Imprint designer Mzukisi Mbane showcases his work at Durban July

by Limpho Nonkonyane

Hollywood Bets Durban July saw many designers from across the country showcase their work, as Imprint designer and creative director Mzukisi Mbane dressed a few celebrities in exclusive gowns for the #ForeverWena movement.

Cape Town-born designer partnered up with celebrities such as the former Miss South Africa 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida, actors Kwenzo Ngcobo and Dillon Windvogel, model & doctor Dr Karishma Ramdev, drag queen Manilla von Teez, and TikTok sensation Wynand Kotze for the campaign. According to the website, this campaign aims to create open spaces for conversations about intimacy and educate people about sexual health.

Reports by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, state that 2,5 million people out of the country’s 7,9 million are living with HIV.

Speaking to GlamourSA on the inspiration behind his creations for the Hollywoodbets Durban July, Mzukisi said, “I love creating with a story in mind, that’s what Imprints creations are rooted in. The first step was using the Forever Wena campaign messaging and coming up with fresh unique prints that work for Imprint, Forever Wena and the personality wearing the garment,” adding, “The most exciting part of my creative process was when I got to create designs that embodied each of the personalities involved in the campaign. This is where the fun began, I loved the challenge of creating a #ForeverWena x Imprint world where these different personalities exist.”

Former Miss SA Shudu told news publication IOL, that she decided to support this movement as there has been a stigma against HIV where people aren’t having necessary conversations about the virus.

“I work in the gender equity and health space, specifically mental health and the alarming statistics I have seen on the prevalence of HIV/Aids among the youth are alarming, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. I chose to join the campaign as an advocate for an HIV-free generation, and that starts with education in the most accessible and relatable way — getting information about where people are and not where we want them to be,” she said.

Also see: The Hollywoodbets Durban July: Extravagant fashion meets horse racing