The Rise of Conistance Shamiso Mpinyuri and Machu...

The Rise of Conistance Shamiso Mpinyuri and Machuma Accessories

Munyaradzi Blessing Doma- Zim Now Writer

At the intersection of fashion, culture, and empowerment stands Conistance Shamiso Mpinyuri, a visionary entrepreneur, commercial model, and founder of Machuma Accessories. Her vibrant brand is fast becoming a staple in Zimbabwe’s local fashion industry, styling celebrities and promoting sustainable fashion deeply rooted in African heritage.

The journey started in her childhood, working alongside her mother, a cross-border trader who sold crocheted crafts between Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Botswana. "That early exposure not only gave me a love for handmade crafts but also taught me lessons in entrepreneurship, quality control, and production," she says.

From Princess to Powerhouse

While pursuing her degree in Communication and English at the Catholic University of Zimbabwe (2015–2018), Mpinyuri was crowned Miss Catholic University 2nd Princess. Inspired by the responsibility to represent her roots, she made a bold move—cutting her hair to reconnect with her identity. “It was a symbol of beginning anew and embracing my culture,” she recalls.

A friend bought her a pair of earrings to complement her new look, sparking an idea. With just $10, she bought her first batch of accessories from Mbare Musika. From there, Machuma Accessories was born. Through self-training, YouTube tutorials, and regional sourcing from Zambia, South Africa, and Tanzania, her vision came to life.

The name Machuma Accessories is deeply personal. "My totem is Gwai Gumbi and my chidawo is Machuma. I just merged my identity with what I do,” she explains. The brand crafts uniquely Zimbabwean accessories—chuma earrings, ruoko bracelets, muhuro necklaces, anklets, and Gumbi and Vambwa bags—alongside the Naniso Collection, a designer clothing line named in tribute to her late grandmother.

In addition to accessories and garments, Machuma offers styling services, working with artists and celebrities like Mary Anibal, Tendex, Danai Clay, Nyasha Murada, Miss Charlotte Muziri, and Taffie Matiure.

Machuma Accessories stands out for its blend of traditional African aesthetics and sustainable practices. “Our mission is to empower artisans, celebrate African beauty, and promote eco-conscious fashion,” says Mpinyuri. The brand uses materials like brass, cowry shells, wood, and bone, all eco-friendly and rich in meaning.

Despite the challenges of sourcing sustainable materials and the pressures of competition, she credits her brand’s survival to consistency and staying true to its mission. "We’ve faced moments where we nearly quit, but the positive feedback and growing demand kept us going."

As Machuma marks its fifth anniversary this August, Mpinyuri is setting her sights higher. “We are working on launching an e-commerce website, expanding into international markets, and rebranding as Machuma Africa,” she reveals.

Plans are also underway for an annual fashion show and a skills empowerment initiative for youth. “Our aim is to pass on traditional crafts to the next generation and build a fashion brand that gives back to the community.”

What keeps her going? “It’s about belonging and representation. I want to honour my grandmother’s legacy and celebrate our Zimbabwean identity through every design,” she says.

Mpinyuri also runs Munakie Digital Consultancy, a marketing firm offering digital services—an extension of her expertise gained from professional certifications in Digital Marketing (2021), Customer Experience (2023), and Graphic Design (2024) from the Marketers Association of Zimbabwe.

“To others in sustainable fashion, stay true to your mission. Work closely with your community, innovate, and don't be afraid to ask for help,” she advises. Quoting a Shona proverb, she adds, “Rume rimwe harikombi churu”—one person cannot do it all. “Collaboration is key.”

Her career has seen memorable highs: Launching the Naniso Collection, collaborating with creatives like Mary Anibal and Fungai Muzoroza, participating in AWE Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (US Embassy) and the So Creative Accelerator (British Council), showcasing at Soke, Fabrik Party, The Art Farm, German Society, and Alliance Francaise pop-ups and representing Zimbabwe at the Intercontinental Youth Connect, speaking on sustainable fashion.

As a commercial model, she’s worked with leading brands including Edgars, Econet, Holiday Inn, and Stanbic Bank, and featured in Jah Prayzah’s “Mibvunzo” music video.

With her hands crafting beauty, her mind shaping a movement, and her heart anchored in her roots, Conistance Shamiso Mpinyuri is not just building a brand—she’s weaving a legacy.