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Less becomes so much more.
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CONTENTS COUTURE1410NEWS86IN-HOUSETheTeamDeepDarkRedDIGITALCOUTURECOUTURECULTUREWhat’sHappeningWhere?OriginAfricaNairobiDreadlocksAffair2018QueeningItInHeadwrapsCELEBRITYSuccessisaluxurybloggercumvloggerwholivesthestuff.Say hi to COUTURE FASHION Would you ever buy that one striking outfit and wear it in 50 different ways? We know you will once you see these glorious Made in Ghana fabrics and designs. COUTURE CONTENTS
THE GENTLEMAN 46 A look inside the black and white world of Dr. Ezekiel Mutua, EBS, that makes Kenyans see red. 54HISTORYEarlyAfrican Heritage 58BEAUTYFashionsForTheLove of Cocoa Skin 62 Transition From One Natural Hairstyle To Another All Week 66 Makeup To Pop That Melanin PROFILE70HowtoRetire by Gina Din72CULTUREKariukiDressingUp For A Day At Havas Media 74 Winnie Odande And Her Stylist’s Life 76 The Style Evolution of Mike Makori 78 Bring The Outdoors Indoors 82 Tech Made in Africa For Africa 86CONVERSATIONSJustWhenYouThought You Understood Your Periods 94 LAST WORD COUTURE CONTENTS
Lintons Beauty World & Lintons Beauty College
jackline@coutureafricamag.comcarol@coutureafricamag.comEDITOR-IN-CHIEFCarolOderoSTAFFWRITERJacklineNjagiIN-HOUSEPHOTOGRAPHERKhalifaLouiekhalifa@coutureafricamag.comFASHIONSTYLISTRuthOdhiamboCONTRIBUTORSAlanDonovanGRAPHICDESIGNERAlfredMatukuMAKE-UPARTISTES
DjohnieHAIREmpire
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COUTURE CONTRIBUTORS 6 | COUTURE AFRICA
Beyond skinmatchingtone, fit skin’s texture. Now fit happens in more shades than ever!
CHAPTER THREE
described as cosmopolitan. A melting pot. A baby New York. A place without a solid ethnic vibe. Where 42 tribes all have a sense of pride with their own identities. It is a metaphor for Africa. 54 states that will not become unified any time soon. Each with its singular culture. All vibrant. All misunderstood. All agree that TIA is a phrase expressing a barely masked frustration with government. Mired in political fatigue. Such potential, never to be realised. Africa Rising is just hot air. Money comes to you only if you steal it. Nice guys die before finishing last. Only conspiracy theories make sense. Where they have to take you in when Trump kicks you out. Where Sauti Sol will live and die. Where you can look ugly and enjoy it.
THE DARKER THE BERRY THE SWEETER THE JUICE
Home is where your wifi connects automatically.Everyone
DesignsNatoAulgahGown:|CollegeBeautyLintonsfromNikkiMakeup:|MulatiRoseHair:
CHAPTER TWO
The ladies room. Minding my own business. Because why else would I be there. Another woman approaches me. Are you Kenyan? She asks? I laugh. I am Luo from Nyanza. I cannot get any more Kenyan than that, I tell her. This happens in subsequent bathrooms. For some reason I am perceived as too exotic, thanks to my experimental looks, to be Kenyan. I am baffled.
I have never struggled with the idea of being African. What I have struggled with is the idea of being Kenyan. In my mind’s eye, if I were South African or Nigerian in media and fashion, I would be much better off financially and when it comes to opportunities to grow and expand. Curiously enough I have had 3 instances that have reminded me how so very Kenyan I am.
8 | COUTURE AFRICA
A writing workshop somewhere outside of Nairobi. A debate. Who is an African writer. It becomes pedantic. I grow annoyed. Who cares? Just write the damn thing already! Years after this, this debate will be replicated, only this time it asks, who is an African fashion designer? Is it one who is born in Africa and therefore automatically an African? Is it one who writes about Africa? Is it both? Is it one who identifies as African by virtue of residence or marriage or eventual citizenship? Are some Africans more equal than others? And on that note, what, pray tell, is African fashion? Tie and dye? Kitenge? Kikoi? Khanga? Ankara? Who gets to decide? The African or the person who funds the African? I am Kenyaexhausted.isconstantly
CHAPTER ONE
Are you waiting for a positive seal to my thoughts? I honestly have none. No platitudes or soothing ‘it will be wells’ to appease your African soul. Instead, I will challenge you to introversion. Self examination. What does being African mean to you? If you haven’t thought about it, why are you hang up on being so Kenyan? What has she done for you lately? More importantly, and we both know you saw this coming, what have YOU done for HER lately? Without expectation. Without anticipating a reward. Therein lies the rub.
DEEP DARK RED
A hall in the museum. A conversation about magazines in Kenya. A crowd builds up. They start to speak up. The young millennials stand up and say they don’t understand why they do not see women like them on the cover. Why are there no naturalistas? Whatever happened to beautiful black skin? Why did the magazines not tell them who they were? It was easy enough for the Nigerians, Tanzanians, Ugandans, Rwandese. Kenya has no solid identity. Why weren’t we doing anything about that? It was the first time I got an inkling just how powerful I was considered. I am shook.
Consumer Insights , 2015 Bio-Oil ® is a specialist skincare product formulated to help improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone. Its unique formulation, which contains the breakthrough ingredient PurCellin Oil , is also highly e ective for ageing and dehydrated skin. For comprehensive product information and results of clinical trials, please visit bio-oil com. Bio-Oil is available at pharmacies and selected retailers at the recommended selling price of Kshs 695.00 (60ml). Individual results will var y
T he pro duc t mos t re commende d by do c tor s f or s c ar s & s t re tch mar k s .
“I would just like to say that I am beyond happy with the results that Bio-Oil has produced. I am a 16-year-old teenager and have been getting a lot of stretch marks, which I wasn’t very happy with. I decided to try Bio-Oil and am so glad I did, as the stretch marks have improved noticeably.”
Georgina Mutheu
New Packaging Same Formulation
10 | COUTURE AFRICA
September 25
they told their story on @ coutureafrica magazine. Makeup: @christinewanza Stylist: @olivegacharaPhotoruthodhiambostyles@ruthodhiambo@credits:@khalifa_louie
a
Chris
Thank you @coutureafrica for the amazing feature spread in September's Edition of The Power Issue. I'm totally honored and humbled. A special shout out to my good friend and amazing editor @carolodero for making the interview fun as I unpacked and shared a lot about my life much love to you girl . Thanks for shouting out The Blue Carpet Charity Gala. I see you Mr. Renaissance Man @ chrisbitti...it's been a while my friend talk
COUTURE DIGITAL
September 21
Bray Brighton OKut: While I was Coutureafricaaway,decided to write about my brains, business of fashion. Grab your copy to find out why 'he never smiles' #TAILOR001#iamjustaTAILOR
Getsoon.a copy of The Magazine from your nearest Chandarana, Naivas or other magazine stand and enjoy!
September 20 Lintons College of Beauty
September 21 Jane mukami fitness
September 25
christinewanzaItwasanamazing opportunity working on these beautiful ladies and the gentleman as
I
September 23
Olive Gachara @olivegachara Who’sMore Ready...? @KCBGroup ‘s #KCBLionsDen kicking off shortly on @KTNKenya ION: There’s always a screen grab with my hand in the air... #IWasBornReady #BeBold
#beauty
MUA @nellieawendo @khalifa_
Featured on this month's issue of @coutureafrica is our lead trainer's artistry! We are sooo in @shades_by_nikkilove #lintons
Bitti, September 26
with #KenyanCreatives on this @coutureafricacover Picsshoot.by
A dangerous kind of beauty,,,we seem to forget African Queen Warriors who also fought for African liberation,,,,, is tribute to all the female warriors.
