Saturday 16th of May 2026

Nairobi, Kenya

Tag: fashion influencers

Interview with Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina’s Alleged Father Sparks Controversy in Miss South Africa Contest

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

An interview with a man claiming to be the father of Miss South Africa contestant Vanessa Chidimma Adetshina has brought new revelations about her background, intensifying the scrutiny and backlash she faces from the South African public.

The interview, which has surfaced amidst ongoing controversy, features a man who asserts he is Vanessa’s Nigerian father. In his statements, he provides a detailed account of the family’s history and their journey to South Africa, aiming to clarify their background but inadvertently causing more suspicion among the public.

The Family’s History and Migration to South Africa

According to the man, he traveled to South Africa in 2010 for the FIFA World Cup on a visitor’s visa. During this period, he attended the games with Vanessa’s mother, whom he refers to as Chichi’s mother. He claims that at the time of their visit, they did not have any children.

When questioned about the nationality of his children, he emphasized that they hold dual citizenship: “It’s called dual citizenship, they’re both. They are Nigerian kids that have every single right that you have as a South African.”

Public Reaction and Growing Suspicion

The interview has not quelled the suspicions of the South African public. Instead, it has led to further questions and criticism regarding Vanessa’s eligibility and background. Netizens are particularly focused on the timeline provided by her alleged father, scrutinizing the dates and circumstances of his arrival in South Africa and questioning whether Vanessa was indeed born in the country.

Many are now debating the validity of her South African citizenship and her right to compete in the Miss South Africa pageant. This controversy has not only impacted Vanessa’s reputation but also cast a shadow over the integrity of the competition itself.

The Impact on Vanessa Chidimma Adetshina

The ongoing backlash has made the situation increasingly difficult for Vanessa. As she continues to face criticism and doubts from the public, the revelations from the interview have only exacerbated her plight. What was intended to provide clarity has instead fueled further controversy, leaving Vanessa and her family in a challenging position.

The interview with Vanessa Chidimma Adetshina’s alleged father has opened up more questions than it answered, leading to heightened scrutiny and suspicion from the South African public. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will affect Vanessa’s participation in the Miss South Africa pageant and her future endeavors.

Content courtesy of NFH Digital Team

Uproar Over Miss South Africa Contestant Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina’s Celebration with Nigerian Family

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Xenophobia Flares Up: Miss South Africa Contestant Faces Backlash Over Nigerian Heritage
The Miss South Africa pageant has been thrust into the spotlight amidst a raging controversy surrounding one of its contestants, Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina. The 23-year-old law student and model, born and raised in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican/South African mother, has found herself at the center of a xenophobic storm.

A video capturing Chidimma’s joyous celebration with her Nigerian family following her advancement in the pageant has ignited a firestorm of criticism and threats. The footage, which depicts the young woman surrounded by her loved ones, has become a catalyst for a wave of xenophobic attacks directed at her.

Social media platforms have been inundated with hateful comments targeting Chidimma, questioning her eligibility to represent South Africa due to her Nigerian heritage. Some individuals have gone as far as demanding her immediate withdrawal from the pageant, while others have issued menacing threats.

The controversy has laid bare the deep-seated prejudices and intolerance that continue to plague South African society. Despite being born and raised in the country, Chidimma’s African heritage has been deemed incompatible with her representation of the nation. The attacks on her character and her right to participate in the pageant are a stark reminder of the challenges faced by immigrants and individuals of mixed heritage in South Africa.

Chidimma, however, has shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. Instead of being cowed by the hateful rhetoric, she has chosen to stand her ground and continue her journey in the pageant. Her determination to overcome the challenges thrown her way is an inspiration to many who have been victims of discrimination.

The Miss South Africa organization has found itself in a precarious position. On the one hand, it must condemn the xenophobic attacks directed at Chidimma and support her right to participate in the pageant. On the other hand, it must also address the concerns of those who feel that the pageant should be reserved for South African-born citizens.

This incident has sparked a much-needed conversation about xenophobia, identity, and belonging in South Africa. It is a stark reminder that the country still has a long way to go in achieving a truly inclusive and tolerant society. As the controversy continues to unfold, it is imperative that the pageant organizers, the government, and civil society come together to address the underlying issues and promote unity and understanding.

Chidimma’s story is a powerful testament to the human spirit and the ability to overcome adversity. It is a call to action for South Africa to confront its demons and build a future where everyone feels welcomed and accepted, regardless of their background.

