NATHANIEL GONDO
In 2023, Skeyi and Strobo Fabrik Party announced they were moving from a one-day event to a three-day showcase. That marked the beginning of the Fabrik Party Convention and the genesis of a new era. At the time, this development was met with heavy curiosity around what exactly would unfold across the three days. Everyone knew about fashion, music, and workshops, but less was known about how the programme would line up.
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Credit must go to Ulenni Okandlovu and his team for curating a masterful three-day experience from day one through to day three. A clear tradition was established: the first day dedicated to workshops, followed by music, with fashion closing off the convention. This year's edition, held from October 24 to 26 had a slight deviation, with headliner Muzi performing on Friday. By strategically positioning the main music event on Saturday, organisers allowed attendees to fully immerse themselves in the rave, while reserving Sunday for the cooler, more contemplative mood of the magical and sophisticated runways.
Saturday was pure sound therapy—a day that celebrated music’s ability to unite even the most diverse crowds. From hip-hop to rock, amapiano to EDM, every genre found its moment and, more importantly, its audience. This was not merely a music showcase, but a testament to the Fabrik Convention’s evolving appeal as a genuine platform for varied artistic expression.
The Fabrik Party stage continues to be that platform for every sound, with artists from different genres finding space to exist and thrive. What truly defined the day was the diversity of performers. The line-up felt like a carefully curated playlist, deliberately paced to spotlight different genres, proving that the convention is less about catering to a single sound and more about championing the full force of urban and alternative subcultures.
This commitment to diverse sounds ensured that the stage remained a welcoming space for artists, regardless of their niche or following.
The day began with energy as opening act Israel did what he always does—bringing the momentum needed to jump-start the crowd. His solid, energetic performance closed with a fan-favourite tune that left Fabrikans thirsting for more. That thirst was quickly quenched when Bhekiwe took to the stage. She delivered a splendid performance that maintained the momentum, further demonstrating the range and quality of talent on display. Acid Tears then pulled the audience deeper into rave mode, with the rock band delivering a set that fully ignited the crowd.
The real heroes of the day, however, were not only on stage but also in the crowd. The audience themselves were an unmatched force. Their level of acceptance and willingness to dance to different sounds was powerful, fuelled by an enthusiasm rarely seen at multi-genre events.
Saturday’s music did not just showcase performers; it showcased the power of a collective, diverse audience united under one agenda—ready to groove to any sound.
Sunday: the scintillating runway show
Since its inception, the convention has always been hosted on the last weekend of October, and what better way to end Fabrik Party than with the runway. This year’s showcase stood out, blending modern trends, avant-garde expression, upcycling, and storytelling into a compelling fashion narrative.
The runway was more than a mere display of garments; it unfolded as a storyline that communicated each brand’s beliefs and the spirit of their collections. With more than 15 brands showcasing—some from across the Zambezi River in Zambia—the runway became a resounding success.
What was evident this year was how far brands have moved from the traditional runway format, where models simply walk to display clothes. Designers have elevated their presentations, using the runway to tell stories and create vivid imagery around their collections. Every brand rose to the occasion, fully aware of the magnitude of the stage before them, and they matched it.
Speaking to this publication, one audience member summed it up simply: “The runway shows were crazy.” Asked what stood out, he added, “Loved what Chenesai did. One of the most entertaining shows I have ever witnessed.”
Chenesai Studio’s showcase stood out for its coordination and precision. Each model commanded the runway, giving enough space for individual expression. DJ Zinhle’s What’s My Name featuring Busiswa soundtracked the set perfectly, amplifying the energy of the presentation. The designer herself joined the models on stage, dancing and advocating for women’s empowerment. Her presence embodied the lyrics—queen energy, unapologetic and unmatched.
PLANET AVUR continued its impressive runway streak, having consistently delivered standout showcases since last year’s Fabrik Party. Leading up to this edition, the brand had already participated in five runways, and once again, the designs felt otherworldly—elegant yet wearable. The collection reflected growth and ambition, signalling a clear stride towards the brand’s long-term vision. What may have once seemed like a gimmick has evolved into focused craftsmanship. Notably, within October alone, PLANET AVUR presented three distinct runway collections, each different from the last, underscoring an unapologetic work ethic that continues to set the brand apart.
Rogue and Roll returned for their second SSFP showcase, once again setting the runway ablaze with their signature rebellious energy. Through an inter-city collaboration featuring pieces from Nwoth, Stolen Pieces, and Rogue and Roll, the collection became a statement on the power of collaboration. Each piece expressed individuality while remaining connected through a shared rogue identity.
Brands including Push Project, Zevry Atlas, Manje by Ncha, and Mosimo Fabrics made strong runway debuts, bringing their A-game to Fabrik Party. MKY27 from Zambia drew particular attention with insect-inspired designs that embodied avant-garde fashion at its best.
CET GUD BY CILA reaffirmed their mastery of crochet, presenting neat, minimalistic dresses that highlighted precision and craftsmanship.
With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the runway carried an added layer of meaning. Women designers dominated the showcases, unapologetic in their expression, reinforcing the idea that Fabrik Party is a platform for everyone.
Fresh from a fashion residency in Zambia focused on sustainable design, Pezzeculia arrived prepared. Their collaboration with Evaprints_zw celebrated mindful creation through hand-printed textiles bursting with vibrant energy. The resulting 1970s-inspired pieces honoured Africa’s bold spirit and creativity.
One of the most striking moments on the runway was the diversity of models in both size and age. The era where only tall, slim figures could walk the runway is long gone. Anyone with the right training and passion now has space to shine. The inclusion of models as young as primary school age reinforced Fabrik Party’s commitment to inclusivity, a continuation of last year’s precedent that saw former Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Brooke Bruk Jackson, grace the stage.
Caru.Atelier captured attention with the Heartbeat collection. The storytelling, coordination, and organisation of models created a visually striking and emotionally resonant presentation. The designs were flexible, relaxed, and beautifully constructed, offering pieces that could fit anyone while maintaining a strong aesthetic identity.
YET Galore returned boldly to this year’s runway, collecting their flowers with an environmentally conscious, upcycled denim collection. The final piece, stitched with flowers, served as both a literal and symbolic tribute to sustainability.
After years of styling and modelling, Tamar Prayer made her collection debut at last year’s SSFP runway. This year, she returned with Red Planet, determined to make an even stronger statement. The Red Sex collection was an upcycled, avant-garde exploration of darkness and feminism that immediately commanded attention.
Closing the runway, Red Planet delivered a powerful finale through bold storytelling and a chic red, black, and white palette. It was a conceptual presentation that challenged norms, asserting women’s autonomy over their bodies, creativity, and expression—whether as designers, stylists, or individuals navigating their own agency.
The merging of fashion and storytelling reached its peak here, earning Tamar Prayer a standing ovation from an audience left in awe. As South African creative Thabang Naledi aptly put it: “The fashion was bomb. It also had some spiritual elements which I highly appreciated and admired.”
In its entirety, Fabrik Party Convention once again proved that when music and fashion meet with intention, community, and storytelling, the result is more than an event—it is a shared cultural experience.
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