Fresh Faces, Fierce Walks: Male Models Who Stole the Spotlight at MTCWFW24

The 9th edition of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week once again affirmed its place as Namibia’s premier fashion event, bringing together the country’s most innovative designers and dynamic models. This year, the spotlight wasn’t only on the jaw-dropping collections but also on the emergence of fresh faces who commanded the runway with confidence and style. Among the standout new talents were Jason Dietlik, Kasius Makanga, Fortune Lumana, Marco Coetzee, and Roberto Nkololo—each bringing their unique flair and energy to the biggest stage in Namibian fashion.

For these first-time models, stepping onto the runway at Fashion Week was a dream come true but also a challenge that demanded perseverance, preparation, and self-belief. Their stories reveal the grit and passion it takes to succeed in an intense and fast-paced industry, inspiring many who aspire to follow in their footsteps. From Jason’s calm composure to Kasius’s bold individuality, Fortune’s effortless charm, Marco’s refined confidence, and Roberto’s magnetic stage presence, these new faces proved that the future of Namibian fashion is in capable hands.

Jason Dietlik: A Dream Realized at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week 

Jason Dietlik (Zuriel by Luis Munana)

For Jason Dietlik, the MTC Windhoek Fashion Week marked a defining moment in his journey to becoming a professional model. Stepping onto the runway for the first time, Jason describes his initial reaction as one of disbelief and immense gratitude. “It’s been a dream of mine to be a runway fashion model,” he shares, reflecting on the opportunity to showcase his talent. 

The Journey to the Runway 

Jason’s entry into the world of modeling began in 2017 as an influencer. Collaborating with notable brands like FashionNova, Boohooman, and Shein, he discovered a passion for fashion that grew stronger over time. “This year, I decided to give MTC Fashion Week a try for more exposure and to pursue my ultimate goal of being scouted by an international booker.” 

The First Steps

Right before his debut, Jason recalls the mix of excitement and nerves. “When Emily called ‘Next model on,’ I knew it was time to shine,” he says. Although his first few steps were nerve-wracking, Jason quickly found his rhythm, aligning his walk with the music and the outfit he wore. 

(Sirenga)                                                                          (House of St Luke)

Moments That Mattered

For Jason, the most exciting part of the experience was the realization that he was living his dream. “The moment sets in—you’re really doing this. There’s no going back, just facing your fate and making it down that runway.” 

Learning From the Best 

Guidance from experienced models proved invaluable. “I pulled my friend Mbongeni aside to help me with posture and how to relax while walking. His advice made all the difference,” Jason notes. Preparation also played a key role, with Jason incorporating rest, stretches, and mindfulness exercises to stay physically and mentally ready. 

Fashion and Challenges 

Wearing bold, unique designs was a highlight for Jason. He particularly admired Sirenga by Leone Wayne Hilson, whose oversized puffer jackets and cargo pants aligned perfectly with his personal style. Despite challenges like staying on beat, Jason leaned on his peers and the guidance of the team to perfect his walk. 

Ronell

A New Perspective 

“MTC Windhoek Fashion Week was a solid confirmation for me—this is the path I want to pursue,” Jason says. The experience has solidified his aspiration to become a full-time professional model. Next, he plans to build his portfolio and connect with international modeling agencies to take his career to the next level. 

Advice for Aspiring Models 

Jason encourages others to take the leap, especially through platforms like MTC Windhoek Fashion Week. “Emily and the team will train you on everything you need to know. Believe in yourself, embrace daring designs, and trust the process.” 

Jason’s debut at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week not only marked the start of his modeling career but also inspired him to dream bigger. His journey exemplifies the power of persistence, preparation, and passion in achieving one’s goals. 

Kasius Makanga: From Dream to Reality at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week

Kasius Makanga (Zuriel by Luis Munana)

For Kasius Makanga, stepping onto the runway at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week was more than a debut—it was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. “My very first reaction was total disbelief,” Kasius recalls. “I was drenched in gratitude that the MTC Windhoek Fashion Week crew saw something in me. It’s been my absolute dream to be a runway fashion model, and finally, it came true.”

The Path to the Runway

Kasius began his journey into the fashion world in 2017 as an influencer, working with prominent local and international brands like FashionNova, Boohooman, and Shein. Through creating high-quality content, his passion for fashion grew. “I became obsessed with fashion,” Kasius explains. “This year, I decided to take it further and give MTC Windhoek Fashion Week a shot. My goal was to gain exposure, get scouted, and become a full-time model.” 

