Bonko Khoza On Playing Mqhele, Following His Passion And Upcoming Projects

Bonginkosi ‘Bonko’ Khoza / Actor & Voice-Over Artist

What sparked the love for acting?

I have always been into acting, since primary school I loved plays but never took it seriously. I went to art school and studied graphic design, I dreamt of being an overall visual artist. After 2 years of trying that, I dropped out to figure out my life. I asked myself if I was doing things because the status quo says so or if I was going to focus on what brings me joy. I decided that I wanted to do something I enjoy and would do for the rest of my life. So I took the decision to study Drama at The Market Theatre Laboratory.

You play ‘Mqhele’ on Showmax’s ‘The Wife’, how would you describe the character?

He is a complex character that is heavily bothered by demons in his head. He has unresolved childhood traumas that cause him to act and react in a certain way. Other than that, he is a sweet guy.

You are an extremely talented actor. How do you prepare yourself for a role?

My preparation starts at the audition level. I’ll read my script and research the character biography. I get to know the character and start looking at costumes and play scenes out. If I get the role, it’s a progression of building the character.

What would you change about the South African entertainment industry?

The industry doesn’t exist on its own, it doesn’t function without the audience. If anything, I would like to change the audience. I wish South Africa would open up access to more global content because it is part of a global market. The audience can then push the industry towards something different. The audience needs to start playing with their appetite and choosing different types of content.

That one moment in your career so far that you’ll never forget?

I spent a day with Benedict Cumberbatch in 2020. We did a scene together on a film called The Mauritanian. My scene was initially for his character. The casting director told me to keep pushing and keep my head up because it may be overwhelming. We did the scene in Cape Town and it dawned on me in that moment that he was just a colleague and I had to get it together. From that moment, we started talking and getting to know each other. That was a special time.

Is there anyone that you call your role model/inspiration?

Mahershala Ali, I love the way he handles his career and brand. He keeps it very much acting-centric even if he does work for brands. He has won two Oscars and I’m pretty sure when he’s not acting he’s probably spending time with his family and relaxing.

What is the importance of following your passion?

Life has a price to pay, you’re not here for free. The system will try and put you in a place where you are most comfortable. When you’re most comfortable, you’ve got nothing to complain about. But things like passion come from the inside, it is who you are, it’s an expression of your true self. Retrospection and bravery are important where passion is involved.

’13 Weeks To Find Mr Right’ is your upcoming project, are you working on other things at the moment?

I have already wrapped 13 Weeks To Find Mr Right. I have now started working on a Disney animation, I’m also shooting a Hollywood film and in talks with various directors but I can’t say much about that right now. Actively working on The Wife and voice overs.

Any advice for aspiring actors?

Study first, treat the art with respect and it will pay you back with longevity and substance. Put in the work and the time. Believe in your dreams, trust in God and don’t forget to pray.

Images by Asanele Shaun

Follow Bonko!

Instagram: @bonkokhoza

Twitter: @BonkoKhoza

Facebook: @bonkokhoza

–Bridgette Makhela

Laduma Ngxokolo On MaXhosa Brand, Coming 2 America Movie And The Clothing Industry

Laduma Ngxokolo / Designer / MaXhosa Africa Brand Owner

Your brand MaXhosa Africa, what would you say is its ex-factor?

The patterns, which is what makes it distinctive and recognizable by consumers. The quality too.

How long did it take you to get to where you are today?

This was always my life plan. I’ve been in the industry for 10 years now, since the start of the business, this was always the plan, and I just didn’t know it would get to where it is now, as quickly as it did.

Coming 2 America, how did the collaboration happen?

The costume designer Ruth E. Carter contacted me two years ago and told me she’d been following my work for some years and would love to collaborate with me. A month later, she contacted me again and told me she’s working on the Coming 2 America movie and would love to work with me. Of course I said yes. The movie is a classic and the work I’ve showcased will still live on even after my time.



How does a typical day look for an international brand such as yours?

I wake up and get to work at 7AM every day, by then everyone is already at work when I arrive. All the departments usually have meetings the entire day and we make sure we’re always aligned.

As a business, what have you taken from the pandemic?

One of the lessons I learned is that saving is very important and knowing where you are positioned as a business in the industry. Human Resources is very valuable within a business and the sustainability of a business comes a lot from how the employees are treated.
 
What would you say South Africa is doing right in the clothing/textile industry?

The labour laws, we’re doing that right. Financial support from the government we’re doing right and a lot of designers are defining their own DNA and we’re standing out as a country.
 