Oh...and this happened!. A solid thank you �� �� to Coutureafrica for the feature and to Carol Odero for the beautiful words. So cool to be featured with a friend in the same issue! Yes, a big shoutout to the incredible JaneMukami Fitnesss. Get a copy of the "Power issue" from your nearest magazine stand or @ #RenaissanceManchandarana. #ChrisBitti #JaneMukami #CoutureAfrica#fitKenyanGirl#TamarindTreeHotel
sparkling_diversity Hairart by Shani Crowe Find her work @crowezilla Via @coutureafrica april2018 #diversity #inspiration #shanicrowe #coutureafrica #fashionmagazine #art #blackfashion #diversity #beauty #melanin#strength #blackwomen #blackwoman #blackgirlmagic #blackbeauty #naturalhair#braids #braidstyles #hairart #blackhair #blackhairstyles #hairmodel #hairphoto #hairphotography #blackandwhitephotography#representationmatters
this
Publicationlouie #blackwoman#blackforever#africanqueens#blackgirlmagic#africanwarrior@coutureafrica May 4 ruthodhiambo
27th ajuma_nasanyana#TBTajuma_nasanyanaSpetember enjoyed working @shotbykhalifa, Styled by @ruthodhiambo Makeup by @anroz_wn
NW
SE
14 | COUTURE AFRICA
International investment - driven by Kenyans
We all know by now, that Inchcape Kenya has taken over RMA Motors Kenya. Jaguar Land Rover is greatly looking forward to its new partnership with Inchcape PLC in the Kenyan market and believes Inchcape will be able to continue the successful business that RMA had built over the last five years as the group brings with it a wealth of automotive experience, not only in the premium segment, but also with the Jaguar and Land Rover brands in particular. With the wealth of experience the RMA Kenya team had in the local market, their focus now is on exceeding Jaguar Land Rover’s expectations and on creating a fantastic experience for Jaguar and Land Rover customers in Kenya. Inchcape’s massive experience of 93 years in the automotive field and a successful Kenyan team led by Sanjiv Shah Previously CEO of RMA Kenya and appointed CEO of Inchcape Kenya & Uganda. “We believe that our success demonstrates the value they bring to Jaguar Land Rover as its trusted partner for the full range of distribution and retail requirements in the Kenyan market,” Mr. Shah said when he spoke to COUTURE Africa.
COUTURE NEWS
Versace bought by Michael Kors - a link shared in my WhatsApp by people who thought I simply must know this. I did. It’s not the kind of news that passes you by - if you’re me that is. There was a Twitter thread made up almost entirely of GIF reactions. One asked, “Is Michael Kors even worth that much?” So it seems. The newly minted holding company that has since been renamed Capri Holdings, formerly Michael Kors Holdings, acquired Jimmy Choo back in 2017 for $1.2 billion. Why you ask? Well, because shoes. Including a menswear collection in the foreseeable future and because, bags. Also, Kors want to build a luxury conglomerate. Then there’s Jimmy Choo’s Asia market. And why the hell not? Isn’t that what LVMH comprises? Enter a $2.12 billion Versace acquisition including their debt. A price tag worth more than its valuation. There was even a moment there when an IPO was considered. Still, here, again, are plans to expand into both men’s and women’s footwear, remember Jimmy Choo?and accessories, add about 100 more outlets to the existing 200, and build their e-commerce. As with the shoe company, the CEO and creative director will be retained, along with the independent operations of the existing company. Versace operated at a loss from the late 90s to 2011, the family sold 20% of it’s stake, and despite it’s pop culture rapport has struggled to turn a profit till last year. BoF believe Versace brings better media and real estate opportunities and experience in producing luxury apparel. I say let’s watch this space.
“I am extremely saddened by commentary that has appeared in the press and on-line over the past few days. Her Royal Highness, the Duchess of Sussex looked absolutely beautiful on her wedding day and I have the utmost admiration and respect for her. I do not think that her wedding dress was a copy of any of our designs. I have the greatest respect for Clare Waight Keller and the House of Givenchy — a huge source of inspiration to me. I wish Their Royal Highnesses, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex a wonderful, happy and love filled life together.”
Is Moschino a Copycat?
Capri Holdings goes Italian
It really is not uncommon for young designers to find themselves battling more known or established designers for stealing their designers. Instagram tends to be the culprit, or rather conduit. It happens all the time with Zara. In May when the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, wedded Prince Harry in a Givenchy couture gown, a story broke that Emilia Wickstead has called the dress a rip off and ‘identical’ to one of her own. She latter said,
This time it was Jeremy Scott, head designer, Moschino being called out by Edda Gimnes, a London-based Norwegian designer. She accused Scott of taking ‘uncredited inspiration’ from her Spring 2016 and Spring 2017 collections for his Spring 2019 collection. Gimnes then adds that she met someone from Moschino’s team, who she did not name, and showed them everything; from her sketchbooks to her ideas. Moschino has in the past been sued twice over the same. Edda is an award winning rising star making lists as a designer to watch, who has dressed Lady Gaga. She favours fun, quirky illustrations. Moschino’s response to all this was that no one met Edda and also;
“Trompe-l'œil has been a long standing motif embedded in the Moschino DNA. Jeremy Scott’s eponymous line has also depicted sketches and doodles in collections far pre-dating this one. He continues to pay homage to Franco Moschino and was inspired by the conceptualization of a designer’s ideas coming to life on the runway in “incomplete forms” ranging from the sketching and design process to the tailoring, pinning and bolts of fabric choices draped on model forms. This collection was Jeremy’s love letter to fashion and it his and the brand’s greatest wish that it inspires future generations of young creatives to color our world with their dreams too." Here they are side by side. What do you think?
COUTURE NEWS COUTURE AFRICA | 15
At the end of September 2018 was the grandiose finale of 18th International Children's Festival of Culture, Fashion and Arts "Little Miss & Little Mister United World 2018" that had been held between September 24th and 30th. Held in Greece, the international festival saw 12-year Tyra Angel bag the "Little Miss United World 2018 Grand Prix" title. She was donned with a golden crown for her exemplary performance at the fashion competition. Tyra was also awarded 500 Euros (Ksh 58,500) for scooping the main title at the cultural event. Themed “Smile to the World”, the international Festival was incomparably competitive with 47 participants from 20 countries contesting in the "International Talent", "International Model", as well as the "Golden Laurel" Olympiad of Stage Arts. The winners were then chosen in four age groups categories; "Tiny Miss/Mister: 4-6 years, Mini Miss/Mister (7-9 years), Little Miss/Mister (10-12 years) and Teen Miss/Mister (13-17 years). Back in 2017, Tyra Angel won Little Miss Kenya before proceeding to the international platform. Congratulations Little Miss World.
The African Fashion International (AFI) Joburg Fashion week 2018 is a thrilling fashion and cultural fusion running in October, 4th-7th. Themed #AfroAsia, AFI Joburg Fashion Week 2018 promises to be an exciting extravaganza of designers. The show will showcase the best of African fashion and bring their own flair into how they wear their brands and celebrate Africa’s design heritage, especially its fabrics with a sprinkle of Asian flavor. The show is slated to show alongside fashion design stars from across Africa, from Nigeria’s Deola Sagoe and Clan to renowned South African designers such as Laduma, David Tlale and Gavin Rajah who will create a glorious fashion melting-pot with Asian designers from China, Cambodia, and Japan. This is in an effort to enhance exposure of African designers on international fashion platforms and industries. AFI has also forged a partnership with Tokyo Fashion Week, and through this, a designer showing at AFI Joburg Fashion Week 2018 will receive an opportunity and potentially career-changing prize. The designer will then showcase his or her work at the next Tokyo Fashion Week in Japan.
COUTURE NEWS | FASHION
Each year, the Kenya Fashion Awards (KFA) seeks to present something new and exciting in its pursuit to create new opportunities for players within the fashion industry. This year, in collaboration with Kioko Art Gallery, the Kenya Fashion Awards launched their first edition of “Fashion meets Art” Exhibition at the Kioko Art Gallery in Lavington. This is in a bid to celebrate the symbiotic relationship between Art and fashion which is a great step towards creating new opportunities for the creative industry players through highlighting their work, networking and tapping into new markets. The fashion designers and creative professionals will run a two weeks exhibition to present their creative works on the subjects of fashion and art. The initiative also seeks to recognize that the creative works attracts tourists from different parts of the world. The exhibition launch was largely attended by the Creative Industry Stakeholders, Corporate Entities, Directors – Kenya Fashion Awards & Kioko Art Gallery, Fashion and Art Icons as well as the Cultural and Business Community. The exhibition has been running from the 27th of September and will close on 14th of October this month.
16 | COUTURE AFRICA
Tyra Angel wins Little Miss World
Fashion meets Arts Exhibition 2018
Africa Meets Asia
Happy Vulva Happy Woman?
