Monika Amunyela

Filemon Hamukoto, a young and emerging fashion designer, is gaining recognition with his streetwear brand, Gemini.Drip. 

Based in Windhoek, the 28-year-old uses fashion as a medium to tell stories and explore identity, incorporating bold designs and recycled materials, transforming trash into treasure.

Growing up in Okongo in the Ohangwena region, Hamukoto felt that his clothes did not reflect who he was. 

This frustration ignited his creativity, motivating him to develop his own style and express himself unapologetically. After teaching himself the basics and earning a diploma from the College of the Arts (COTA), he continues to innovate.

The brand name Gemini.Drip was inspired by his star sign, Gemini, symbolising contrast and change, mirroring his creative duality. “My designs are bold, baggy, raw and imperfect. I often use old denim and leather to craft something new. Each piece aims to feel authentic and comfortable, never overly polished, but rather human,” he said.

Hamukoto draws inspiration from both local and international designers, such as Luis Munana (Zuriel), Sirenga and Louis Vuitton, as well as from Pinterest.

He mixes various ideas to create his unique style. He also finds influence in human experiences, emotions and unseen forces shaping our lives. 

“Being Namibian and rooted in the Oshiwambo culture has taught me valuable lessons about meaningful creation,” he said.

Gemini.Drip has been showcased at events like COTA Fashion Week, Katutura Fashion Week and the AE Gams Festival. 

Notable musicians such as Sunny Boy, ML Musik, Snazzy and Xallamo have worn his designs for different occasions.

Despite limited resources for fashion in Namibia, Hamukoto remains unshaken. He said every complete piece and collaboration feels like a success.

“My dream is to take Gemini.Drip to the global stage. I aspire to present my work in Paris, Tokyo and New York, and eventually be featured in magazines like Vogue,” he noted.

-monikaamunyela2@gmail.com