NAKED APE PRESENTS “AFRICA UNITE/D: THE 48 COLLECTION” — A DEFINING MOMENT FOR THE ULTIMATE SPORTING CELEBRATION
by Kgomotso Seboko | Apr 20, 2026 | Fashion |
Johannesburg, 20 April 2026 — In 2026, as global attention turns to football, Naked Ape responds with focus, intent, and cultural strength.
Set to debut at South Africa Fashion Week on 23 April 2026, Africa Unite/d: The 48 Collection is both a design achievement and a cultural marker. The name is deliberate: a tribute to the 48 nations taking part in the tournament, and a recognition of football as one of the world’s most unifying forces. Through this collection, Naked Ape explores themes of identity, presence, and global connection.
The narrative is clear: Africa is central to this moment. For the first time, 10 African nations will compete on football’s biggest stage — a significant shift in representation and influence.
Rather than designing traditional fanwear, Naked Ape reimagines the movement through its signature lens of sustainable luxury, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling — creating an athleisure collection that speaks to identity, fluidity, and unity.
“This collection is personal,” says founder and creative director Shaldon Kopman. “Who we are runs deep — our movement, our aesthetic, our way of being starts from a place the world is only beginning to understand. In a world torn by conflict and war, what we carry is a gift: love, respect, and a depth that can only come from knowing where you’re from.”
The collection builds on the brand’s ethos of buy less, wear more. It explores both athletic movement and refined leisure — garments that are functional and intentional, made from natural, breathable fabrics including bamboo, cotton, linen, and hemp. These pieces move seamlessly from stadium to street and integrate into our daily flow.
The design language is intentional and restrained. Rather than relying on overt symbolism, the collection draws on subtle references to national colours, considered silhouettes, and layered construction to create depth and versatility.
The effect is understated yet impactful—an approach that prioritises longevity over trend and meaning over spectacle.
This is a collection that does more than respond to global conversations—it contributes to them. Naked Ape does not simply follow what is current; it brings its own perspective, helping to shape how these moments are expressed through fashion.
Africa Unite/d: The 48 Collection extends the brand’s ongoing Africa Unite narrative — a story of connection, shared identity, and education. It invites a reimagining of what African fashion means: a continent of depth, diversity, and creative leadership.
In a moment when sustainability, cultural authenticity, and global equity are reshaping fashion, Naked Ape offers a grounded, forward-thinking perspective. This is purposeful – accessible, human, and rooted.
For more information and updates on the Africa Unite/d: The 48 Collection, please visit www.nakedapeofficial.com.
Johannesburg, South Africa – March 27, 2026 – South African music powerhouse DJ Zinhle shakes up the music scene once again with the release of her highly anticipated new single, “Ezothando,” available today across all digital platforms.
A groundbreaking collaboration, Ezothando brings together a dynamic lineup of seven artists: Cebo, Mmata Magic, C Phe SA, Msindo Listo, Thobani White, and Nayvee Womculo, alongside DJ Zinhle herself. The track marks a powerful fusion of established and emerging talent, reflecting the ever-evolving sound of South African music.
At the heart of this release is an innovative and inclusive approach to music discovery. DJ Zinhle masterminded the rollout of Ezothando through a social media open verse challenge, which attracted over 2,000 entries from aspiring artists across the country. From this overwhelming response, two standout voices – Nayvee and Thobani White – earned their place on the official track, turning a viral moment into a life-changing opportunity.
This initiative is a true reflection of DJ Zinhle’s long-standing commitment to uplifting new talent. Throughout her career, she has consistently used her platform to open doors for undiscovered artists, and Ezothando stands as one of her most impactful efforts yet – not only discovering new voices but placing them on a major commercial release.
Sonically, Ezothando signals an exciting evolution in DJ Zinhle’s musical direction. The track is rooted in high-energy dance music, blending infectious rhythms, powerful vocals, and club-ready production to create a sound that is both distinctly South African and globally accessible. With Ezothando, DJ Zinhle once again proves why she remains at the forefront of the industry – not just as an artist, but as a visionary shaping the future of African music.
About DJ Zinhle
DJ Zinhle is a South African DJ, producer, businesswoman, and media personality with over two decades of influence in the music industry. Recognized as Africa’s number one female DJ from 2019 to 2025, she has built a global presence with performances across Africa, Europe, the UK, and the USA.
Known for hit records such as “Umlilo,” “Indlovu,” and “My Name Is,” she continues to shape the sound of contemporary African dance music. Beyond music, she is the founder of Era by DJ Zinhle, CEO of Boulevard Nectar Rosé, and the creator of Hair Majesty, reflecting her strong footprint in business.
A published author and star of the BET Africa reality show “The Unexpected,” DJ Zinhle remains a leading voice in entertainment and culture, inspiring a new generation through her work, influence, and belief that women can have it all.
Management & Bookings:
bookings@djzinhle.com
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