18 | COUTURE AFRICA
When your product says hypoallergenic, do you ever wonder what it has to go through to get that label? It takes an actual guinea pig. Or rabbit eyes to confirm a beauty product is safe for humans to use. You might think, who cares? You might just have to. California is taking a major stand against beauty brands that test on animals. They are the first state to ban sale of animal-tested cosmetics, and we are here for it. The state made it illegal to sell beauty products harming animals from makeup to deodorants. According to their CrueltyFree Cosmetics Act, manufacturers are prohibited from “importing for profit, selling, or offering for sale,” any cosmetic product developed by using an animal test. Violation leads to a $5,000 fine with an additional $1,000 per day till it stops. It goes into effect Jan 1, 2020. Most tests, say www. humanesociety.org, expose animals fatally on account to tests over skin and eye irritants and toxicity evaluations. A majority are killed when tests are complete. While California is the first state in the US, the European Union, India and Israel already took measures. Do you want to test your product? Check www.crueltyfreekitty.com’s list of 30 formidable and very surprising brands yet to go cruelty-free.
AfroPop singer/songwriter Victoria Kimani has landed a major endorsement with Maybelline, New York. The style, hair and now beauty icon was picked, rightfully so and in perfect time, we insist, as brand ambassador for world’s leading cosmetic brand. It makes her the very first Kenyan, and African, female artist to collaborate with a brand that is over 100 years in the making. Talk about Black Girl Magic! Victoria was naturally excited to announce the lucrative partnership deal, thanking Maybelline for the opportunity and the honour. She explained what we already know and love her for: her love for makeup. Her bold, exciting and sexy looks is definitely a big reason why Maybelline singled her out. She now joins Gigi Hadid and Jourdan Dunn as fellow brand ambassadors. Because the subsidiary of L’Oréal also think maybe she’s born with it.
Bring on the Ban!
Riri’s Uncuffed
COUTURE NEWS | BEAUTY
A year ago in September 2017, The Fenty 40 aka one of TIME Magazine's best inventions of 2017, broke the Internet, and it is not just WOC who know this now. When Rihanna created her own makeup line she shattered myths about colour cosmetics, opening up conversation on diversity and inclusive model casting. Of course being RiRi, nothing was done in half measures. She sliced past the hyper-sexualised advertising in the beauty industry by turning it into an all-women are invited out and out party. Looks like she saved the heat for her SAVAGE x Fenty. Now, once again, she proved there is nothing typical about Fenty Beauty. The pop diva outdid herself by treating us to not one new lip paint, but two. Uncuffed and Unveil add to the Fenty Beauty family the ultimate universal shade of brown suited to all skin tones. With a 90s touch, Uncuffed is a matte mauve while Unveil is a rich chocolate brown matte. She is barely giving us time to catch up with the mystical Flyliner. With this flow, we're guessing RiRi's got a few more drops up her sleeve. And we are now back to begging the Diaspora for hits.
Have we officially hit peak preposterous! Picture this - legs akimbo with a big ol’ sheet mask slathered around your intimates. And no, this is not your standard sheet mask – this is an activated charcoal mask dedicated to ‘detoxing and soothing the vulva’ - because that is what the externalities of your nether regions are called, not vagina, which is way more internal, that looks like an inverted pair of lace Playboy Bunny ears. The BlackOut Mask by TWO L(I)PS, a new luxury skincare range, is the first ever vulva sheet mask rewriting the history of how a woman’s most delicate part is seen. It fits over her pelvic region, down to the labia and inner thighs. It then detoxifies, brightens, soothes and moisturises with the help of infrared activated charcoal to boost lymphatic drainage. This is the brainchild of entrepreneur Cynthia Chua, the woman behind the world-class hair removal destination, Ministry of Waxing. Cynthia, or should we call her Cindy at this point, has been breaking down-there taboos long before anyone came along with her witty straighttalking branding around all things south. We recommend it for women who love full Brazilians.
BOOM! Victoria Kimani Going All The Way
Television Tinga Tinga-tastic Time
Music
Major Lazic Afrobeats
COUTURE NEWS | CULTURE
American electronic dance music group Diplo, Walshy Fire and DJs Jillionaire aka Major Lazer are known for their spectacular dancehall and reggaeinspired rhythms. The trio just dropped a 17-track Afrobeats mixtape. The mix features a handful of collaborations of music selections from Africa and we can’t keep calm. In the mixtape, the baddest crew blends music from across the continent and lends their global platform to trendsetting African artists and their longtime inspirations and collaborators. It’s a party vibe from beginning to end showcasing Afro house rhythms, hip-hop influence, backyard BBQ beats and everything in between. One of its gems is All My Life, a collaboration with Nigerian artist Burna Boy directed by South African filmmaker Adriaan Louw. Artists featured include Sauti Sol’s Live And Die in Afrika, Davido’s If, Skales’s Fire Waist and One Leg Up and Niniola’s Sicker. Major Lazer has been touring Africa from September through to October, with dates in Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia, Uganda and Malawi’s Lake of Stars Festival. EDM.com reports 2019 will make for their final album. News confirmed by Diplo himself. The trio, while here, are working with VETPAW (Veterans Empowered to Protect African Wildlife) to combat poaching. Do you think the First Lady would be interested in throwing an elephantine after cum wrap party….?
20 | COUTURE AFRICA
The animation that introduced us to a cast of familiar wildlife characters years ago is back! We are talking Tinga Tinga Tales – The Musical. The musical troupe is on its history making way to Broadway, New York, this October. It runs for two weeks from 13th to the 21st at the New Victory Theatre. The TV series is an adaptation of the Kenyan-British children’s animation classic Tinga Tinga Tales: African folklore, storytelling and live music. It stars established thespians such as Eric Wainaina, Eddie Kimani, Atemi Oyungu, Iddi Ochieng, John Sibi-Okumu and Elsaphan Njora. The cast is backed by a talented band comprising Tetu Shani, Ted Mwangi, Victor Kimetto and Benjamin Kabaseke. Theatre lovers caught the musical in September at Kenya National Theatre, two years after its Nairobi debut. The brain behind Tinga is multi-award winning director, creator, and writer, Claudia Lloyd. The musical has earned global following in 27 countries.
nominated Black Panther Queen and all-round Goddess Angela Bassett is trying her hand at art curation. She teams up with artist Chelle Barbour in her first solo exhibition of AfroSurrealist collages. Themed You is Pretty! the art is a photo montage series exploring media portrayals of African-American women. Barbour uses Angela as her muse, naturally, to illustrate the black women who have been sourced from books and magazines, then re-assembled as almost mythical beings that transcend the devalued representations historically broadcast in our culture and media. The images depict alluring, confident and regal women whose mystique envelops and draws us in while at the same time, disrupting the idea of black women as unattractive, threatening, and lacking economic value. The exhibition has been showing at Los Angeles’ Band of Vices Gallery from September 15th through to October 13th.
The All Powerful Shuri Made by Nigeria
Art
way to Africa. The TV streaming service recently acquired the world rights to a Nigerian film, Lionheart, making it the first Netflix Original from the country. Written and directed by Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji, the movie has made history for both Nigeria and Nollywood, the second largest movie industry in the world behind India’s Bollywood. The film, produced by T.E.N. – The Entertainment Network, marks the directorial debut for the veteran actress. The trailer promises drama, comedy and excellent cinematography. The movie captures the challenges of a woman in a male-dominated industry by following the lives of an Igbo family in the transport business. It stars Nnaji as the lead alongside Nkem Owoh, Pete Edochie, and Onyeka Onwenu. Lionheart premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Canada. Nnaji made her debut into the world of film in 2015 as a producer in Road to Yesterday, a huge success that raked in 30 million naira at the box office.
