THE CREATIVE VISION GUIDED BY FAITH AND FASHION

2pana

20 October 2025  Mondays Mag Publications

Faith, Fashion, and Finding His Path Through Creativity

In a world where originality is often overshadowed by trends, few creatives stand out for their authenticity and divine sense of purpose. One of them is Maredi Thupana, better known on social media as 2pana_ — a name born from his surname, Thupana, meaning a thin stick used to whip. “It might historically suggest a connection to someone known for their strength,” he explains. The ‘2’ in his handle came from a family twist. “I got the idea from my brother who had similarly played around with the number two in his username.”

This seemingly simple alias now represents a powerful creative identity that merges spirituality, streetwear, and storytelling. “As a creative director, I see ideas that ordinary people don’t see, and I bring them to life because what I have is a gift,” 2pana_ says. “It’s okay to be inspired, but be yourself.”

A Thrift Store with Soul

Thupana’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his project, Thrift By Rotis. What started as a small resale venture soon became an extension of his creative world. “The thrift store was made to create a bit of profit by selling some of my old clothes and clothes that I thrift or people donate to me,” he shares. “It fits with my creative vision as I’m someone who is versatile — I don’t just model.” The initiative embodies his philosophy of accessibility and sustainability, turning everyday fashion into a statement of resourcefulness and self-expression.

A Calling from God and the Streets of Jozi

2pana_ credits his passion for fashion not to fleeting trends but to divine inspiration. “My passion for fashion was a vision instilled from God,” he reflects. “I haven’t enjoyed many things in my life as much as I enjoy putting on an outfit for myself and nobody else but myself.” Encouragement from friends, family, and even strangers affirmed his path. “That right there is a sign from God through people that I just need to trust His works and the path He has set out for me.”

Turning Vision into Visuals

For Thupana, creative direction is not just a job it’s a calling. “I get ideas in my sleep, from looking at a background, a style of clothing, and mostly the personality of an individual,” he explains. “Then I glue all those factors together to create art.”

Behind every concept lies a deep respect for collaboration. “A model can’t be a model without a photographer, and a photographer can’t be a photographer without a model. Everyone is equally important.” He’s also intentional about sharing the process. “Behind-the-scenes content is important because people need to understand that an individual doesn’t just wake up and shoot,” he says. “There’s a lot that contributes to that shoot even storage to shoot that BTS content, we all know the struggle.”

The Power of Authenticity

“I try to be as authentic and different as possible,” Thupana says of his styling and directing. “Following a trend isn’t style or creative. Always aim to be different yet authentic.” That ethos was on full display in one of his most powerful collaborations — a GBV awareness shoot with Kiddy_kid and Kunene Chronicles.

“It was already a powerful statement made in the streets of Braam,” he recalls. “It pushed me creatively as I saw how I should utilise my gift.” Streetwear remains his favorite medium: “It’s relatable, and you are free to be yourself in the streets of Jozi.”

Work by: @2pana_ @kunenekhronicles @kiddykid_sa Photography by: @kiddykid_sa

Styling by: @2pana_ Hair by: @tank.de.haircolorist Creative direction by: @kiddykid_sa @kunenekhronicles @2pana_

Model: @2pana_

Faith, Mood, and Meaning

Whether it’s a campaign or content piece, 2pana_ operates with deep intention. “Music creates a mood for everyone,” he says. “I play calm music or something that gets you moving it depends on the mood.” Faith guides his every step. “My gift does not come from the air. The ideas that we one day wake up and have aren’t magically instilled — they’re all from God,” he insists. “If you don’t express your ideas, God will simply give another individual that idea, and they will prosper because they had faith.”

Rethinking Success and Self-Worth

In an era of likes and followers, Thupana takes a grounded view of success. “You can have 10k+ followers, but if your engagement is poor, you need to get more creative,” he says. “Grant yourself grace. Imagine 100 people standing next to you in real life telling you they like your work it’s a lot. Enjoy what you do so you can be successful.” He applies this patience to challenges, too. “One of my most difficult shoots was near a fire where I wore a suit with two ties. I was unsure about posting the pictures because I’m a perfectionist, but God always pulls through that post inspired people.”

Vision Beyond the Lens

Looking ahead, 2pana envisions growth rooted in purpose. “In three years, I would love to see myself where God wants me,” he says. “The most important thing is to be a better version of your past self.” As he continues shaping the creative landscape, one thing remains constant his mission to express faith through fashion. “Fashion is how we express ourselves,” he concludes, “but people don’t always seek a deeper understanding of what’s being expressed. The concepts we create have stories behind them you just have to look closer.”

CRDT.

Mondays Magazine Publications

Issue Presented 2pana

Story By Mondays Magazine Publications / Edited by Tshepo

Designed by The Mondays Studio & Kvn

Published on the 20/10/2025