Stepping Into the Spotlight

The moment before stepping onto the runway was a mix of anticipation and nerves. Kasius describes the experience: “When Emily called ‘Next model on’ during rehearsals, I knew it was my time to shine. It was nerve-wracking at first, like a toddler learning to walk. But as I got into the rhythm of the music, everything clicked, and I just embraced the moment.” 

Highlights of the Experience

For Kasius, the most exciting part was the reality of living his dream. “It was the moment you realize there’s no turning back—you just have to face it. That sense of accomplishment and the energy of the runway will stay with me forever.” 

MN Creations                                                                           Hustle_Fit

Learning From Mentors

As a first-time model, Kasius leaned on the guidance of seasoned professionals. His friend Mbongeni, a model signed with Boss Models in South Africa, provided invaluable advice. “He taught me about posture, staying relaxed, and not crossing my legs while walking. That advice was crucial and helped me feel more confident.” 

Preparation and Personal Style

Kasius prepared both mentally and physically for the fast-paced environment of Fashion Week. “I made sure to get enough rest, stretch, and do light workouts to stay energized. Mentally, I reminded myself why I was there and what I wanted to achieve.” 

Embracing unique designs was another highlight for Kasius, with one outfit standing out in particular. “The Sirenga ensemble by Leone Wayne Hilson was my favorite. The oversized puffer jacket and cargo pants reflected my personal style and made me feel completely in my element.”

Botocy (Botswana)

Challenges and Growth

Even with rehearsals, Kasius faced challenges like walking at the right pace. “Sometimes I walked too fast or offbeat, but thanks to the support of other models and Emily, I managed to adjust and get it right.” 

The experience not only boosted his confidence but also solidified his aspirations. “MTC Windhoek Fashion Week confirmed for me that modeling is the path I want to pursue for the rest of my life.”

Looking Ahead

Kasius’s next steps include building a professional portfolio and connecting with international modeling agencies. “I want to network, collaborate with designers, and get signed by a booker abroad. This is just the beginning.” 

Stevie

Advice for Aspiring Models

For those dreaming of the runway, Kasius offers this advice: “MTC Windhoek Fashion Week is the perfect starting point. The team will train and guide you, preparing you for the industry. Most importantly, believe in yourself, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace the experience.” 

Kasius Makanga’s journey from influencer to runway model showcases the power of persistence, passion, and belief in oneself. With this debut under his belt, he’s ready to take the fashion world by storm. 

Fortune Lumana: Stepping Into the Spotlight at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week

 Fortune Lumana 

For Fortune Lumana, walking the runway at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week was a moment filled with mixed emotions. “I was quite relaxed until it was my time to walk. That’s when the nerves kicked in,” he admits. “It was a mix of excitement and nervousness, but I embraced it.” 

A Love for Fashion

Fortune’s journey into modeling was inspired by his passion for style. “I’ve always loved clothes and looking good in them,” he shares. “Knowing that I would be dressed by different designers was enough motivation to join Fashion Week. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.” 

Duke - Clothe Your Soul (South Africa)                                                         Olep (Botswana)

The Runway Experience

Taking to the runway for the first time was both thrilling and nerve-wracking. “It was exciting, but I reminded myself of everything I practiced—what to do and what not to do,” he says. Confidence, he learned, was key. “Walking the runway is about confidently showcasing how great you look in the design. Hearing compliments from the audience as I walked past them was a highlight.” 

Learning to Let Go

As a first-time model, Fortune received some advice that stayed with him: “Don’t look too serious; just let loose.” This tip helped him relax and fully enjoy the experience. 

Preparing for the Moment

Preparation was crucial for Fortune, both physically and mentally. “I worked out to maintain my physique and made sure to get enough sleep to stay focused,” he says. 

Botocy (Botswana)                                                          Nkanda Yatu (Zambia)

The Thrill of Wearing Unique Designs

Fashion Week brought a new level of excitement for Fortune, as he got to wear designs that were completely new to him. “There were some really unique pieces. It felt great because it was my first time wearing such designs, and I was thrilled to see how good they looked on me,” he shares. 

Navigating Challenges

Despite the excitement, there were challenges along the way. “Some pieces didn’t fit perfectly—some were slightly too small or big. But the designers were amazing and always found a way to make it work,” he says, praising their creativity and problem-solving skills. 

Sirenga

A New Appreciation for Designers

Walking the runway gave Fortune a deeper appreciation for the world of fashion. “It made me realize how many gifted designers are out there,” he says. “It has inspired me to put myself out there and work with more designers in the future.” 

Favorite Moments and Designers

When it comes to his favorite designers, Fortune speaks highly of Sirenga and Zuriel by Luis Munana. “Luis Munana’s collection was incredible, and he had such a supportive and positive energy. It really stood out to me,” he says. 

Looking Ahead

Fortune’s experience at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week has ignited a drive to grow his presence in the fashion industry. “Social media is a great platform for anything related to design and fashion,” he says. “I aim to grow my platform and collaborate with more designers in the future.” 

Zuriel By Luis Munana                                                                      Stevie 

Advice for Aspiring Models

To anyone dreaming of walking the runway, Fortune offers simple but powerful advice: “The fear of failure should not limit you from doing what you love. Come and give it a shot.” 

Fortune Lumana’s debut at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey in fashion. His confidence, passion, and drive make him one to watch as he continues to pursue his dreams.

Marco Coetzee’s Bold Step into the World of Fashion

Marco Coetzee (Olep)

Making a splash at this year’s MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, Marco Coetzee proved that with determination and passion, dreams can come true. The emerging model’s debut on the runway was not just a personal milestone but a moment of inspiration for others aspiring to make their mark in the fashion world.

A Dream Turned Reality

“When I found out I’d be walking the runway, I was absolutely thrilled,” Marco shared. “It felt surreal, almost like a dream come true. I was filled with a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation.” Having harbored this ambition for years, it was a leap of faith and confidence that finally brought Marco to the stage in 2024.

The Journey into Modeling

Marco’s path to the runway began as a brand ambassador for Avani Hotel Group in Namibia. It wasn’t long before friends, recognizing his natural flair for style and presence, encouraged him to pursue modeling seriously. “They were my greatest motivators,” he revealed. Through hard work, attending castings, and building a portfolio, Marco eventually secured his spot at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week.

Ronell

The Nerves and the Spotlight

Marco recalls the moments before stepping onto the runway for the first time. “My heart was racing. I took a deep breath and reminded myself of all the preparation that led to this moment.” Despite the nerves, he focused on his training and walked with the confidence of a seasoned model. “Hearing the applause and feeling the energy of the crowd was exhilarating,” he said. A highlight of the night? “Wearing a show-stopping look that got an amazing reaction—it was a confidence boost like no other.”

Advice from the Pros

As a first-time model, Marco valued the guidance he received from experienced colleagues. “They told me to stay true to myself, keep my head high, and enjoy the moment. The best advice was to not overthink it—just walk with confidence and make the moment my own.”

Preparing for the Big Day

Runway modeling demands both mental and physical preparation. Marco trained rigorously, honing his walk, poses, and expressions. “Mentally, I focused on mindfulness and visualization to stay calm. Physically, I ensured I was well-rested, hydrated, and maintained a balanced diet.” These efforts paid off as Marco stepped onto the runway ready to showcase his best self.

Daring Designs and Standout Moments

Fashion Week is known for its bold and avant-garde designs, and Marco embraced the challenge. “Each outfit felt like stepping into a different persona,” he shared. A standout was an avant-garde look by South African designer House of St Luke. “It pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me feel incredibly powerful.”

Big Daddy

Overcoming Challenges

Balancing work, fittings, and rehearsals was one of the biggest challenges Marco faced. “It was intense, but having a supportive team and staying calm made all the difference,” he said. Teamwork proved essential in overcoming hurdles and ensuring a seamless debut.

A New Perspective on Modeling

Reflecting on his Fashion Week experience, Marco shared how it transformed his view of the industry. “It showed me the importance of resilience and adaptability. It’s inspired me to aim higher and explore more opportunities, both locally and internationally.”

Lessons Learned

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to believe in myself and my capabilities,” Marco stated. “Confidence truly makes a difference, and embracing every experience with an open mind leads to growth.”

A Nod to Designers and Fellow Models

Marco expressed gratitude for the talented designers and models he collaborated with during Fashion Week. Highlights included Ronel’s intricate designs, Botswana’s Olep Clothing for its edgy streetwear, and avant-garde collections by House of St Luke and Duke—Cloth Your Soul. “The looks from Dunns and Big Daddy made me feel at home, as they reflected my personal style.”

Duke - Clothe Your Soul                                                                        House of St Luke

What’s Next?

Marco’s journey is only beginning. “I hope to continue building my career by working with more esteemed designers and venturing into international markets. My next goal is to gain more exposure and hopefully land a campaign with a major fashion brand.”

Words of Advice

To aspiring models, Marco offers encouragement: “Stay dedicated and patient. Building a modeling career takes time and effort, but staying authentic and confident will set you apart. Network, attend castings, and never stop learning and improving.”

With his sights set on the future, Marco Coetzee is poised to become a name to watch in the modeling industry. His story is a testament to the power of determination and embracing one’s unique qualities on the path to success.

Roberto Nkololo: A Rising Star at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week

Robert Nkololo (House of St Luke)

 Making his debut at the 9th edition of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, Roberto Meya Nkololo proved that dreams, determination, and divine faith can lead to incredible opportunities. From nervously walking casting calls to confidently commanding the runway, Roberto’s journey is a testament to persistence and growth in Namibia’s burgeoning fashion scene.

“When I found out I’d be walking at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, I literally jumped in excitement and told my family, ‘Your brother/son is going to be a star!’” Roberto recalls, his excitement still palpable. This milestone was the culmination of a journey that began with an unexpected push—a friend convincing him to join a casting call in 2023. “She didn’t want to go alone, so I decided to give it a try too,” he shares. What followed were weeks of preparation, networking, and small but significant successes, including participating in Katutura Fashion Week and the Zuriel show. These experiences built the foundation for his eventual leap onto Namibia’s biggest fashion stage. 

Sirenga

Conquering Challenges and Finding His Moment

For Roberto, the backstage moments before his first walk at Fashion Week were surreal. “That’s when it got real. I was nervous, but I reminded myself of all the rehearsals, said a prayer, and asked God to guide me,” he says. Though his first walk didn’t go as smoothly as he had hoped, Roberto kept his composure and delivered a performance that captured the audience’s attention. “My favorite part was hearing the audience’s reactions, seeing the cameras flash, and catching my walk on the big screens,” he beams.

The advice he received from fellow models and mentors was invaluable: “They taught me to embody the garment, walk confidently, and stay true to myself.” Roberto embraced every learning opportunity, asking questions and listening intently. Physically, he stayed fit through cardio and muscle-toning exercises, while mentally, he turned to prayer to relieve stress and bolster his confidence.

Fashion, Faith, and Favorites

Roberto found himself inspired by the artistry of the designers whose creations he brought to life. “Every piece had a story, but I resonated most with Sirenga’s Christian message,” he reflects. House of St. Luke’s tribute to his late mother and K. Moraba’s regal designs also left a lasting impression. “Andila Andila’s creativity made me feel like a rockstar,” he adds with admiration. 

Roberto also drew motivation from his fellow models, praising their professionalism and stage presence. “Albert killed all his looks, Mbonge showed his experience with every outfit, and Joanna Swartbooi made every piece her own,” he says.

Big Daddy

Looking Ahead

Roberto’s experience at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week has shifted his perspective and aspirations. “I had no goals going into it, but now I feel like anything is possible. I hope to take modeling seriously and aim for bigger stages—hopefully international ones,” he says. 

For aspiring models, his advice is simple but profound: “Don’t stop. Be as creative as you want, and trust that your journey might not look like what you expect, but it will lead you to your dreams.” With his growing confidence and determination, Roberto Meya Nkololo is poised to make an even greater impact in the world of fashion, and his star is only beginning to rise.

A Rising Generation of Namibian Fashion Stars

The 9th edition of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week was a celebration of innovation, artistry, and new beginnings. It wasn’t just about the dazzling designs; it was about the personalities who brought them to life on the runway. Jason Dietlik, Kasius Makanga, Fortune Lumana, Marco Coetzee, and Roberto Nkololo made unforgettable debuts, each leaving an indelible mark on Namibia’s biggest fashion stage.

As the runway lights dim and the applause echoes into the future, it’s clear that these new talents have only just begun their journey. With their remarkable debuts at MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, they’ve shown that they have what it takes to shine on any stage, anywhere in the world. The Namibian fashion industry is evolving, and this new generation of models is ready to lead it forward with style, determination, and unshakable confidence. With talents like Jason, Kasius, Fortune, Marco, and Roberto taking center stage, the world is watching—and they are ready to deliver.