Dinapama's debut into fashion

Yanna Smith
The buzz around Windhoek was that nine years into its existence, Dinapama was making her new debut and this was an event not be missed.

As one approached the venue, this very rare and open-door extravaganza had an ark decorated with fresh flowers on the stage and a boldly stated banner 'Dinapama'. This first-ever live-streamed fashion show for Dinapama was organised by Maltas Club Namibia, with the support of Ndina Kapuka from Dinapama.

The host for the evening was Geneous Mutsira, a second-year Unam BSc Information Systems student. The purpose of the fashion show was threefold: To thank the Dinapama employees for the hard work they are doing for the company. Second, it was a time for a critical reflection of how far the company has come over the past nine years. For Dinapama, it is never about the opportunity of a lifetime, but the lifetime of each opportunity granted.

Finally, this show was a springboard for the upcoming 10th anniversary celebrations of Dinapama in September 2019. The models from this event were students from Unam, IUM and Nust. In attendance were close to 100 guests including students and professionals from the fashion and business industry. Selma Namalenga narrated the history of Dinapama… how humble beginnings lead to this notable small and medium enterprise. The keynote speaker Morgan Mwinge encouraged the audience to support Namibian local companies.

Close to 20 models, both male and female, wore tasteful garments designed and manufactured by Dinapama, Melanin Collections and the Maltas Newspaper Collection. Most of the designs from Dinapama ranged from corporate wear, school uniforms to protective gear, to name a few. Melanin Collections were inspired by the role that women can play in Namibian business, while the Maltas collection drew its inspiration from the sophisticated African goddess in today's globalised economy.

When one speaks analytically on this fashion show, the first thing which comes to mind is the availability and the costing of all garments. Fashion show spectators usually want to know the price tag attached to a product, so this event had the amazing arrangement of a live screen which kept on reeling each and every price of the garment and if it is available for immediate purchase or on request from the designers. This was a very delightful fashion show and the audience had an enjoyable evening.

STAFF REPORTER