Ever get creative block or lack of inspiration?

I hardly ever get those…instead, I get too many ideas to produce so I have had to learn how to cut down and focus on certain things at a time. I still design everything myself but I’m training my team to assist with that.
 
Any collaborations you’d still like to take on?

Yes, more within the lifestyle space. Crockery brands, appliances brands, etc.
 
Any inspirational advice you’d like to give to people seeking to be in your industry?

Know what your purpose is. Whatever path you choose will determine your level of passion for it. Education plays a big role in knowing the industry you operate in. Work hard, that even beats talented people when they are not working hard enough.

 

Follow Laduma & MaXhosa!

Instagram: @laduma / @maxhosa

Twitter: @LadumaNgxokolo / @MaXhosaAfrica

Facebook: @LudaNgxokolo / @MAXHOSA

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Shudufhadzo Musida On Miss South Africa Title And 2020 Becoming A Dream Come True

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Shudufhadzo Abigail Musida / 24 / Miss South Africa 2020

Obvious first question…how does it feel to be Miss South Africa 2020?

It feels amazing and surreal, I have to pinch myself sometimes. It’s also been so busy as well. It usually hits me at night when I head to bed. It’s still hitting me in small doses.

How was your upbringing like?

It was a good upbringing, I was in a free and safe space where I could always be myself.

When did you decide to try out for the pageant?

I decided last year for the first time. Before I didn’t think I could enter such a pageant, I thought you had to look a certain way but I realised things were changing.

What kept you going through all the weeks leading up to the main event?

Knowing that I would make a really good Miss South Africa, I could make a change and do really well at being an ambassador of the country. I’ve always wanted to impact people’s lives and live a life of service.

One cool thing South Africans don’t know about you …yet?

I’ve always wanted to be a singer and entertainer.

Mental Health is a strong focus of yours, what’s your take on the youth of today and how they tackle this serious issue?

I read somewhere that suicide is currently the leading cause of death between ages 15-29 and in South Africa, 1 in 10 people are expected to suffer from mental health in their lifetime but only I in those 10 people will have access to mental healthcare. It is an important issue globally and when people are not okay, they don’t know that it’s okay to not be okay. It is still considered a taboo issue around the world, and no one equips the youth and we end up having a high suicide rate.

Your absolute favourite moment of the Miss South Africa journey before your crowning?

In Cape Town sitting at the dinner table and hearing some of the ladies telling us about their adventures in New York. I remember memorising everyone’s name on the table that night. I have never been that happy in my life.

What’s your advice to other young ladies in pursuit of the crown?

Your dreams are valid, you can do it if you put your mind to it. Many stereotypes and narratives have been changed. It’s your time!

Follow Shudufhadzo!

Instagram: @shudufhadzomusida

Twitter: @abigailmusida

Facebook: @ShudufhadzoMusida

-Bridgette Makhela

T’neeya On Music, Joli, A New Album And Her Time In South Africa

T’neeya / Singer & Songwriter

Did music choose you?

100% and I’m so grateful it did! Wouldn’t have it any other way.

The best thing about your journey so far?

Meeting new people from different backgrounds and cultures, sharing my music with my audience, connecting with amazing artists and just overall getting better at my craft.

How would you describe the music you create?

It’s a blend of Afro Pop, Soul and R&B. I sing/rap in English, French and Pidgin.

Your song ‘Joli’ has been making noticeable waves, what’s the message in there?

It’s a feel good song. A nice uplifting blend of melodies you could easily vibe to in a bar, club or on the highway. In this record I’m talking to a “joli gars” which means pretty boy, basically expressing my feelings for him!

Your thoughts on African music in general?

Proud to be part of the movement, we have a lot to offer and it’s only UP from here!

What are the positives that you have experienced during this pandemic?

Taking some time for myself. Self-love has been eye opening!

How would you describe your time spent in South Africa?

Too short!!! I wish I stayed longer! I loved everything from the people to the culture to the street wear fashion! Can’t wait to go back!

Any new material you’re working on?

My first album, my baby!!! Can’t wait to share when the time is right. Stay tuned.

What would you tell aspiring female artists?

This is what I would advise any artist: Believe in yourself, surround yourself with the good people and never give up!

 

Follow T’neeya!

Instagram: @tneeya

Twitter: @tneeyaofficial

Facebook: @tneeya1

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Nasty C On New Album Zulu Man With Some Power, His Journey And Hip Hop Culture

Nasty C / 23 / Rapper, Songwriter & Record Producer

Started From The Bottom Now You’re Here: How has your journey to where you are now been like?