Content courtesy of NFH Digital Team

The Designers Behind the 2024 Olympic Uniforms: A Showcase of Cultural Pride and Innovation

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

As the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris approach, Team Mongolia has already captivated global attention not for their athletic prowess, but for their remarkable Opening Ceremony uniforms. The internet has been abuzz with admiration for Mongolia’s attire, which has been hailed as a standout among the various teams.

Images of the uniforms, released online last week, quickly went viral. The Mongolian athletes will don crisp shirts and vests, paired with trousers or pleated skirts, while the flag bearers will wear tunics inspired by the traditional Mongolian garment, the deel. The most eye-catching feature of these uniforms is the intricate gold embroidery, which incorporates motifs celebrating Mongolia’s rich cultural heritage and its participation in the Olympic Games.

These stunning uniforms are the creation of Michel & Amazonka, a fashion label based in Ulaanbaatar and run by two sisters. This unexpected spotlight has catapulted the brand into international fame. “We are still shocked. We didn’t expect that the world would receive it this way,” says Munkhjargal Choigaalaa, CEO of Michel & Amazonka. The designers had only three months to produce 120 sets of uniforms, a feat accomplished by a dedicated team of 42 people who worked tirelessly to source materials, embroider, and sew the garments.

Michel & Amazonka were not originally slated to design the uniforms for the 2024 Games. They stepped in last minute after another designer withdrew. Their inspiration drew heavily from Mongolian traditions, landscapes, and history. The flag bearers’ tunics resemble the attire worn during Mongolia’s Naadam festival, a celebration of traditional sports like horse racing, wrestling, and archery. The embroidery on the athletes’ vests includes symbols such as the Nine White Banners, often featured at Naadam, along with motifs of mountains, clouds, and the Olympic torch.

Team Mongolia is not the only delegation generating buzz for its distinctive uniforms. Team Haiti and Team Czech Republic, competing under the name Czechia, have also been celebrated for their fashion-forward and culturally significant designs. Stella Jean’s brand designed Haiti’s uniforms, while Jan Černý’s JAN SOCIÉTÉ crafted the outfits for Czechia.

Stella Jean, a Haitian-Italian designer, infused Haiti’s uniforms with deep cultural significance. The men’s attire includes a light blue jacket inspired by the guayabera shirt, vibrant trousers adorned with patterns channeling Haitian Naïve folk art, and a Fular scarf. The women’s outfits feature skirts made from the same fabric, paired with structured jackets. These designs, Jean explains, serve as “a tool of counter colonization,” blending Haitian motifs with Western silhouettes to make a statement at the Paris Olympics a city symbolizing both colonial history and fashion.

Meanwhile, Jan Černý’s designs for Czechia feature a red, blue, and white color palette, mirroring the national flag. The uniforms include a genderless design, highlighted by a lightweight sports coat made from Japanese nylon, reminiscent of the Czech baloňák and the French trench coat. The coat’s inky blue Rorschach print pays homage to Czech artist Vladimír Boudník.

Černý, reflecting on the reception of his designs, noted mixed reactions within Czech society but observed increasing support as his work gained international attention. “It is typical Czech behavior,” he remarked. “We don’t really believe in ourselves, and we need approval from somebody to believe it.”

As these designers showcase their work on the world’s largest stage, they share a common belief in the power of cultural expression. Michel & Amazonka hope to see more countries incorporate traditional garments into their Olympic attire. Stella Jean wishes to convey the message that “creativity has no border; it’s a global passport.” And Černý hopes larger nations will consider smaller brands for their uniforms, highlighting local talent.

The Olympic Opening Ceremony is not just a parade of nations; it is the biggest catwalk in the world, and all eyes will be on these designers’ creations.

Content courtesy of Time Magazine & NFH

Fashion with a Purpose: Tampa Designer Revolutionizes Apparel for People with Disabilities

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Lady Natasha Fines is on a mission to redefine fashion for those often overlooked by the industry. Her company, Lady Fines Adaptive Fashion, is creating stylish and functional clothing for individuals with disabilities.

Inspired by her aunt’s battle with cancer, Fines recognized a significant gap in the market for apparel that catered to the needs of people with physical limitations or chronic illnesses. “For those that have physical disabilities or chronic illnesses or even invisible disabilities, there’s a huge gap in the fashion industry,” she said. “So it’s very fashion forward, really girly and super fun.”

