WATCH: MaXhosa, Robot Boii's skhothane stunt at Paris Fashion Week goes viral

MaXhosa’s SiyiKulture showcase at this year’s Paris Fashion Week was a celebration of South African culture, featuring a medley of traditional dances, music, and fashion.

In a viral moment, the homegrown custard brand UltraMel made a splash on the runway when models, including South African dancer Mzwakhe Mbuli Jr, also known as Robot Boii, paid homage to skhothane culture. 

Mbuli said the vision was to unapologetically showcase the richness of South African heritage, unafraid to be bold and authentic.

“It was a showcase of fashion and dance, and in dance there were multiple genres… I can’t showcase pantsula culture without ipoti. I can’t do gumboot without actual gumboots, so we can’t half-do something, whether we are in South Africa or in Paris.

“If we're saying ‘siyikulture’, we have to be the culture. We can't water it down or dumb down what we are.”

Mbuli explained that while attendees were initially perplexed by the unconventional display, they delved deeper and began to appreciate the unique cultural nuances and energy.

He emphasises the importance of staying true to one’s roots, even in unfamiliar environments, and not watering down cultural identity.

“It’s us being… We're the only African brand that's showcasing in Paris Fashion Week. This SiyiKulture is for South Africa; it’s for us.”  

To listen to Mbuli in conversation with 947’s Drive with Thando, use the audio player below: