The first ever Hustler’s Market held at creative hub Moto Republik last month, was well attended and was dubbed a success by organisers. This was in spite of heavy rain that drenched the first hour of the event, forcing attendees to squeeze under a tent that covered the vending stalls.

Hustler’s Market is a monthly food and design market featuring locally made ‘fresh n’ funky’ urban wear, arts, crafts and street food. It takes place on the first Saturday of every month from 11am to 2pm. The market is open to the public free of charge.

Aimed at creating a sales platform for the local creative industry, the market featured 25 exhibitors selling their wares, among them: Dee Kaw Zee, acclaimed designer Haus Of Stone, rapper Tehn Diamond with his Tisu Ngoda Dzacho merchandise, ankara print designer Countess K, and Harare Originals, with food from Nourish, Suga Mamas and Burger Boys.

Moto Republik Community Manager Lorraine ‘Loch’ Bgoya said, “The turnout was great and truly encouraging. We had interest from the time we started advertising and calling out to vendors and the public to be a part of it.”

She said every single vendor made a sale. “From some of the feedback I received, a few made more sales in one day than they would have in a month, so that’s great news.” said Bgoya, adding that the success of the market was above and beyond expectations.

Exhibitor and rapper Tehn Diamond said, “This is a very good initiative bearing in mind that big retail shops do not normally take local designs.” He added that opening your own shop is expensive.

Another designer, DJ Raydizz who was selling funky, urban wear said, “Despite the obvious revenue we generate, the market is a great opportunity to link up with other creatives and create synergies.”

Bgoya said, “Our goal is for the market to become one of the city’s attractions where young creatives have a platform to showcase and sell their products and a place where locals and visitors can spend a fun afternoon on the weekend.”

Moto Republik is Harare’s new creative hub which opened up last year. Magamba’s head office is located at the hub, which also hosts workshops and a co-working space for young creatives.

The next Hustler’s Market will be this Saturday, 12 March. “Moto Republik is all about community and the Hustler’s Market is one of the activities we will use to strengthen and bring together our young creative community,” said Bgoya.

If you are interested in taking part in the next Hustler’s Market, please email: [email protected]

Image: Women taking a look at jewellery for sale at the Hustler’s Market.

Image Credit: Joseph Munda