Zimbabwean designer Langa is preparing to make waves at SA Menswear Week with his powerful new collection titled “Umcwebo,” a showcase deeply inspired by his late father’s teachings and his personal journey as a creative.

“The theme Umcwebo is inspired by the values my late father taught me and my journey as a creative,” said Langa. “I’ve had both good and tough days, and I want the collection to show that mix of strength, struggle, and growth. It reflects my brand because I always tell real stories through my work — stories of heritage, resilience, and staying true to who you are.”

Since debuting at I Wear My Culture — a project facilitated by Paper Bag Africa and the British Council — Langa’s designs have evolved in both confidence and storytelling.

“I’ve become more aware of fabrics, structure, and finishing, and I’m not afraid to experiment more,” he explained. “For SA Menswear Week, people can expect bolder looks, a stronger message, and a more polished presentation — still rooted in culture, but with a fresh edge.”

For Langa, the opportunity to showcase at SA Menswear Week is about more than just fashion; it’s about visibility and connection.

“The most important aspect is visibility — getting my brand seen by a wider audience,” he said. “It’s a chance to connect with new clients, media, and industry players, build strong relationships, and open doors for future collaborations.”

Renowned for weaving traditional Zimbabwean elements into his modern designs, Langa uses fabrics, prints, and silhouettes that celebrate cultural heritage while appealing to global audiences.

“Our heritage is not old or outdated — it’s powerful, stylish, and worthy of being seen on global platforms,” he said.

He admires designers such as Calvin Klein, Maxhosa, David Tlale, Francisco Vedemme, and Zargue’sia, noting that they balance identity with innovation.

“I see myself fitting into that space by bringing a fresh perspective rooted in my culture and experiences, while appealing to a global audience,” Langa shared.

Preparing for the pressure of the runway, Langa remains grounded in authenticity.

“I prepare by staying true to myself, focusing on the positive, and honouring my heritage in every design,” he revealed.

He believes fashion is a bridge between cultures, particularly between Zimbabwe and South Africa.

“Fashion is a powerful way to share culture,” he said. “It helps people understand each other’s traditions and creativity. Through clothing, we celebrate heritage, inspire dialogue, and connect communities across borders.”

As he readies his Umcwebo collection, Langa hopes audiences will feel the story woven into every piece.

“I hope audiences will feel a connection to my heritage and the story behind my designs. Fashion can celebrate culture, creativity, and personal expression in a way that feels authentic and relatable.”