulate her,” she said.

“I felt inspired.

“Since then, it was all fabrics and needles. My mom bought me a sewing machine toy, and l learned stitching for my dolls.”

Hellenah said it was hard for her parents to accept her chosen career though now they fully support her.

“It is often a bitter pill to swallow for parents when a child diverts from their set career path.

“My mom wanted me to be a flight attendant and my grandfather was furious. Everyone called me a tailor but I remained true to my passion. The fire in me could not be quenched,” she said.

“Now, I have a story to tell and have my grandmother’s fully-fledged support. I pursued textile technology and design in high school and focused on that only.”

Finding solace in her ever-growing passion, it was all nips, tucks, and turns as she pursued birthing Hellenah designs in 2018 which she fully nurtured to Hellenah’s Creations in 2022.

“I have dealt with some difficult clients and swindlers along the way but, nonetheless, we keep moving,” she declared.

Hellenah has received positive reviews for her work and has proven a stitch in time saves nine, as reviews and recommendations flood her collection.

“I have worked with Don (Dyaan Kumar) on two projects, and have also worked with ‘Thee Amartian (Shazney)’.

“The people I have worked with keep recommending my work and I believe it is a positive review for my brand,” explained Hellenah.

The young designer said the highlight of her career was establishing her brand at a very young age.

“Having to work with celebrities and  earning their trust, was something I cherished the most.”

Hellenah has inspired young girls and women alike.

Given a chance, she said she would love to educate and empower women to pursue their passion.

“I was not afraid to take a stand for what I believed in.

“As such, I want to inspire women to dare step into their dreamland. It is only time that makes everything make perfect sense,” she said.

Taking an in-depth look into the fashion industry in Zimbabwe, the designer said she yearns for exposure and growth,  attracting a broader audience and shaping the trajectory of fashion.

“I would love to see young art manifesting and being appreciated. Creativity should not be boxed. Let us allow the mind to explore and imagine endless possibilities through thread and needle,” she said.

Hellanah’s Creations caters for  a variety of audiences attracting clientele from all age groups.