Fines’ designs incorporate accessible features like Velcro and magnetic closures, making it easier for wearers to dress independently. Her model, Anna-Saphia Rogers, who uses a wheelchair, is a vital collaborator in the design process. “Having her type of clothing out there gives me ideas and gives other ideas on how to change clothing to where it is accessible,” Rogers explained.

The duo is set to make waves in the fashion world by participating in New York Fashion Week. With a team of ten inspiring models, mostly from Tampa, Fines aims to represent the city and empower others with disabilities. “There might be another little girl out there with a disability seeing someone like myself or others who have started, and they can believe that, yeah I can do this too,” said Rogers.

Lady Fines Adaptive Fashion is more than just a clothing line; it’s a statement of inclusivity and empowerment. By blending style with functionality, Fines is creating a world where everyone can feel confident and beautiful.

Content courtesy of  Fox 13 News & NFH

The New York Fashion Week Spring 2025 Schedule Is Out: Here’s What You Need to Know

Posted on by Fashion Police

Summer is at its peak right now, which means it’s time to start thinking about the September shows. The spring 2025 New York Fashion Week schedule may be small, but it’s chock-full of surprises.

The week will officially kick off on Friday, September 6th at 1pm with Area, which is currently celebrating its 10th anniversary. It’ll be a big day for the city, with Collina Strada and Willy Chavarria also holding shows on opening day. They’ll be joined by Pieter Mulier, who opted out of Alaïa’s usual off-calendar slot adjacent to the Paris couture season in favor of an off-calendar show here in the Big Apple. The Belgian designer is no stranger to the city, having spent a few years here alongside Raf Simons during the Calvin Klein 205W39NYC era. Last month, he told Vogue:

“New York has a very special significance to me. It’s the city of resilience. And resilience is the feeding ground for creativity. My time in New York has not only shaped my artistic vision but has become an integral part of who I am. It’s where Alaïa’s story intersects with the heartbeat of the world. New York isn’t just a destination; it’s a homecoming, a celebration of the past, present, and future of Alaïa.”

Alaïa is not the only European brand jumping the Atlantic this season; Ib Kamara’s second outing as the official creative director for Off-White will take place on Sunday, September 8 at noon, while Ronald van der Kemp will be showing his fall 2024 couture collection on Wednesday, September 11 at 11am, and after a stop in Paris, Stockholm’s Elin Kling and Karl Lindman of Toteme will be holding their show on Tuesday, September 10 at 10am. Campillo, the Mexican brand helmed by Patricio Campillo, who was recently named an LVMH Prize finalist, will also be holding its first fashion show in the city on Saturday, September 7 at 9am. Who Decides War is back on the official schedule, showing on Saturday, September 7 at 1pm, as is Rio Sport, Rio Uribe’s newly-christened brand, which is showing on Wednesday, September 11 at 1pm.

The week will feature a large contingent of this year’s CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalists—Kate Barton, Grace Ling, Jane Wade, and Wiederhoeft are back on the schedule, while 5000’s Taylor Thompson, Sebastien Ami, and Presley Oldham are making their debuts. Melitta Baumeister, the winner of last year’s CVFF, will be closing NYFW with her first-ever fashion show taking place on the 11th at 5pm.

A few big designers are missing from the schedule this season, including Altuzarra, Helmut Lang, Gabriela Hearst, Fforme, Proenza Schouler, and Ralph Lauren, but for the latter two it is simply because they are holding shows before the official week kicks off. Proenza Schouler will stage an intimate presentation on Wednesday, September 4, while Ralph Lauren will be taking guests to the Hamptons on Thursday, September 5.

We’ll be sure to keep you posted with any further changes taking place in the weeks ahead.

New York Fashion Week runs from Friday, September 6 to Wednesday, September 11.

Content courtesy of New York FashionWeek & NFH

Designers We Are Wearing: Zero & Maria Cornejo

Posted on by Nairobi Fashion Hub

Zero & Maria Cornejo: Combining Thoughtful Design with Ethical Material Use

Zero & Maria Cornejo, a clothing brand that has risen to prominence in the fashion industry, seamlessly combines thoughtful and feminine designs with the use of ethical materials. Starting with geometric shapes as the foundation for their garments, the brand strikes a playful balance between universal styles and unique silhouettes, creating an elegant, almost naturalistic aesthetic. The Spring/Summer 2024 collection exemplifies this approach, as designer Maria Cornejo transforms classic pin-striped linens, matching sets, and neutral tones into distinctively structured garments.

