World Safari Day 2025 – First-of-Its-Kind Safari Fashion Shoot Brings African Bush Camps and Zimbabwean Creatives Together

This World Safari Day, 25 November, Hwange National Park was transformed into a stage for Zimbabwean creativity as African Bush Camps teamed up with leading Zimbabwean artists for a groundbreaking fashion photoshoot. The result? An extraordinary celebration of what emerges when safari, fashion, and culture collide.

“What does it mean to be Zimbabwean? It means a lot. It means I can be who I want to be and share with others the pride and love we have for this country. Something like this has never been done before, and everyone’s excitement made it even more special.” – Brenda, Waitress, Somalisa Camp

The Art of Safari: Fashion, Culture, and Creativity in Zimbabwe

Award-winning designer Victoria Manase created 17 couture garments inspired by traditional Zimbabwean patterns, textures, and styles, blending heritage with contemporary design. She was joined at Somalisa Camp by tailor Lazarus Maudia, photographer Brandon Tsandukwa, and makeup artist Gamu Manyika, transforming the camp into a hub of creativity and collaboration.

Couture gowns and tailored dress pants swept the savanna as models balanced on towering termite mounds, reclined on dusty safari vehicles, and stood poised beneath the spindly canopies of acacia trees. Tulle and chiffon caught the warm wind, their bold colors glowing against the golden grasses and ochre earth. Guided through Hwange National Park, each stop usually reserved for sundowners and wildlife spotting became a stage for a fashion shoot, with elephants pausing at waterholes as silent spectators. Couture gowns juxtaposed against trucks and rifles, while the iconic landscapes and wandering wildlife framed each shot with unmistakable Zimbabwean majesty.

From 14 to 16 October, 17 African Bush Camps staff – including guides, chefs, hosts, waitresses, and maintenance staff – stepped forward as models. Prior to the photoshoot, Manase spent months getting to know each participant, taking measurements and learning their stories, so each garment reflected their individuality. Set against Hwange’s iconic landscapes, the shoot became a celebration of personal pride, empowerment, and Zimbabwean heritage.

“It was amazing to feel like a woman again, to step out of the uniform and embrace my femininity. In this setting, people could see me beyond my role at work; they see me as human. My outfit speaks of royalty, strength, and beauty.” – Ivy, Camp Manager, Somalisa Camp

As the final frames were captured on the last day, designer Manase revealed a special gift: each staff member got to keep their bespoke garment. It was an emotional tribute to the joy and courage that each person poured into the project.

Beyond the Photoshoot: Identity and Empowerment

The photoshoot was a first for many African Bush Camps staff: their first time in front of the camera, their first time wearing couture, their first professional makeup experience. Yet beyond the novelty, it was a profound act of self-expression and a celebration of Zimbabwean identity.

Among the models were graduates of African Bush Camps Foundation’s Women in Tourism Program, which supports women from underserved communities with the tools to succeed in hospitality.

This World Safari Day, African Bush Camps put Zimbabwe’s people, stories, and creativity at the forefront, showing that conserving Zimbabwe means conserving its culture just as fiercely as its wildlife. A leader in Zimbabwe, the company is known for their holistic approach to cultural and community initiatives.

“This project showcased the talent and creativity of Zimbabwe in a way that truly empowered our team. It was inspiring to watch our colleagues engage with the process, share their stories, and celebrate their culture.” – Beks Ndlovu, Founder and CEO of African Bush Camps.