It’s been interesting. Lots of ups, lot of downs. Good memories, some trauma and permanent damage too. I wouldn’t do it any other way though.

If Music Be The Food Of Love: What’s the message in your song ‘There They Go?’

Its addressing haters and people that like to doubt things with no proper reason. It’s about how I’ve grown a thick skin when it comes to haters and how I view them in my eyes.

In A Nutshell: Can you sum up what ‘Zulu Man With Some Power’ Means To You?

It means that I’m a man who understands what I am and where I come from, also understanding where I am going, which is a big deal for me especially with going global now. It also means that I am a person that understands that I have power. I want people to know that they too have power when they listen to this album, they can be kings, bosses and gods of their own worlds and they don’t have to live by other people’s standards.

Can You Keep A Secret: Share something no one knows about your music-making process?

I actually do a lot of writing in the shower, I don’t think a lot of people know that…

It’s Bigger Than Hip-Hop: What has Hip-Hop culture taught you?

It has taught me confidence, I doubt there’s another industry that needs confidence such as the one I’m in. People will give you all the love in the world when you have confidence.

Featuring: The features on the album, have a favourite one?

I like all of them, they are all so different. There are all types of songs, different feels and different styles as well.

On The Real Though: Please drop some advice for upcoming artists…

Just stay true to who you are, that doesn’t mean that you have to be a 1000% different from another person, a lot of artists fail to understand this. Sometimes people don’t like who they are any way, so they try so hard to be so different and it’s out of pressure most times and you can’t blame them. Be patient, don’t look at what others have on their plate and keep focused, look ahead and keep going.

 

Follow Nasty C! 

Instagram: @nasty_csa

Twitter: @Nasty_CSA

Facebook: @nastyczzle

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Ambassadors For Mamelodi Sundowns’ #SingWithSundowns Share Thoughts On The Football Club Celebrating 50 Years

Warren Masemola:

You’ve made an amazing impact in the entertainment industry, why be an ambassador for Mamelodi Sundowns?

Apart from being a proud Pretorian from Soshanguve, I grew up a fanatic since a match I watched at ODI Stadium when I was just 7 years old.

What does Mamelodi Sundowns celebrating 50 years mean to you?

Celebrating 50 years of Mamelodi Sundowns for me means a well-engineered dream can sustain itself for generations.

What is Sing With Sundowns all about?

#SingWithSundowns is a national competition that seeks to promote music in all the official languages of South Africa. Contestants enter a song that stands a chance to win R30,000.00 each month, between R100,000.00 to R600,000.00, or the R1million grand prize. The winner of the grand prize shall be announced at the end of the year Gala Banquet.

What is your advice for entrants?

 The song must refer to names or any new names associated with Mamelodi Sundowns, be creative. No songs will be accepted if they contain improper, disrespectful or defamatory language. Contestants must send songs to www.sundownsfc.com

Andile Ncube:

You’re an avid sports fan, what stands out for you about Mamelodi Sundowns?

Sundowns is the standard bearer for success and inspiration. More than anything, it is a supporter’s team, it’s always been, but now with a social conscience.

You’ve experienced both the sports and entertainment worlds, how does being an ambassador for Sing With Sundowns feel like?

Whenever one has an opportunity to give back or to assist and be a part of something bigger than themselves, seeing a career established and rise is always a fulfilling feeling.

50 years and Mamelodi Sundowns is still standing, what do you believe is the club’s winning formula?

It’s not only the consistent wins on the field but it’s the club’s identity and allegiance with supporters in South Africa and beyond. The president and the Motsepe family have opened the doors and made everyone feel welcome and like family.

What are you most excited about when it comes to the competition?

Like Sundowns does on the field when they unleash and introduce new talent like Percy Tau or with Miss Sundowns when they empower young woman like Zozi, I want to see a star! Someone writing a song and putting it together in their bedroom somewhere in South Africa and hearing it being played by thousands at stadiums across this nation.

Lamiez Holworthy:

You’re doing great in the entertainment space, how has your journey been like?

A roller coaster really. But for the most part, it’s been amazing. Got my big break when I was on the verge of giving up and seeing how God and my ancestors have made all my dreams come true, it leaves me in awe.

What do you believe you represent by being one of the Sing With Sundowns ambassadors?

