Paheja Siririka
Pricilla Mukokobi
The Unam Space Theatre will be a hive of activity tonight with the showcasing of the first-ever Commonwealth Fashion Show.
The designers are current fashion students and alumni of the University of Namibia (Unam). They will each make two garments to represent each of the 11 Commonwealth countries present in Namibia.
“These designers will draw inspiration from cultural elements from the Commonwealth countries to add value to the creations but also promote an appreciation of cultural diversity,” said communication specialist at the British High Commission Lwimba Mufune.
Mufune stated that their overall objective is to celebrate and promote the diversity of fashion and cultural heritage within the Commonwealth by hosting a unique one-of-a-kind fashion show.
“The fashion show will promote ethical and sustainable fashion practices in Namibia and wider Commonwealth member states. The Namibian fashion industry is growing rapidly, with more talented young designers rising to the challenge of launching their brands. This project provides a platform to support and highlight an industry that has huge potential to create jobs and empower a growing number of Namibian youths looking to build their careers as fashion designers and creatives,” said the ecstatic Mufune who is also a fashion enthusiast.
She noted that the Commonwealth is rich with cultural diversity, which is reflected through fashion, and this project aims to celebrate this uniqueness by allowing the youth of Namibia to interpret and create unique fashion garments that represent the Commonwealth and tell stories about its people.
Fashion studies lecturer at Unam Loini Iizyenda said the garments catering to both men and women are ready-to-wear and range from casual to special occasion attire, incorporating cultural elements inspired by the chosen countries. This involves the utilisation of native fabrics, traditional patterns, vibrant colours, and authentic accessories.
Iizyenda added that guests, including dignitaries representing the Commonwealth countries in Namibia, will grace the event, emphasising its significance in celebrating cultural diversity.
The Music and Drama section of Unam will provide the entertainment.
“We are hoping this initiative will attract more collaborations for our department with fashion design departments from different countries,” Iizyenda believed.
On his part, British High Commissioner Charles Moore told VIBEZ! Namibia has potential in several sectors, hence the mission here in the country has teamed up with partners to host the Commonwealth Fashion Show.
Moore added that the fashion show will highlight the creative skill of young designers in Namibia and equally celebrate the unique and
rich cultural heritage of Commonwealth countries represented in Namibia.
“We saw an opportunity promoted by the Commonwealth Secretariat and wanted to take advantage of it in Namibia to showcase the vibrant talents of young Namibian designers,” he stated.
Moore added that Namibia has potential in so many sectors, and there’s no reason why Namibian fashion shouldn’t be able to penetrate the international market.
Namibia recently celebrated Commonwealth Day with the rest of the members on 11 March under the theme ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth’.
- psiririka@nepc.com.na