Today’s post is an interview of a Zimbabwean designer. I have never met her just seen her work work on Facebook and Etsy. Here is the interview I conducted and at the bottom you will find the pictures of her work.
1. Please introduce yourself and let everyone know a little bit about where you’re from and say a few words about how you got started sewing?
My name is Fungai V W Nembaware,born 33 years ago at Mkoba Clinic in Gweru in independence day.I grew up in the small town of Gweru and was educated there up to tertiary education.I went to Fletcher High School where my passion for sewing increased.I was placed in the loving care of Mam Mable Ndaguta who was such a beautiful soul.I loved everything about sewing and she taught me well.I owe my success to her loving teaching skills.She increased my love for sewing and designing.Growing up my mother used to make us beautiful pinafore dresses using her hand wound Singer Sewing machine.I used to join pieces to make clothes for my doll.My late friend Maina also used to make clothes for her doll using her mothers sewing machine.It was just a blissful period in my life.
2. How long have you been sewing and who or what inspired you to start sewing?
Answered part of it above.I always used to just think of some idea and cut out fabric and sew.But I never really followed this passion as sewing was not a great career when we were growing up,it was seen as an outlet for failures.
I have always designed my own outfits and remember designing my leavers dinner gown so I guess somethings are always within and need us to do something to awaken them fully.Since 2008 I have been sewing skirts,dresses,tops and making accessories like belts and bowties but mostly for myself and friends.In 2011 that is when I became more visible to the public
but I would say the clothing bit of Zuwa Re was launched in 2012.Its a growing brand.I design couture gowns and make maxi skirts and dresses.I have taken myself back to a refresher course in sewing to appreciate the skills of making bespoke gowns.I love the direction I am taking and I believe I can achieve anything as long as I focus.
3. What influences your color choices and style?
I love African fabric,bold print and colourful striking designs.Just this Afropolitan feel is what tickles me.Obviously now there is an African heat wave but I have loved African print prior to this current trend.I love it when a Bantu goddess appreciates her curves and embraces them by rocking some African print.I think these prints just accentuate our real African beauty.Something so regal is captured when an African lady wears African print.Very captivating and that’s what I love about African print.Unique and beautiful.
4. What do you enjoy the most about what you do?
I love meeting my fellow sisters and convincing them to embrace their African print and wear it more often.I meet and learn from different sisters and its amazing what we can give each other when we open our hearts to love.Its just priceless.I met you through my work.Now you are my sister and promoting me.Now that’s amazing.
5. Where can people find your work?
I am on Facebook . I also have a shop on Etsy that am currently stocking. The link to the shop is www.zuwarebespoke.etsy.com. I will soon be featured on anglonubia.com and am working with some ethical shops to have my work and its all at advanced stages.
6. What’s next on the horizon for you Zuwa Re? Can you tell us anything specific we should be on the lookout for new items any other projects you have in the works?
African bridal collection.I want to go that route.I only ever make exclusive work.I do not make more than 3 pairs of the same shoe and I use quality shoe brands like Aldo or reputable online shops.This is to just maintain exclusivity of my work as I am of the belief that when someone pays they must not bump into someone wearing the same item.Right now am just enjoying the maxi collection inspired by my mothers pinafore dresses.I am creating other pieces in the background which I will unveil soon.Creativity only sleeps when we expire from this planet.Most of my inspiration is from ancient Africa. I love the unique pieces back then.More work will definitely be unveiled soon.