Authenticity. I am proudly and authentically Pretorian. I wear that on my shoulders and I grew up supporting Sundowns. But most importantly because I am a DJ, I have an ear for music so choosing a great song will come easy for me.

What’s your favourite thing about Mamelodi Sundowns?

How it brings people from all walks of life together.

Lindiwe Dube:

You’ve been in the Sports industry for a while, why this route?

I grew up in Daveyton a township in Ekurhuleni. That’s where my love for the beautiful game started. My passion for the sport increased over the years and I wanted to be more than just a football fan. I was inspired by one of the leading ladies in sport like Carol Tshabalala, to take up space in a in a male dominated industry.

As an ambassador for Sing With Sundowns, what are you most hopeful for?

I’m a firm believer in opportunities & empowerment. The #SingWithSundowns campaign will change people’s lives. The music competition is open for all South Africans, men and women. By simply submitting their Mamelodi Sundowns themed song in a language of their choice, including Xu and Khwe, could walk away with a whopping R1 million. I’m really looking forward to seeing lives transform and dreams coming true through this amazing project.

How do you think Mamelodi Sundowns maintains consistency?

The club has always invested in the best players in the world, they have great structures, an amazing coach, a great technical team and more importantly, they have a bevy of fans who fully support them through thick and thin. In recent years, they’ve rewarded them with 9 PSL titles, a CAF champions league and a CAF super cup title, amongst many other other accolades.

50 years of the the club, has this impacted your career in any way?

50 years of Masandawana has produced several players such as Percy Tau, Keagan Dolly and Bongani Zungu who now play in some of the top leagues in Europe. The club has empowered people on and off the pitch. The current Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi was a provincial finalist of the Miss Mamelodi Sundowns pageant, that just shows the brand is more than just about football.

 

Follow Mamelodi Sundowns!

Instagram: @sundownsfc

Twitter: @Masandawana

Facebook: @sundownsfc

Website: http://www.sundownsfc.co.za

 

-Bridgette Makhela 

Nomuzi “Moozlie” Mabena On The Come Up, Making Music And What The Industry Lacks

Nomuzi “Moozlie” Mabena / 27 / Recording Artist

It’s Been A Minute: You’ve been in the industry for a a while, how has the journey been?

It’s really been exciting. Lots of highs and lows, plenty of lessons learnt and priceless memories to last a lifetime.

Something New: ‘I’m A Star’ just dropped recently, what’s the message there?

I think the title says it all, just letting people know I’m a star!

A First: What are you still jamming from your debut album ‘Victory’?

‘Vatel’ will forever be on my playlist, but ‘Victory Anthem’ featuring Tribal has been really great during these crazy times.

A Woman Of Many Talents: What do you enjoy more, TV or making music?

Making music.

Coming To You Live!: The one thing you still get nervous about at live performances?

I’m not sure if nervous is the right word but you always want the crowd to engage and enjoy your performance. You always want people to like what you’ve got to offer.

If Only Ya’ll Knew: The dopest thing to happen to you in your career so far?

I could tell you but I’d have to kill you. I’ve worked with some of the biggest stars both locally & internationally so just know I’ve got behind the scenes stories for days, lol.

Preach Sister!: What does the South African entertainment industry lack?

Wow, there’s a lot honestly. Our industry is still young and although we’ve come far, we still have a long way to go. True costing for work being one of them, it’s high time we all got paid our worth. Not only the people on screen, but those behind the scenes too. There’s a big shift that needs to happen.

There Can Only Be One: Fashion or Friends?

Friends. You can always steal their clothes, that way you have both.

The Come Up: What advice would you give to anyone trying to build a lasting brand?

Think about who you want to be in the future and think about who you are now. A perfect blend of both those people authentically shining through will always be relatable no matter what stage you’re at, and give yourself room to grow as a person.

 

Follow Moozlie!

Instagram: @moozlie

Twitter: @nomoozlie

Facebook: @Moozlie

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Doowap & Tarryn On New Single Thunda Thighs, Collaborations And Performing

Khetsiwe “Doowap” Morgan / 30 / Live Mix DJ & Performer

Tarryn “TNT” Alberts / 29 / Artist, Dancer & Business Owner

You guys recently released a banger of an Amapiano song called ‘Thunda Thighs’, how did the concept come about?

