The Eita Skeem Workshop at The Oasis in Belmont kicked off what promises to be a defining platform for Zimbabwe’s creative community. Originally planned as a three-day festival, organizers announced that the next sessions will roll over into next year, with hopes to eventually evolve the event into a five-day celebration of art, fashion, and innovation.

Day One set the tone for what Eita Skeem is all about, connection, collaboration, and community. The event brought together some of Bulawayo’s most dynamic voices across music, fashion, business, and creative strategy to unpack what it means to build and sustain a creative career in today’s fast-changing landscape.

The program featured presentations, panel discussions, and live Q&As, where attendees got to engage directly with seasoned industry figures. Scoo from The Oasis closed with an inspiring message encouraging local creatives to seize available opportunities and leverage the Oasis platform for growth.
Among the standout sessions was an interview led by Brintz from Hip Hop Power Sessions, featuring Asaph Afrika, the multi-award-winning artist, cultural curator, and radio host. Asaph shared insights into his creative journey, his U.S. experience, and the meaning behind his stage name, punctuated by a powerful verse that got the audience buzzing.

Allen Moyo, founder of Dejavu Clothing, delivered one of the most heartfelt moments of the day. Reflecting on his journey, he recalled how his father once dismissed his dreams of going into fashion, warning him he couldn’t compete with established brands like Edgars. “The journey has only just begun,” Allen said proudly. “From Byo to the World.”
The fashion segment also featured Kudzai Rwomwenye Dreams Reality Founder (DRMSRLTY), a streetwear brand “for the trailblazers”, sharing insights on market targeting and challenges faced in Zimbabwe’s apparel industry.
The panel lineup was equally powerful:

Asaph Afrika, co-founder of Kwela Initiative, spoke about creative collaboration and authenticity in storytelling. Naboth Rizzla, the legendary founder of Grapevine Clothing and Hip Hop 263 TV, discussed the intersection of art, business, and longevity in the creative sector. Terrence Mugova, co-founder of Educate and Khonapho Community, explored how creatives can future-proof their lives through strategic thinking and self-awareness.

Mpi Ndebele, co-founder of Innovation for Africa and Oasis Creators Hub, emphasized building sustainable ecosystems for entrepreneurship and innovation. Kyu, host of Mind of a Boyfriend, shared strategies on branding, content creation, and building online traction in an age dominated by algorithms.
Together, these voices painted a vibrant picture of Bulawayo’s creative potential rooted in collaboration, resilience, and innovation.

As Eita Skeem continues to evolve, its mission remains clear: to foster horizontal collaborations between brands, artists, and innovators by putting them in the same room to learn with each other, not just from each other. The energy from Day One promises a powerful foundation for what’s to come. If this workshop was the spark, the full Eita Skeem Festival could well become the flame that lights up Zimbabwe’s creative future.