The Inimitable Angela Bassett Meets The Afro Academy-AwardSurreal
COUTURE AFRICA | 21
Film Nigeria’s first “Netflix NetflixOriginal”ismaking
COUTURE NEWS | CULTURE
2018 has definitely proven to be the year of the Black Panther. Now there is even better reason to be excited. Shuri, the most brilliant mind in the entire Marvel Universe bar none, is about to be Wakandas’ superhero. MCU has finally acknowledged bowed down to the awesomeness that is women, and will be giving the fiercely-intelligent, headstrong tech genius Shuri her own comic book spin-off series. The storyline will focus on what happens to her following the discovery that T’Challa has gotten lost during a mission in space - fan theories toyed with Shuri’s rise as one following the ending of Part 1, Avengers: Infinity War. The fate of Shuri has not been a secret to MCU fans since she stepped out in May 2005. Still, the comic book aptly called Shuri, presents the beautiful complexities of the ambitious and complex nature of the princess turned warrior. The best part; Marvel has recruited Nigerian-American award-winning Afrofuturist author, Nnedi Okorafor to write the series. About Nnedi. Her novel has been optioned by HBO. Who brought you GoT. Written by George R. R. Martin. Who will executive produce her post-apocalyptic African book Who Fears Death. Shuri will be released October 17. We know it will be epic. And that there will be Shuri, the movie. Because Marvel know better.
Books
OCTOBER 2018 EVENTS
Venue: The Alchemist
20th October to 21st October
Come hungry. With restaurants, artisans, food crafts, wines, caterers, mixologist, liqueur and liquor brands all sharing a platform, Kula Kula Festival is one foodies can’t afford to miss. Everyone will serve taster size plates. The Farmer’s Markets will have stuff to taste, buy and take home. You don’t have to leave your little ones home. There’s a playground to keep your babies busy.
22 | COUTURE AFRICA
NAIROBAE! This is gonna be epic! The biggest rave you have ever seen. The level of LIT this event is gonna reach is legendary. Kenya Nights & Tuborg Open presents, for the first time in Kenya, Major Lazer Sound System. Yes, that’s right; Diplo, Walshy Fire and The Jillionaire all together to give you the show of a lifetime. DJs, dancing and probably lots of drinks to choose from? Hello. Early bird tickets are already sold out for this monster event. Grab one ticket from the remaining one at mooch.com
Venue: The Carnivore grounds
5th October – 6th October
COUTURE NEWS | EVENTS
Sometimes the best nights are when you can sing and dance silly and just forget your troubles. The music weekender is one of the biggest music extravaganza we have this year. Presented by African speakers and Artists, the #musicweekender kicks off with a free entry featuring Tetu Shani, Miss Katu and DeeJay Kace. Award winning artist, Vanessa Mdee will also headline the entertainment line-up for the first time in Nairobi. Cash Madame hitmaker will be performing hits from her recently released debut album 'Money Mondays' with an extensive 18-song track list. There will be other acts on stage including Kidum, Alpha Blondy and Lucky Dube.
Music Weekender
Major Lazer Sound System
October 6 – October 7
Date: October 13
There is a lot going on in this wonderful metropolis of ours. From killer pop ups to street fairs and other fun festivals, there is no shortage of activities to explore. And we know you don’t want a severe case of FOMO so here you go.
In an effort to promote awareness in Biodiversity and conservation of endangered species through Art, ArtFest is back for its fourth edition with an amazing line-up of creative and innovative activities. Come explore the rich variety of artworks that adorn the Park, inspiring a spirit of creativity and cultural adventure. Showcasing music, fashion, photography, literature, visual arts, crafts, digital arts, performing art and so much more, ArtFest is a vibrant celebration of the whole artistic spectrum. There will also be entertainment, game drive, safari walk, kids’ corner and different cuisines to complement the art exhibitors, creating a sensory filled with holiday experience.
Kula Kula festival
ArtFest – Art in the Wild! (4th Edition)
Venue: The Elephant
Location: Kenya Wildlife ServiceHeadquarters
Who: Anyone who takes the business of fashion seriously
This year’s Origin Africa 2018 for the African Cotton, Textile, Apparel & Fashion Industries (ACTIF) was held alongside the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) Conference where the leading experts in textile, fibre and apparel were in town. OA was a showcase of African products intended to buyers to source from the continent. There were talks about changing political and technology landscapes, regional trade and connections between buyers and investors
When: SEPTEMBER 9 2018
Where: Nairobi National Park
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ORIGIN AFRICA 2018 OPENING CEREMONY
6 COUTURE EVENTS 97 108 1. Backstage. 2.Models getting ready for the show 3.Yuan Qing and Cui Hang 4. Models getting ready for the show 5. Mwaniki Mageria 6. L to R Sati Bedi, Suki Lakilma and Taj Bedi 7. L to R Jeff Elder, Linda Crouse and Enrique Crouse 8. Nadia Mwangi with Mwaniki Mageria 9. Akinyo Odongo Kenya 10. Rialto Fashions COUTURE AFRICA | 25
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DREADLOCKS AFFAIR
Who: Stylists, locticians, hair lovers
Where: Michael Joseph Centre
When: SEPTEMBER 25 2018
If you have been thinking about getting locked but have been hesitant, we encourage you to check out the Dreadlocks Affair Facebook page. Featuring some of the best locticians in this and other cities, with specialists from Uganda, Tanzania and the US, the search for the best loctician has been one heck of a long road show. Featuring the laid back Dgonnie Empire team of superstylists whose work have graced COUTURE’s pages the past year, the Dreadlocks Affair was not just a competition. It was one big group huddle by the loc community from stylists, products to conversations. Stop wondering and dip your toe into the wax.
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1. Dennis wa Gladys 2.Djhonnie 3. Dorcas Mwende Liz Nyambura 4. Paul Kiarie Priscilla Wangari 5.L to R, Dennis wa Gladys, Kirigo Kabugu, Gladys Chania , Iruro Juro 6. L to R, Saul Juma, Djohnnie, Dennis wa Gladys, Corrine Muthoni 7. Madam Gladys Chania 8. Rachael Wanjiru Ngugi
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Geles and headwraps are things we saw mum wear. Until the Naturalista community revisited it, then it just took off. Head wrap stopped being the thing between a woman and a bad hair day and became the glam thing that we now do with our hair - and heads. So much so we really think it’s time women embrace their flamboyant African selves and cruise into events. We invited The headwrap Queen to do her thing. Next time you have a wedding invite or a red carpet, dazzle with these royal looks.
OwnStylist’sJewelry:|Kenya.HeadwrapsKeseriKeseri,MarynebyAfrikeseri_KollectionHeadwraps:
Model: Kavata Mercy Grace Makeup Artist: Christine Wanza from Lintons College of Beauty WHO: Round face shape with dark skin tone.
JewelRoyalThe
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RAISE YOUR HEAD GAME
Model: Robi Chacha
Makeup Artist: Gift Kwetto from Lintons of College of Beauty WHO: Oval or triangular faces.
Royal T
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Model: Kavata Mercy Makeup Artist: Christine Wanza from Lintons College of Beauty WHO: Suits every face shape.
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COUTURE ACCESORIES
To achieve the full on regal look, the headwraps need to be made out of cotton or kitenge fabric.
BECAUSE WE’RE SO EXTRA:
Model: Robi Chacha Makeup Artist: Gift Kwetto from Lintons of College of Beauty WHO: For an oval or round face.
Here is a secret to headwraps no one will tell you. Star aligne which is why sometimes struggle as you do, you can’t replicate yesterday’s look.
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COUTURE ACCESORIES
DistinctRoyalKnot
If you don’t have big hair, be crafty and layer the inside of your headwrap with extra fabric for bulk.
Just because someone looks great in a headwrap does not mean you can imitate it. Different face shapes and skin tones look different with headwrap styles.
COUTURE CELEBRITY
The phrase ‘saucy minx’ applies so perfectly to Sonal Maherali. She has the fierce, sweet independence we associate with being your own woman and the gooey, liquifying melting point of a blissfully married woman and mother. Her Instagram overflows with powerfully sexy images - powerful because she is a mother of four who posts images of herself in a bikini without any inkling of a wallflower. Or when she posed in nothing but her thigh high Loubs and a pair of black vintage panties and earned herself a thread of naysayers. Or the time when she showed up for a shoot at our house with a drop of her jaw dropping closet. As women we are always told, ‘do you,’ ‘be yourself,’ ‘go get.’ Well, she is the woman who lives those posts. It might help explain why her very young self named YouTube channel already has over 43,000 subscribers a year in. It isn’t her lovingly and carefully curated wardrobe, which trust me, is more than Hermes and Loubs-worthy that makes Sonal intriguing. It is her ease with luxury. She makes it seem quite accessible. And in case you were wondering, she makes money off he vlog and blog because it is full time and a career.