Tarryn and I had been listening to a lot of Amapiano in 2019 and we started creating choreography routines to some of the tracks to perform during my DJ sets. Then end of 2019, Tarryn had the hook “Mmmm aaaahhh mmmm aaahhhh Thunda Thunda” stuck in her head and around that time we had just met the young producer DJ Nel (now going by the name DJ Nelcee) at one of our shows in Limpopo. I spoke to Nel and got him to send through some of his beats for us to vibe to. We both fell in love with the power and energy of the Thunda Thighs beat and we made the song that same day, all that was left was for it to be mixed and mastered.

How and when did you two start collaborating?

I have always admired Tarryn as a dancer, already back in 2014. Then in 2017 I asked her to help me out with creating a show and adding dance as a new element. Our first ever gig performing together was at Budweiser’s first show in South Africa. We then did Afropunk Jozi and Afropunk Brooklyn, New York together. The transition to making music together was a natural and gradual progression.

Music and Dance are what you guys represent on another level, what do you think the South African industry has done right when it comes to these two entities?

Music and dance is in South Africans’/Africans’ blood. We dance and sing when we happy or sad. There’s always been spaces and platforms for both crafts to shine. I will say though that dancers are not treated with the respect they deserve. The amount of hours they put in to help bring an artist’s show to life is immense. They are often overlooked in terms of budget and attention deserved, but still they deliver over and above to bring a show to life. We need more community centres in underdeveloped areas to give children and young adults an alternative to the harsh circumstances they grow up in. Tarryn started a dance centre called “So Dope”, where she teaches classes and is grooming the next generation of dancers. Hopefully we can have more mentors, leaders and spaces created to nurture and cultivate young talented individuals in all forms of artistry.

Where do you guys keep getting inspiration from?

We are both super inspired and motivated by our country and the driven youth that inhibit it. Connecting with young artists at all ours shows, spending time with like-minded creatives in Braamfontein and each city we visit sparks us and ignites our fire. Travelling is always the biggest inspiration, hopping on a plane and landing in a completely different country with their own culture and views is always a refreshing mind shift and opportunity to learn and engage with other parts of ourselves.

Travel is a major part of your lives, how do you plan your schedules around this?

The traveling is part of the work, I try and organize gigs at the places I would like to visit. Sometimes we are fortunate enough to get opportunities that fly us out of the country and give us time to explore it. Tarryn was fortunate enough to do multiple world tours with a well known group.

Once the lockdown’s done, where can fans look forward to seeing your performances?

Wow the future of music is so uncertain. We are not really thinking about shows at the moment as they keep getting cancelled, the main focus is to keep making music and to keep creating. We are also figuring out new and interesting ways of making money in this industry during this weird climate. If you would like to catch us doing our thing and shining then for now it seems it’s going to have to be virtually through Lives and social media.

Any music video for Thunda Thighs in the pipeline?

We would love a video for Thunda Thighs and have the treatment mapped out but the lockdown has put everything on hold. Hopefully something will come out soon.

The one thing you always do before a performance?

We always do warm ups, some abs and core workout, run through the choreography and stretch. The main thing is to loosen up and get our energy levels up.

Any exciting projects still to come from you two?

At the moment we are just focused on making the music video, keeping fit and finding the direction we want the music to go. We are grateful to have this chance to work on ourselves without the pressure of the outside world at the moment.

Advice for aspiring young females that look up to you?

Advice is do whatever you have to do to keep your star shining. Even if it means sometimes you have to be selfish with your time and the people you want to be around. Work on your passion daily, even on the days you are feeling off, just keep moving forward.

Follow Doowap & Tarryn!

Instagram: @djdoowap / @tarryn_tnt

Twitter: @DJ_Doowap

Facebook: @DjDoowap / @tarryntnt

 

-Bridgette Makhela 

Nandipha Mqoco On Digital Entrepreneurship, MC’ing And Her Love For Fashion

Nandipha Mqoco / 24 / Digital Entrepreneur, Master of Ceremonies & Fashion Enthusiast

School Them: What’s a Digital Entrepreneur?

Someone who starts a business in the digital space. In my case it would be by means of content creation and endorsing products on my social media platforms.

Content Creation: What’s the process followers don’t know about?

A lot of planning and strategizing. Most of the content you see is curated but that process is where it gets fun, well most of the time.

New Year: What would you love to achieve in 2020?

Solidify existing brand relationships. Getting the opportunity to travel more for work as an MC and a Content Creator, collaborating with more international brands too. Being well on my way to achieving full financial independence.

Rewind: How did you get into the Digital and MC’ing space?

