Rich Mnisi’s “HIYA KAYA” Celebrates the Rich Cultural Heritage of the Tsonga Women

Celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the VaTsonga Tribe – a Bantu ethnic group native mainly to Southern Mozambique and South Africa, with its SS21 Collection “HIYA KAYA” Rich Mnisi also shines light specifically on her women.

The collection is a call-to-action for the protection of women, especially mothers. According to the brand “This season we celebrate the VaTsonga tribe and shine a light on its rich cultural heritage. Our collection is not only a celebration of the tribe, but specifically her women. The collection is a call-to-action for the protection of women, especially our mothers.”

Shot in Louis Trichardt (Limpopo), Hole In the Wall (Eastern Cape) & Llandudno (Western Cape), Hiya Kiya vivifies timeless celebration of the majestic VaTsonga female form –  her beauty, power, resilience, and fortitude.

“In a timeless celebration of the majestic VaTsonga female form, the Hiya Kaya SS21 collection is truly a testament to her beauty, power, resilience, and fortitude. Her essence has finally been brought to the light, for the world to marvel and draw inspiration. We are honoured to have been entrusted to tell her story through wearable art.”

Hiya Kiya pays homage to the Creative Director, Rich Mnisi’s – heritage and is a heart-felt love letter to the VaTsonga people – a dedication to Rich’s mother and all women.

Tsonga originated from Central Africa, and came to South Africa by way of Mozambique, where they’re believed to have arrived in the late 14th century. They (South African Tsonga) share some history with the Tsonga people of Southern Mozambique.

A beautiful contemporary twist to the traditional colourful gathered skirts called xibelani in one design, the collection in its entirety is ART.

The South African brand alongside Nigerian based label Emmy Kasbit, were selected as the two winners of the 2020 edition of  “Scouting for Africa” – an initiative of Vogue Talents, in collaboration with African Fashion Foundation with the support of the IFFAC.