THE LUXURY OF A WORK ETHIC
By Carol SONALOderoMAHERALI,
38. AWARD WINNING LUXURY VLOGGER & BLOGGER, WIFE, MOTHER.
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SM:I only buy what I love. I never buy what I don’t want and feel no need to be pressured by ever evolving fashion or style trends. I read a lot on fashion and watch major fashion week runways. This inspires my purchases.
CA: What made you choose this?
Sonal Maherali: What is your definition of luxury?
SM: Yes. Why not. Kenyans love luxury as much as they hate to admit it. We are a luxury destination aren’t we? Our wide coastal beaches, our national heritage, national parks. Luxury is slowly entering Kenya with all the luxury cosmetics now available right here.
SM: I describe it as free. I am a body positive advocate and I allow myself to love myself freely and exercise that freedom with myself. I treat my body as mine, to choose how I want to express it. I seek no validation from others. I believe in LET SHE BE SHE.
CA: How did your meeting with Christian Louboutin come about? What did you talk about? What did you do? Where did you do? What did you see? Did you get a pair of bespoke autographed red bottoms? Tell me everything!
SM: - Our oldest son Aum is a very quiet young man who prefers and smaller crowds. I think he gets that from me.
SM: Everyone knows I love Mr. Louboutin including the Mr. himself, and have been collecting his shoes for years. The Louboutin Team invited me to London for his 17 Mount Street shoe special opening last year. It was an absolute honour. They often invite their special guests to all their events globally. I was also recently invited to their new store at Selfridges and the Grand Decorator Launch at Mount Street, London, in August this year. Christian and I talked at length about shoes and all things red bottom. He saw my closet pictures and was shocked I was such a huge fan. We spoke about opening a shoe store in Africa. As in I questioned him on it and he seemed optimistic that he may in the future. He spent almost 15 minutes with me. I was the only Kenyan present. I felt very proud of that moment. He signed not one, not two, but three items from his collection for me. He is currently making me a personalised bespoke pair from keepsakes I have sent to his team in Paris.
SM: I always loved fashion and shoes. I realised a long time ago I wanted to do this but only just recently started to realise my own potential. I saw a clear lack of luxury content locally, saw the gap and filled it.
CA: How has marriage made you a better woman?
CA: Bikini shoots speak to a solid relationship with your body. Would you describe it the same way?
CA: Walk me through a collaboration with a brand you have worked with.
SM: Everyone. Who doesn’t like luxury? Although a niche market, I strongly believe Africa is capable, therefore one can enter the market with affordable luxury by still maintaining quality even when making it affordable to the masses.
CA: How did you get successful so fast in such a short while as a vlogger and Instagrammer?
SM: I choose to show the world what I want to share with them and keep private what I do not need to share. I run two social media accounts. One is my brand and the other is personal.
SM:I wouldn’t call it fast. I started blogging 7 years ago documenting my personal style and my love for good shoes. I later progressed to sharing on my other social platforms. The digital world has grown in the last decade. A time came when I decided I wanted more. I wanted to reach people far and wide, globally, so I started my YouTube channel about a year and half ago. To my surprise the audience has loved my content and appreciates luxury coming out of Kenya via YouTube.
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CA: You must have had run ins with disagreeable elements...
SM: That comes with the territory. I was once told it's better to be talked about than not to be talked about. I do what I do for myself so it doesn’t bother me what others may or may not think. The opinions of these elements are irrelevant. Having said that, I ignore them and continue my own journey. When you can ignore ignorance and neglect negativity, then it doesn’t matter what they say.
SM:: I wanted to share my own journey with depression and anxiety. I want people to know it exists. It is important to look after your mental health as much as you do your physical health. Depression is a disease. I want to break the stigma attached to talking about mental health issues where this kind of conversation seems hypocritical as its ok to whiten ou. It should be as natural as taking about how to whiten the teeth.
CA: Is this something Kenyans are ready for?
CA: What would you say has made your marriage yummy? I hate the word successful because it feels so business like!
SM: Being married to Aly has made me better in many ways. He has taught me to be at my own pace in life. He has grounded and shaped me in a way many admire, be it being pleasant or being diplomatic. He has taught me to let go of what is not in my control. Being an introvert, he has helped me immensely in being comfortable in the midst of people. Most importantly, he has taught me to believe in myself.
Alyssia, 6, is sports-oriented child and a tomboy, competitive and strong headed.
Little Eliyah just turned three and is the joy of the home. A child who loves to laugh and make merry.
Our daughter Annalise, 8, is very sweet girl who loves to chat, is social and very artistic.
CA: You are rather famous for your physical appearance. Do you ever have concerns about aging?
CA: How would you describe your children’s personalities?
SM: I feel beautiful everyday. It is a choice you make. Of course adding a nice outfit and shoes make your appearance more vibrant. But beauty truly comes from the inside. My children make me feel alive. Their laughter and smiles fill my life with beauty.
SM: I am not concerned about growing old. I am actually excited to grow old gracefully. Many people confuse my appearance for that of a 28 year old, which I do think is nice. I do look after myself but we all grow old and that is the circle of life which I embrace.
COUTURE Africa: To me luxury means exclusiveness, a certain uniqueness. Some still confuse this to a status, a level of standing apart and out but to me luxury is everything you want it to be. It's a craftsmanship. It’s a meal that delights taste buds. It’s travel and lifestyle. It’s a service that says ‘wow.’ A garment, bag or shoes that are quality and scream luxury. Luxury is an attitude and an elegance.
CA: Designer labels would be nice to have. But how do you shop?
SM: This might surprise you, but I haven’t collaborated with any brands yet. I have been a guest to many luxury brand launches in Nairobi. I focus on transparency so that means I will only work with the brands that I love. I am not in hurry to collaborate. When I do, it will be because I want to and love the brand I would work with.
CA: You recently renewed vows with your husband. Let’s start from the beginning. How did you meet? When did you know he was the man you wanted to spend your life with?
CA: What makes you feel vibrant and alive?
CA: Just recently you posted a video on mental health. What triggered it?
SM: A marriage is is a special union of two people who come together to better each other. My marriage has thrived because we’re not just husband and wife. We are much more than that. Aly is my best friend. He fits easily into any role for me and I for him. We also have a deep understanding for and of each other, clear communication and unconditional love and support.
CA: Who is most likely to want a slice of luxe and why?
CA: We just renewed our 10 year anniversary vows in Vegas. It was a most beautiful ceremony to celebrate our undying love for each other. We met when he first came to Kenya from the UK in 2000. We dated briefly, separated for two years only to find each other again. Now we have four beautiful children together. I knew he was the one when he didn’t take away from me but only added to me. That is a beautiful quality and one that is very special to me. To let a person be as they are and only add to them.
CA: Where do you draw your boundaries?
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SM: Yes of course. All of it.
SM: People watching and exploring new cities and their culture.
CA: Lawd! Lucky you! Which brings us to self care, quite the hot topic these days. What do you consider that to be?
SM: Self care is looking after everything that makes a person. Not just in terms of hygiene or physical and even mental health. Self care to me is much deeper than that. Self care is the ability to identify things within ourselves which we subconsciously ignore. Like loving others and ourselves, spreading that love and light, looking within to remove all ego, hatred and negativity. Being a good human being is just as important too.
CA: What’s good about travel?
CA: One last thing. Would you ever open a concept store?
SM: I would say that I am a good traveller and a very organised one too. I recommend that you relax and wear comfortable clothing especially on long haul flights. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid sugar while in the air. Eat healthy and do not drink alcohol in plenty. That dehydrates the body. It takes the body time to adjust its clock so reset your circadian rhythm and beat jet lag by staying up and sleeping at your usual hour.
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CA: What are the secrets to good travelling? I always feel off kilter in a new place.
SM: Yes. I would most likely consider it. What's better than to have everything under one roof.
COUTURE CELEBRITY
CA: I just have to ask. Have you insured the gorgeous things in your care?