Originally from Chile, Maria Cornejo’s career has taken her through fashion capitals such as London, Paris, Milan, and Tokyo before she ultimately settled in New York in 1998 to establish the Zero & Maria Cornejo brand. Initially launched as a retail boutique, the brand evolved as Cornejo’s passion for designing clothing that transcends fleeting trends grew. Her collections offer modern luxury, featuring textiles that mimic nature, baggy denims, mandarin collars, business-style rompers, and elegantly draped silk dresses, reflecting her nomadic lifestyle and career path.

A Commitment to Ethical and Sustainable Fashion

Cornejo’s travels are not the only influence on her brand; her commitment to ethical and sustainable fashion is a driving force behind her work. After relocating from the Noho studio to the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Cornejo became acutely aware of the excess textiles accumulated over years of production. This realization led her to repurpose these materials into the Zero’s 2025 Capsule wardrobe. “As always, our focus is on responsible design, where 73% of our fabrics have an eco-component and are predominantly washable and upcycled,” Cornejo explained.

She further detailed that many of their fabrics meet the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and are sourced from the non-profit organization Cradle 2 Cradle. Additionally, the Zero & Maria Cornejo brand is certified “Made in New York,” with the entire 2025 Capsule Collection manufactured in New York City.

Designs for Every Woman

Through Zero & Maria Cornejo, each garment reflects Cornejo’s vision, connecting with women of diverse styles and backgrounds while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability. Whether bold or conservative, a New York native or a Parisian, a maximalist or minimalist, Zero & Maria Cornejo offers designs that cater to every taste.

Discover Zero & Maria Cornejo at Gus Mayer.

Content courtesy of N Focus Magazine & NFH

Titilope Monebi: Revolutionizing Nigerian Fashion with Streetwear Designs

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

The Promise of Streetwear Fashion: Insights from Titilope Monebi

Amid the dynamic landscape of Nigeria’s fashion industry, LIK DA STITCH, a streetwear fashion brand founded by Monebi Titilope Faith, also known as Streetwear Tailor, is set to revolutionize the sector with its unique blend of comfort and style.

With five years of experience working alongside her mother, a celestial garment maker, Titilope Monebi ventured into streetwear fashion in 2020. Her passion for the craft and her desire to educate fashion designers on sustainable income opportunities within this niche inspired her journey.

Monebi’s perspective on streetwear is that it embodies the ability to dress comfortably for any occasion. LIK DA STITCH aims to support both established fashion designers seeking to expand their knowledge of streetwear and aspiring designers looking to enter the industry.

“The fashion industry has shown great promise in the streetwear fashion design niche,” Monebi observed. “Streetwear fashion design is a promising niche, and I aim to contribute to its growth and development.”

Through LIK DA STITCH, Monebi Titilope Faith is committed to providing high-quality streetwear that merges comfort and style. Her designs cater to individuals who wish to make bold statements with their fashion choices, reflecting a unique and modern aesthetic.

As LIK DA STITCH continues to grow, Monebi’s innovative approach and dedication to the streetwear niche are set to make significant impacts on Nigeria’s fashion industry, paving the way for new trends and opportunities.

Content courtesy of Van Guard & NFH 

Sustainable Fashion Takes Center Stage at Berlin Fashion Week (BFW)

Posted on by Fashion Police

Berlin Fashion Week (BFW) witnessed a significant shift towards sustainability, with brands such as People, Avenir, Haderlump, and Rianna + Nina demonstrating that style and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. As the hectic schedule wound down, attendees were treated to an exceptional event in the Mitte district, hosted by People, a fashion brand with a unique mission.

People collaborates with young individuals aged 13 to 27 who are homeless, struggle with mental health issues, or face drug addiction. Together, they create handmade clothing, accessories, ceramics, and design objects. Co-founder Ayleen Meissner explained, “We started the project because of a longing to bring fashion back to people, to bring it into the middle of society and to have it more inclusive, more diverse, and less elite.”

