Although they may be miles away from their motherland, Zimbabweans in the diaspora continue to feel connected to their country of birth. Whether be it music, food, sport, or even language; diasporans remain deeply rooted with their Zimbabweaness.
It was only a matter of time before that found its way to fashion — in the form of a sizzling hot collaboration between Pfeka and Amapiano hostess Captain Lulaz. The new collection is called Kapiten — a collaborative effort between Pfeka and Zimbabwean-born Amapiano hostess Captain Lulaz, who is based in the United Kingdom.
The collection’s name, Kapiten, is a playful twist on Captain Lulaz’s stage name. The Kapiten collection features crop tops with bold Zimbabwean motifs and the Great Zimbabwe stone symbols. .The Kapiten collection currently comes in yellow, white and a vibrant earth tone that complements different looks and moods; making it perfect for the fashion-forward youth.
In the fashion world where variety of crop tops are being celebrated by different cultures, but none that represent Zimbabwe so Captain Lulaz and Pfeka created something that allows Zimbabweans to embrace it’s heritage while making it fashionable and accessible.
Speaking to Mcheno and More, Pfeka managing director Eglet Mtengwa-Nyabvure saw the collection as an effort by Captain Lulaz to represent her country of nativity.
“The inspiration behind this collection comes with the desire to represent where Captain Lulaz comes from. The Great Zimbabwe stone motifs are embedded to tell our story in this global village, bringing our history and pride into every design,” she described.
The creative process was deeply personal and fulfilling as described by Nyabvure. She narrates how they went through their creative process; “We wanted to balance modern aesthetics with traditional elements, especially with the Great Zimbabwe stone motifs, which required careful design work.”
She continues, “The goal was to make something that resonates with the youth while staying true to the rich Zimbabwean culture.”
According to Nyabvure, Pfeka and Captain Lulaz were brought together for the Kapiten Collection due to her influence, as well as her connection to her homeland. “The collaboration came naturally, her influence in the Amapiano scene, combined with her pride in Zimbabwean heritage, made her the perfect partner to bring this vision to life. Captain Lulaz embodies the vibrancy and energy that aligns perfectly with the essence of this collection,” gushed Nyabvure.
Since it’s release, the collection has been getting rave reviews from young Zimbabweans in the diaspora, as well as the international community at large.
”It highlights the pride that Zimbabweans, especially the younger generation, have in their identity. It’s heartwarming to see people embrace heritage fashion. What excites me the most is that people from outside Zimbabwe are also connecting with the collection, which shows that our designs aren’t just representative but also universally fashionable and attractive,” she added.
The Kapiten Collection is what we need to see — Zimbabweans across the world celebrating their heritage through fashion. It is important for the new generation to stay rooted in their identity, and some snazzy crop tops will do the trick — thanks to Pfeka and Captain Lulaz.
You can get your colourful Kapiten crop-top directly online or at Old Hararians Sports Club.