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HouseCOUTURETheatlocationonShot|BeautyofCollegeLintonsofKwettoGiftArtist:Makeup|OrangiShekinahModel:|LouieKhalifaPhotography:|RosebelleDiangabyDIROjewelry:All|WorldwideAfrodesiacMakonnon,ChiedzaDesigner:|OderoCarolStylist: COUTURE FASHION
Chiedza Makonnon, founder Afrodesiac Worldwide has that kind of energy that seems to get amped up as the sun grows darker. Charged, vibrant, a storyteller, her collection is whip smart like her brand, Afrodesiac. It is a collection of print fabrics from Ghana that are made into dresses and jumpsuits. In fact, she is legend for her jumpsuits which at a glance seem identical. Until the model puts it on. Then the jumpsuit become something of an origami inspiration. There are so many ways to wrap what anyone else would consider dangling fabric that nothing looks the same on the runway as it does on her website and later on Shekinah, who Chiedza fell in love with. Yes, that is why there is a dress named after her. I just thought it was important for you to know this going in lest you think your jumpsuit looks same-same. You know why it won’t? Every item fits a size 0 to a size 20 and has so much individuality it comes with a video showing you about 50 different ways to wrap this gift around yourself.
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LET THECOUNTMEWAYS
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IssabyPhotography
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CA: No they are not!
an expert in any of these. I am more into policy. My masters and PhD were both in communication studies. Our conversation here can open a new chapter. I see the nexus we need to create between fashion and film. The linkage between money and business was not addressed because we were not aware. We were not looking at the other side of fashion that pushed Lupita’s career and what that represented. When we see the connectivity, it will grow.
CA: Film and fashion promote each other on the red carpet. Take Lupita’s career. It was very strategically developed on the red carpet. She built her reputation and her brand and in fact ended up with high value endorsements. As a result, she can pick and choose which projects she wants to work on without the rush of getting into the first role that comes her way for money. She gets to be an artist because of fashion.
CA: Endorsements allow female actors to stay in circulation, earn and gives women a breather as they grow older and roles become fewer. It is a critical step.
CA: Does the red carpet play a role in Kenya?
EM: You know what you have just said, those are my words exactly.
CA: How do we compare to Naija and Mzansi?
EM: Luckily we are doing this after the awards. It helps because what we are trying to do is create conversation. I am so glad you are picking up the fashion conversation with the right people. We don’t have all the resources and sometimes along the way it looked very improbable. I believe next year we can incorporate fashion.
By Carol Odero
THE SCIENCE CONSERVATIONOF
EM: Could I turn that question over to you? Let me get a sense since you are the expert. What is the essence of a red carpet?
EM: That is why I said your thoughts are mine. Those are things I want to see. From a policy perspective there is zero commitment. Then again Hollywood was built by the private sector, not the government. When I attended AMVCA in Nigeria, you could see the connection you talk about.
EM: In terms of film locations we have some of the best. Our films have been nominated for Oscars. Judy Kibinge and Wanuri are in the jury of the Academy. Our high speed internet, and tech is an enabler. There’s mobile telephony, digital migration, moving into 5G, over 100 active TV stations and tech innovations, all exposing us to the world. We might not have the advantages of SA or Nigeria. Blindfold someone, drop them in Naija, they will know where they are. SA have an identity too, with great policies like tax rebates, compensation of filmmakers and people wanting to film there. We lack the culture of patriotism and culturism here. Despite President Uhuru Kenyatta’s policies in 2009 as finance minister, there was nothing to show for it. KRA saw no statistics. The incentives never had a turnover. What these awards tell us is how many films are coming out of Kenya. SA and Nigeria are also very strict about copyright and respect intellectual property. We have one of the best constitutions in the world yet until we learn to respect each other’s work, eat from the sweat of your brow and be proud of what is created, the sector will not grow. This is why I talk about morals. It is not possible to legislate on morality. It must be within the hearts of people to respect what others build so one can make money out of what they build. In SA and Nigeria they just create. Here, we are specialists in whining with pull
COUTURE GENTLEMAN
He calls himself a liberal with conservative tendencies. And I had questions. A lot of them. In fact, let’s just dive right into the chat with the 51 year old CEO of Kenya Film & Classification Board, Dr. Ezekiel Mutua, the man who irks KOT and the liberal creative community and a Kenyan or two who want him to drop dead.
EM: We delayed the event because of the red carpet so people wanting to show off their dress could. There was even a theme, a dress code. Fashion and film intertwine so well that we could afford to delay the main event and let people have their time. It is only that I do not have the technical language you have. Next time there will be a meeting point and we will use experts like yourself. I have had brushes with film and law but I would not consider myself
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CA: More of a curiosity. I noticed there is a category for Best Production Design but none for Best Costume Design. Fashion plays a critical part in storytelling. Even traditionally, hair, makeup and costumes were a point of pride in any narrative. There is a chasm between film and fashion. What gives?
Ezekiel Mutua: We work with the Riverwood Ensemble and they are made up of a panel of experts. They select the people and categories. Our role as KFCB is to make sure there is integrity in the entire judging process. Did you have an issue with criteria?
COUTURE Africa: I was a member of the Riverwood Academy Awards jury in 2018. It was quite an honour. I do wonder though, what is your criteria for listing categories?
them down mentality. Here is another truth. Lupita is making it big because she is not here.
EM: That is the basis of our problem! We don’t have a value system. If we could only think, I will not pirate but promote, because the same will happen to me, this would be a different conversation.
CA: Aha! There it is! That will drive him into the closet.
and reply. Sometimes I educate. Sometimes I block. CA: I’ll let you in on secret. Do you know what people say about you? Anyone who is that conservative in public must be a pervert in private.
CA: What about the law of individualism?
ME: There is no such law. What we have is democracy that gives me power. Our legislation is brilliant with a process requiring public participation. The problem is not our MPs and people like me can only enforce. Kenyans are so litigious if we were doing something wrong we would have been sued. You can maintain your extreme liberalism, and someone else their extreme conservatism, but where is the middle ground. No one has a right to undermine homosexuals. But because of Kenyans’ perspective, don’t bring it into the public space. If four people experience conflict, and three of them agree, the government will go with the three because they are majority. Did you know we regulate religion? Preach, but do not attack another religion. The moment you preach against someone else’s faith, we will ban it.
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My wife runs our home and she is the bedrock of our family. We graduated together. She got her masters first then started her PhD 15 years ahead of me, acquired skills I couldn’t see. She makes our financial decisions. A globe trotter who has worked with the UN for 15 years. Our home would not be what it is without Jane. I would not be what I am without her. The place of women need projecting in the right way, not promoting them as sex objects, a narrative that brings them down with the debilitating, shaming behaviour of Christian Grey. We are sending girls the wrong message. They are better than that. You and I are a product between a woman and a man. We must subscribe to some grounding. Embracing other cultures in the name of freedom of expression, is lying to ourselves. That is why I banned Rafiki. While I acknowledge the presence of homosexuals, that is not our way of life. We need bearing. A place we can always return to. A core. This conversation has not been understood. If it were, Ezekiel Mutua would be celebrated. Instead I wake up and see insults…
CA: What about the rule of natural law as a foundation? Say, first do no harm.
ME: What natural law? You are a lawyer and you know this. The very premise of law is that humans are bad and must be governed.
EM: We are brought up in a culture where anything goes. Media looks at socialites and sponsors, give Vera Sidika an hour of airtime but will not give it to Oliver Litondo. Media sets the wrong agenda by focusing on side shows. I hate to sound like I am criticising but if media decided to go look for creatives instead of warmongers, people who are working hard, celebrate those. That way others can see a young woman with a solid work ethic living a good life, in her own apartment, driving a good car, all out of money she makes honourably. Young girls see this. Respect will inspire someone to not get a sponsor
COUTURE GENTLEMAN
and behaviour. We need to promote family, home. A place you can go back to. Sadly in Kenya you are lucky if you make it and stay at the top for a year without a scandal.
ME: There is a process in the law. She has not exploited that. Her father came with her lawyer. He understands creatives. My 20 year old son is a creative. I know the worst thing you can do to a creative is a gag them. My son and I, we discuss things. We talk about girls. We talk about sex. I tell him if I find him with a girl, I will leave them be. But…
EM: At least there is a paradigm they come to. Creative economies worldwide pay the most now. Athletes and creatives are not necessarily PhD holders yet they earn millions of dollars. We must stop demonising Ezekiel Mutua. We just need more like me. Life is about a cause, not about money. You can’t regulate in a vacuum. Do you know there is no link between the creative industry and the Big 4. We are the ones struggling to fit into it yet this is the best platform to create jobs for the youth. Films and the media must speak about our stories. Art is about the value of a people. Kenya has a good name in the global community. But we lack a rallying point. I tend to think the creative industry will be that point. I have no idea how. It might not even happen in my lifetime. But this is where people will come and talk about our values instead of foreign content
ME: He will tell me. Our relationship is very open and he has told me not to have expectations over who and when he will marry.