Launched in 2015 by Meissner and Cornelia Zoller, People is committed to zero waste, upcycling, and promoting gender and size fluidity. Meissner emphasized the importance of connecting fashion with people facing challenges, blending fashion, psychology, and social work to empower young people through design. Their latest collection, “Edition 6: Less,” is a response to societal pressures and norms, featuring natural dyes and eco-friendly pigments. The collection, displayed at the Nella Beljan Gallery until July 23, includes hand-crocheted bags, raw silk trousers, and deconstructed suiting.

People participated in the Studio2Retail program, organized by Fashion Council Germany (FCG), which provides grants to designers to connect with consumers. Scott Lipinski, FCG’s chief executive, highlighted the initiative’s aim to integrate BFW into the community, emphasizing fashion’s role in shaping young people’s ideas and celebrating individuality.

Another highlight was Avenir’s public runway show near Potsdamer Platz, showcasing sustainable denim designs tailored for modern commuters. Founded by Sophie Claussen in 2020, Avenir champions a circular economy model, utilizing surplus fabrics sourced from the Spanish textile platform Recovo. This approach allows Avenir to scale collections despite the challenges of using deadstock fabrics.

Haderlump also focused on sustainability by using deadstock fabrics and producing made-to-order items locally in Berlin. Other notable events included an exhibition and panel discussion by Natascha von Hirschhausen and CSR.ART, the Black in Fashion pop-up event curated by Buki Akomolafe, and a show by slow fashion brand Rianna + Nina.

Carina Bischof, chairwoman and co-founder of Fashion Revolution Germany, noted the significant groundwork being laid through various talks and events. Avenir, for example, hosted a textile printing workshop for The Lissome magazine, which advocates for fashion rooted in reciprocity and craft.

Berlin’s supportive infrastructure, collaborative community, and favorable government policies make it a fertile ground for sustainable enterprises. BFW, revitalized under FCG since 2022, emphasizes community as its core message. Christiane Arp, FCG’s chairwoman, praised the local and international community spirit reflected throughout the event, underscoring the inclusive and progressive culture of Berlin.

From the opening party to the closing event, Berlin Fashion Week celebrated the synergy between sustainability and fashion, proving that ethical practices and stylish design are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary forces driving the future of fashion.

Content courtesy of Berlin Fashion Week & NFH 

The Rise of Achieng Agutu: Kenya’s Confidence Queen Shines in Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

In a groundbreaking debut, Achieng Agutu, hailed as Kenya’s Confidence Queen has illuminated the pages of Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam with her unapologetic charisma and distinctive style. With a career rooted in redefining beauty standards and empowering women globally, Agutu’s presence marks a significant stride towards inclusivity and representation in the fashion industry.

Agutu’s journey to the international stage is a testament to her unwavering determination and visionary spirit. Growing up in Nairobi, she discovered her passion for fashion at a young age, using clothing as a medium to express individuality and challenge societal norms. Her unique blend of African heritage and contemporary elegance has garnered attention across the globe, earning her a dedicated following of admirers who resonate with her message of self-acceptance and cultural pride.

A Multifaceted Trailblazer
According to Harper’s Bazaar, Achieng Agutu has cemented her place in the public eye not just as a model but also as a dynamic TV show host and digital content creator. Through her vibrant social media presence, Agutu has made a name for herself by serving daily doses of motivation, affirmations, self-love, and fearlessness. Her platforms are a sanctuary for those seeking inspiration and a reminder of the power of authenticity.

The Upcoming Show: “INFLUENCED”
Agutu’s influence extends beyond fashion and social media; she is set to take on a new role as one of the lead hosts of “INFLUENCED,” a highly anticipated Gen Z version of “The View,” premiering on Amazon Prime on August 1st. This show promises to be a fresh and contemporary take on current events, pop culture, and social issues, with Agutu’s unique perspective adding depth and vibrancy to the discussions. Her involvement in “INFLUENCED” underscores her versatility and commitment to using her voice for positive change.

Redefining Beauty Standards
Her collaboration with Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam showcases Agutu’s ability to seamlessly merge traditional African aesthetics with high-fashion sensibilities, creating a visual narrative that celebrates diversity and authenticity. Through bold patterns, vibrant colors, and avant-garde designs, she captivates readers with a style that transcends borders and speaks to the universal language of confidence and self-expression.

Advocacy and Social Change
Beyond her sartorial prowess, Agutu is a vocal advocate for social change, using her platform to promote inclusivity and representation within the fashion industry. She champions diversity not only in the models chosen for editorial spreads but also in the narratives they embody, challenging stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive dialogue on beauty and identity. Her message is clear: true beauty lies in embracing one’s uniqueness and heritage.