My digital career just happened to me. It definitely wasn’t intentional at all. I would post my outfits, places I would go to on my Instagram. My sisters and I would have impromptu shoots with street fashion photographers. In addition to that, my sister Yoliswa who had a bigger following, would also post me on her Instagram. Thereafter, my audience grew and brands started to take notice and the rest was history! My MC career was definitely intentional. I always had a passion for public speaking so it only made sense to turn my passion into a profit.

Fun Fact: Your sisters Yoliswa and Thobeka are also in the Social Media Influencer game, was this always the plan?

Not at all, we were just living our lives and sharing our love for fashion, beauty and lifestyle then BOOM!

Threads: You’re a very stylish girl, where’s the inspiration from?

Thank you so much! My relationship with fashion is VERY personal. I was surrounded by extremely stylish women (my mother and sisters) all my life. I would watch fashion TV all day, everyday. I drive my inspiration from many places. Thank God for the internet because it exposed me to amazing fashion from all across the globe, seeing how people interpret different styles and trends. London, Amsterdam, New York, Beijing, even good ol’ Cape Town right here in Mzansi. I really enjoy how the people dress there.

Brag a Bit: Biggest bag/s you’ve secured so far?

Revlon and Clinique have been the biggest bags for me.

Mzansi: Where do you enjoy spending your free time?

Get on a plane and fly to CAPE TOWN. For many reasons – my sister lives there, the food is amazing, the scenery is breathtaking. There’s just so much to do there! But if that isn’t possible then watching series, movies and documentaries in another favourite place of mine…MY BED, is a close second.

Wisdom: Some advice on how to stay relevant in the digital era?

C-O-N-S-I-S-T-E-N-C-Y

Follow Back: Where can new fans catch you on all platforms?

Instagram: nandipha_mqoco / Twitter: @nan_deep / Facebook: Nandipha

 

–Bridgette Makhela

Mihlali Ndamase On Content, Influencing And Beauty In The Digital Era

Mihlali Ndamase / 22 / Certified Makeup Artist, Brand Strategist, Beauty Content Curator & Co-Founder of Siyasizana Foundation

Content: What does this word mean to you?

Documenting and sharing what brings fulfillment to you.

In this era of social media, how did you become a Digital Entrepreneur?

As my brand grew, I started to understand it’s value and the value it brought to the brands I collaborated with, that’s when I decided to turn content curating into a business.

You’ve made a big name for yourself within the beauty space through your YouTube channel, has this always been your passion?

Yes it has, I started watching Beauty YouTubers at age of 15. I drew a lot of inspiration from them when I finally decided to start my channel.

What does it mean to you to hold an Influencer label?

Being an Influencer means to have the ability to influence the purchase decision of others because of one’s authority, knowledge, position and relationship with their audience. Being regarded as one is honestly such an honour, especially when you work on such platforms, it benefits your business immensely because brands are then able to trust you with their product.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Every day is different, it honestly depends. Sometimes I wake up, go to the gym, come home and shower and begin filming or shooting content. Other days I have shoots in studio or outdoors, depending on who I am shooting for and what the style of the shoot is, then there are meetings in between. Some days are purely for relaxation and unwinding. I either spend them at home alone, or out with friends or family.

You’re the co-founder of Siyasizana Foundation, what is it all about?

Siyasizana Foundation is a non-profit organisation which was founded by myself and Dineo Nono in 2017. We focus on addressing various needs in society, our projects consist of assisting everyone. We have worked closely with Thusong Youth Centre in Alexandra by throwing annual Christmas parties for the children, feeding them and supplying them with uniforms, clothes and blankets for the Winter season. We have also done baby drives (where we supply homes which house abandoned babies with food and clothing), pad drives, Winter clothing drives and book drives. We aim to grow and continue to empower men and women in our community and some day across South Africa.

Congratulations on winning the Cosmopolitan ‘Influencer of the Year Sparkle Award’, some advice to young ladies that look up to you?

Be very persistent in following your dreams, don’t let anybody tell you otherwise because your dreams are valid.

Pick one: Travel or Fashion?

Surely picking one should be illegal! I would have to go with travel.

Any exciting projects you’re working on for the rest of 2019?

More Masterclasses are to come, look out for ‘Beauty and The Beat’ in Durban, Cape Town and all over South Africa. I am also working on some exciting products and there is more growth and expansion to come for the Mihlali brand, I can’t give away too much so keep a lookout!

 

Follow Mihlali!

Instagram: @mihlalii_n

Twitter: @mihlalii_n

Facebook: @MihlaliiNdamase

 

-Bridgette Makhela