CA: I was about to ask about the worst tweets you ever got.
CA: Don’t you think we have enough sense to draw the line?
CA: What is the role of women in film as producers, directors, and storytellers? Women’s voices are increasingly getting heard globally. Is this recognised and represented locally to the best of your knowledge?
CA: But, who died and made you God?!
EM: The role of women goes back to our culture. If we were to recognise it, our very being is built Kenyan woman as resilient. That is why I had an issue with Sauti Sol’s version of black beauty. Melanin is my mother, it’s you, a hard working, resilient woman carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders who give hope to the world. The struggle for independence was predicated on women who held up the home. The connection of the family centers on the power of a woman. My mum is 96. In my lifetime, right up to 10 years back, I witnesses up to 23 women that my dad brought home. My mum never left. I am told there were many more. When she got overwhelmed she would take a break and return. I would ask her why she stayed. She would say he was a very good man. He is now 101. I look at my mother as an emblem. We need to restore the dignity of the women but without treating her in the traditional sense where she was in the background. The modern woman with equal opportunities making a deliberate effort as a solution provider needs lifting. We are better when we recognise the position of a woman, observe how society treats them. 70% of KFCB is women. I am now struggling to tilt it.
EM: Someone wished me a stroke on my birthday! That is the product of a society that believes they are poor because you are rich. They are ugly because you are beautiful. They are failing because you are successful. I am among the richest Kenyans. I don’t have a plane or a lot of money in the bank. I don't have a bodyguard because I don't need one. I drive myself. I live a comfortable life. I don’t fear for my family. I did not steal anybody’s money or wife. These things that get CEOs in trouble; money and women. People who insult me on social media are very weird and bitter. Sometimes I go to my inbox
EM: You know what, I think it is they might be right. They got me. But not a pervert. A liberal. I am a parent and educated. I was so saved for so many years. The salvation of the village. When I got to university we got KES 5,380. From abject poverty to money and total freedom, you can imagine how I slayed. I became bad. I know myself. But I was a CU leader even then. My wife was head of bible study, I was head of missions. I doubt there are many people who have done crazy things like I have done. I have gone to the extreme. I watched Fifty Shades of Grey and Fifty Shades Darker before banning them. I know BDSM. It can’t get to us. I know because I have seen life as a practising, not armchair, journalist who covered crooks and prostitutes. I know homosexuals in the industry. The thing is we are in the world, not of the world. I will not force you into my beliefs. We have never been sued other than by Wanuri Kahiu for Rafiki for us to unban her movie. I took on EABL and won on every prayer with costs and I prosecuted the matter. I am bad. I am well educated. I am liberal.
CA: Why are you not unbanning?
EM: Children are shaped by what they see in media. If they know you can come from the slums like Bahati and grow into a responsible man, they will want to be that. I’m creating a conversation. I don't even know what I am doing. I am passionate. If I get someone who believes in what I do, they can join me. Do you know out of the top 10 Skiza tunes, 8 are gospel? Inside us, we are very conservative. I want to encourage that Kenyan who will go to a bar then play Mercy Masika on the way home. People call me the moral policeman, but there are many others. Conversation must begin so the 80% who are good can consume original content. It is easier for media to download cheap content from their countries of origin than promote local content. Media don’t think of themselves as responsible for rowing the creative industry. Everyone is thinking of business. Nigeria made an active choice to tell their own stories, then used their culture to do so. At the heart of development is a moral question. People don’t eat freedom. But if there is a foundation of right and wrong, limiting certain freedoms like Rwanda has.
CA: Land of the benevolent dictator?
CA: Why do we not have that and what happened to it?
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EM: There is this theory in communication, the magic bullet theory, that talks about the process
ME: But seriously Carol, is this your interview or mine? Are you a scholar? It is out of this deep reasoning that we can prescribe solutions to society.
CA: That is the bleakness of Thomas Hobbes!
CA: You're quite the articulate wordsmith. I hear political aspirations.
CA: Did I hear right during the Riverwood Awards in Kisumu? That you would now focus on classification instead of censorship.
I have studied a little law in my career from the head of KUJ to human rights as part of my PhD so I handle the legal issues that come up myself. I am all about the pursuit of happiness.
CA: There have been studies disagreeing with the idea that media inspired children to violence. That, or the effect is minimal.
and effect of communication. (Imagine the media has a big gun filled with content, they aim it straight at your forehead and shoot, and you are immediately and directly hit by, and affected by, whatever message it is they aimed at you). Truth is, content influences perception which shapes values. Take politicians. There are people we vote for sight unseen.
EM: What we and progressive film boards should do is not censor. That curtails freedoms. Classification is more advisory. The moment we say PG, 16, 18, it is not for us to determine who is watching. We benchmarked with SA. We are looking at open, progressive climates. In the moot subject of homosexual content we don’t want to ban or restrict. The idea now is to get to a point where we can rate and give age suitability to give the viewer a choice. That way 18 or Strictly Adults Only for instance, require a declaration of extreme violence, horror or gay themes. The main reason is to protect children from adult content when they are still impressionable and corruptible. The wrong view of life will damage them. You and me, we can watch anything. Regulation ensures content does not incite to violence or terrorism or such. Going forward, our mission is to become a world class film regulator. Our children are more exposed to foreign cultures and know Messi more than a SOFAPAKA player. Their realities are not informed by local reality. That disconnect needs to be worked on elsewhere. Not at the point of regulation.
ME: But when you undermine values, say during an episode of Citizen’s Mother in Law, and she called the her Mother in Law a witch and said, “One more word and I will smash your face!” during watershed? (Watershed is the period between 5pm to 10am).
CA: Is Raila an example of the magic bullet?
CA: I have a solution for the extreme sides. Teach children critical thinking, life skills and emotional intelligence.
EM: I really sympathise with parents. I get invited to speak with them often. CITAM and Ziwani AC this week. I understand their challenges. The influence of social media and TV on the kids is bad. Parents are busy. Sometimes my wife and I see each other at the airport. The truth is, children are shaped and influenced by far more things other than parents.
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EM: True. You notice we are not paying so much attention to TV now. They are following regulations. We do get a lot of support from the online and international community. Google bring down content immediately we get in touch. Remember Janet Jackson’s incident, Superbowl XXXVIII, 2004?
EM: People follow him and some do not even understand why. If he says burn, they burn. Some of them are very educated. Francis Atwoli is another. The tragedy of our government is that they do not value communication. Organisations that move forward have think tanks. The way our politics works, our current presidency is in power because they turned their communication messaging when negative into something positive. We can’t say communication works one way and not the other. IQ is more than books. I look at EQ as a tool for survival coming from poverty and with this instinct, see opportunities. The girl I married, I should not have married. But when my instinct kicks in, you cannot run away if I wanted you. I really think through even my personal actions as a man, a CEO. When I was in SA I noticed children were triggered into violence through media. And Playstations, children lie on the floor and go, ‘die!’
CA: But that is reality. Art is not just as you wish it but also how it is.
CA: What do you tell them to do when their 3 year olds twerk?
EM: Look. These are parents who come home drunk at night, smoke in the presence of their kids. They watch porn. They are hustling single mothers. At this point it is the work of the government to protect. To pay attention to what airs during the watershed period. To make sure the content is suitable for family viewing.
EM: In fact it is long overdue. The current Machakos governor and my namesake Alfred Mutua is very supportive. We share the same values. I will be running in the next elections definitely. But there is a lot about politics I find distasteful such as bribing for votes. I think I have achieved self actualisation. I want to do this for the wider good. I am willing to die for that cause.
CA: Studies do find that video games promote violence more than TV does.
It was nothing compared to what’s on TV. But the FCC took it very seriously. It was dealt with so viciously because the law expected them to use technology for the five second delay rule. They could have deleted it but they didn’t.
COUTURE GENTLEMAN
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CA: This is why I have a problem with all this legacy talk. You don’t know what your legacy will be. It is those who are left behind who will get to choose what your legacy is.
CA: Your children talk to you about anything and everything. How does a parent create a child who trusts them that way?