A Beacon of Inspiration
As she continues to break barriers and defy expectations, Achieng Agutu stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring fashion enthusiasts and influencers worldwide. Her journey from Nairobi to the pages of Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam is not just a milestone in her career but a cultural landmark, paving the way for future generations to embrace their heritage with pride and confidence on the global stage.

In a world that often imposes narrow definitions of beauty and success, Achieng Agutu’s rise to prominence serves as a powerful reminder that authenticity, resilience, and self-love are the true markers of greatness. Her story is a celebration of what it means to be unapologetically oneself and a call to all to find and use their unique voices in the tapestry of global culture.

Content courtesy of  Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam & NFH Digital Team

Cardi B Wows in an Explosion of Fabric and Sky-High Heels at Marc Jacobs Fashion Show

Posted on by Fashion Police

Cardi B is stealing the spotlight once again!

The rapper, 31, made a sensational appearance at the Marc Jacobs Fall 2024 fashion show in New York City on Monday, July 1. Cardi B turned heads as she arrived in a burst of color and statement platform heels, showcasing her distinctive style.

She donned a custom lilac, purple, and yellow feathered songbird dress from Marc Jacobs’ Spring 2020 Ready-to-Wear collection. Complementing her vibrant ensemble, she wore yellow knit tights and the designer’s iconic white Kiki boots. Adding to her quirky look, Cardi accessorized with yellow-framed sunglasses, styled her hair in a retro beehive, and sported a nude lip and long pink nails.

In a clip posted on X (formerly Twitter), Cardi was seen modeling her striking outfit, twirling around the halls of the New York Public Library, where the show was held. Another video posted by stylist Kollin Carter captured Cardi confidently strutting alongside the models at the show. “Yeah, one of the models, bitch!” Cardi exclaimed in the clip.

Cardi’s attendance at the fashion show followed her headlining performance at the BET Experience concert in Los Angeles on Friday, June 28. At the Crypto.com Arena, she wowed the audience in an oversized black jersey top adorned with rhinestones, black fingerless leather gloves, and Prada Monolith boots.

In recent days, Cardi has been rocking a series of statement looks. On June 24, she paid homage to Princess Diana while shopping in Los Angeles, matching the late royal’s 1997 athleisure look with a white “Harvard” sweatshirt, white biker shorts, and sneakers, and even replicating Diana’s signature hairstyle with a cropped cut.

On June 21, the “WAP” singer opted for a demure look at the Hollywood Impact Awards, wearing an oversized black blazer by The Row and a sheer floor-length David Koma skirt. She elevated her red carpet ensemble with sheer black gloves, strappy black heels, a diamond necklace, and several diamond-encrusted accessories.

Cardi B continues to captivate audiences with her bold and eclectic fashion choices, proving once again why she remains a fashion icon.

Content courtesy of People and NFH Digital Team

Mantsho x Nedbank’s Fashion Line Inspired by MiGoals Premium

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

In partnership with renowned fashion designer and founder of Mantsho, Palesa Mokubung, Nedbank has launched South Africa’s first-ever fashion collection inspired by a bank account. Titled “Now More People Can Premium” by Mantsho x Nedbank’s MiGoals Premium, this collection is a unique embodiment of Nedbank’s MiGoals Premium Account, designed to give more people the chance to enjoy a premium lifestyle.

Mantsho x Nedbank Partnership

Nedbank’s collaboration with Mantsho underscores the brand’s investment in cultural and social capital, highlighting its commitment to empowerment and inspiration beyond financial services. This partnership celebrates African culture, aiming to bring the heritage and innovation of the continent to a broader audience through unique experiences.

Buli Ndlovu, Executive Head of Marketing for Retail and Business Banking at Nedbank, explained the concept: “The Mantsho partnership is incredibly exciting for us. Mantsho is a high-end, award-winning fashion brand, and many people were unable to access these iconic pieces. Inspired by our Nedbank MiGoals Premium Account, designed to allow more people to experience a premium lifestyle, we’ve created a fashion line that embodies this, bringing premium access to more people.”

Founded in 2004, Mantsho, a Sesotho name meaning “Black is Beautiful,” has become renowned for its bold, confident, and vibrant designs celebrating African womanhood. Palesa Mokubung’s journey in fashion began with a profound passion for design and a deep-rooted connection to her African heritage, leading her to become a pioneering South African fashion designer celebrated globally.

“This collection is designed to be more than just apparel; it’s about enhancing the lifestyle of Nedbank MiGoals Premium account holders. We aim to make luxury and high fashion accessible, helping customers express their personal style and aspirations confidently. The collection supports a lifestyle where elegance and ambition go hand in hand, enabling our clients to present their best selves to the world,” says Mokubung.

Mantsho x Nedbank’s MiGoals Premium Collection

The locally made “Now More People Can Premium” by Mantsho x Nedbank’s MiGoals Premium collection comprises nine items, including accessories, T-shirts, and kimono dresses, all created from locally sourced fabrics. Each item was curated for its dynamic and contemporary take on high fashion with a local flair, giving shoppers a chance to own a statement piece of cultural pride and sophistication.

The collection will be exclusively available on the Avo SuperShop, a hyper-personalized shopping platform featuring a wide range of South Africa’s favorite brands. With a massive 30% discount available to holders of a Nedbank MiGoals Premium Account, the idea of “Now More People Can Premium” has never been more attainable, making it easier than ever to own an iconic Mantsho piece.

“Making our brand affordable opens it up to a new audience. We are bringing a premium brand closer to a wider audience, which we love. We also love that Mantsho and Nedbank share many of the same values: we are both intent on doing something more meaningful in a creative space. It feels like a good and genuine synergy,” Ndlovu said.

“South African fashion continues to push creative boundaries, and this is a great embodiment of that. A fashion line inspired by the MiGoals Premium Account is unexpected and interesting, and we love the challenge of bringing this concept to life,” concludes Ndlovu.

Content courtesy of Biz Community & NFH Digital Team 

Bold and Colorful Designs Shine at Khayelitsha Fashion Week

Posted on by Nairobi Fashion Hub

Designers from across the Cape Flats showcased their vibrant creations at the Artscape Theatre Centre during the red carpet event for Khayelitsha Fashion Week. The theme, “Grounded in Nature,” brought forth bold and colorful designs, reflecting the unique perspectives and cultural heritage of the participants. Now in its eighth year, Khayelitsha Fashion Week is part of the Mother City Fashion Experience, founded by Zibonele FM breakfast show host Bongani Matenjwa.

Models and aspiring designers, primarily from the Cape Flats, demonstrated their talents on the runway. Among the 11 designers featured were creatives from Delft, Philippi, Langa, Nyanga, Khayelitsha, Parklands, and Manenberg, with a total of 45 models participating.

Matenjwa explained that the selection process for models and designers begins with a public call on social media. “Our models are not paid. Those ultimately selected undergo two months of training every Saturday, as some have no prior runway experience. Designers also apply and are chosen through a similar process.”

The event, which takes about four months to organize, was sponsored by Artscape Theatre, City of Cape Town, Shezz Hair Salon, Okuhle Nails and Beauty, Brand Magazine, and Zibonele FM. Originally planned as a two-day affair, unforeseen circumstances condensed it to a single day.

In the lead-up to the fashion show, selected designers participate in business training workshops. One standout designer, Avumile Majola, 34, from the Eastern Cape and now based in Parklands, shared her journey. A former content producer at Cape Town TV with a diploma in public relations, Majola moved to Cape Town with dreams of making it in the fashion industry.

Majola’s brand, Weentokazi, focuses on nature and body positivity. She challenged traditional media portrayals of beauty, advocating for inclusivity with her designs. “The media has lied to us, telling us that models need to be thin and have long straight hair. We are changing that, showing that we, with our afros and curves, can also be models.”

Majola, who runs her fashion business from home, designs and creates all her garments from scratch. “I did a year and a half on a fashion course at a creative hub in Observatory. After that, YouTube has been my go-to for learning new techniques.”

The name Weentokazi was inspired by her grandfather’s affectionate term for ladies, which she redefined to mean, “Here I am, I have arrived!” Majola advertises her garments on social media and reinvests all profits back into her business. She aspires to own Weentokazi clothing stores in the future.

Other designers at the event included Dandie Candie, Philip Albert, Mzukwane, Mos, Jaye, Rissa, Mgxobane, Zee Manguni, Ligugu Craft, and Sethu Wethu, each contributing to the rich tapestry of talent and creativity that defines Khayelitsha Fashion Week.

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