EM: Legacy is more than that. I have done three pilgrimages to Israel because I believe in the bible. The tour guides were so interesting, they told they believed Jesus was married, showing me what they believed is the path he walked to go see Mary Magdalene. I have come to learn there is no absolute truth. I tell my wife truth is not everything. There is always another side to your truth. People think I dropped down from heaven. How do people think I got my children and I am a father?
I have done 3 pilgrimages to Israel because I believe in the bible. The tour guides were so interesting, they told me about how they believed Jesus was married, including what they believe is the path he would walk to go see her. I have come to learn there is no absolute truth. I also tell my wife truth is not everything. There is always another side to your truth.
CA: How, exactly, did you start out as CEO two years back?
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EM: That is what parents are supposed to do. Make and spend time with their children, talk to them about life. Be accessible and approachable so their children can come to them with questions.
EM: I found the board as a shell with an KES 88 million budget that was exhausted. I was dismayed. I thought the first thing I would do with money was create so much publicity; the man bites dog narrative. Two weeks in I told my staff we would ban EABL. I saw them shiver. They told me the previous CEO did that. And he left. I summoned EABL directors to appear before me. Wrote the legal letters myself. They came. I took them through the classification guidelines. Told them to take their ads out of watershed or remove all together. They removed them, then hired George Oraro and sued me. Njoki Chege called me a buffoon. A 49 year old man who thinks like a 19 year old. Media came at me. Macharia Gaitho. Larry Madowo. This, as Chimamanda Adichie once said, is the danger of a single story.
EM: I see what you mean. It is more than the regulation. KFCB is struggling with the media because I talk to people who need ads and the money without taking into consideration something like morality. Our scholars need to focus more on this. Media and policy need to be embedded in research. There are no quick fixes. We have strayed so far, we are hanging on a cliff, our moral fabric is already broken. I dream of becoming president and this is what will happen. What I call the Donald Trump Effect. Where it is about values.
CA: Is it crazy to imagine kids can be taught to make good choices and to ask questions?
Photos from My Journey Through African Heritage by Alan Donovan. www.africanheritagebook.com
Right: A model alights from a black limousine at Black Expo in Chicago’s Ampitheatre, wearing gown of Ethiopian Shema Cloth. Male model in Kenyan Maridadi overalls and Wakamba beadwork. Aretha Franklin and the Jackson Five were among daily performers. Part of a nation wide tour of the USA by Alan Donovan in l97l.
Fashions
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Photo by David Beatty
Above: The Vanishing Textiles of Africa, Pan African fashion collection from African Heritage.
Early African Heritage Fashions
H COUTURE HISTORY
Early African Heritage
Left: Hollywood, California: The first gown designed for Kenya’s African Heritage Festival created of Ethiopian Shema cloth by Alan Donovan. Later versions of the gown at Maasai Lodge, above, and African Heritage House , below .
Heritage Fashions
www.africanheritagebook.com
Above Right: Former Miss World, Persis Khambatta, models a gown worn by many brides in Kenya, a low backed gown (see blue gown opposite page) trimmed with Ashanti Kente cloth.
by David Beatty
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BEA
UTY
Tip: You can use a range of highlighters such as rose gold, gold silver, warm gold and even a bronzer. We love:
HIGHLIGHT HIGHS
1.BLK/OPL Tue Colour Au Chocolat Foundation: KES 3,700
Using an angled contour brush, identify your Focushighlights.onthe area above the cheeks at the edge of your eyes, nose area and the chin. Brush lightly and widely as desired.
Team Melanin is fraught. Make-up artistes say it is perfect for highly pigmented colours. Dark skinned beauties think, ‘I’m not sure they had me in mind when they came up with strobing.’ At COUTURE we believe in all kinds of beauty being, well, gorgeous. Melanin beauties, arise!
#LoveYourMelanin
2.Maybelline Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter: KES 1,400
3.Bellàpierre Pigments [Karat Gold]: KES 3,800
COUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP
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WorldBeautyLintonsofNicoleArtist:Make-up|limitedAjumafromDengAchaiModel:
How to:
Highlighting brings out the strongest features of a sculpted face; cheekbones, nose and chin. It does this by using shimmer to reflect the light.
Strobing is the use of bronzer or highlighter to accentuate natural light when it hits the features on the face. This could be done on top of the brow, the brow bone, cheek area, Cupid bow, chin and the temples.
COUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP
STROBE ME
Using a fan brush, lightly sweep your bronzer or highlighter on areas light falls on naturally.
How to:
How about:
1. Starting with Maybelline Fit Me Poreless Foundation: KES 1,400
2. Repurposing the MAC Electric Cool Eyeshadow [Colour- Coil]: KES 2,700
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1.BLK/OPL True Colour Soft Velvet Deluxe Finishing Powder in Deep: KES 3,200
2.BH Cosmetics Studio Pro Contour Palette: KES
Contouring is an infamous beauty trend by now. It is the using of darker powder, foundations and concealers to create depth on the facial features. This is done to sculpt the cheek bones, push down the temples and reduce the size of the forehead.
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COUTURE
CONTOUR HER
How to:
Using a contour brush, pick a darker than your skin tone powder. With your contour palette brush, apply it on the cheek areas, temple and Thisforehead.willminimise exaggerated features while creating the ideal face shape. We heart:
BEAUTY | MAKE-UP
Blushing is the process of using warm colours on the cheeks to create ‘blood flowing to the face’ effect. Blushes bring a look to life, and different skin tones demand different blushers: Dark skin needs warm peachy Mediumtones. skin is lit by burgundy Lighttones.skin comes to life with soft skin peach tones
2.Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Plum Wine: KES 1,000
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3.MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour Chocotease: KES 3,200
COUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP
BLUSHY
We colour:
1.Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation: KES 4,200
Create cornrows using the flat iron technique while leave the tips open and curly. Oil the scalp and moisturise the ends. Pin up the double bun to complete the look.
2.Jamaican Roots Hot Oil Spray: KES 499
How many ways can a Naturalista work her black girl magic while pleasing the edge gods? Dgonnie came up with four exciting looks right on the spot. No one knew what to expect. Maybe even he was surprised at how many mysterious ways natural hair can move. In fact, these styles are transitional, cruising from one fabulous look and leading into another. Are you brave enough to transform your hair week?
THE DOUBLE BUN
How to:
We are rooting for:
1.Fluffy Kinky Darling Hair Extensions: KES 600
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COUTURE AFRICA | HAIR Artiste:Make-up|LimitedAjumafromMiranyiTracyModel:|ArtsHairDgonnieHair: BeautyofCollegeLintonsfromWanzaChristineFROTHEOFJOYTHE
Styling tip:
Spray the hair to add sheen Tuck-in the edges with bobby pins slightly manipulating it with a soft tug when installing the pins.
Feel free to have your side-sweep with or without a bun.
3.1,650Marini
THE SIDE-SWEEP
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How to:
2.Jamaican
Detangle hair and comb it into shingles, then balance the bun.
Tip: Keep moisturising your hair through the day to keep the style fresher for longer . We recommend trying; de Gorila Snot Gel: KES 495 Mango & Lime Castor Oil: KES Daily Spritz Moisturizer:
COUTURE AFRICA | HAIR
Lay the edges to hold hair into position.
1.Moco
COUTURE AFRICA | HAIR 1. 2.3.
THE HALF-BUN
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Styling tip: Moisturise your hair to define its curl pattern. We recommend trying: Mikala Leave-in Treatment: KES 500 Marini Daily Spritz Moisturiser: KES Eco650 Styler Moroccan Argan Oil Styling Gel: KES 750
How to: Detangle hair with a brush. Smooth the bun as you comb the tips then lay the edges.
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Create cornrows using the flat iron technique but leave the ends open and curly. Oil the scalp and moisturize the ends. Styling tip: We are a no-heat people please. Always keep your hair and moisturised.scalp
THE FLAT TWISTHowto:
We recommend a dose of: 1.Marini Curling Gel: KES 750 2.Marini Growth Oil: KES 1,200
COUTURE AFRICA | HAIR 2. 1.
More often than not, we spend a lot of time taking care of our face, hair and nails, and forget all about our skin. Despite the fact that your skin is the largest organ on your body, beautiful feeling skin does indeed make for a beautiful feeling
WORKS!!WATER
Hydrate: Drinking up to 2 litres of water daily increases the elasticity of your skin hence preventing premature ageing and keeps your skin moisturised for a radiant glow.
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Luke Warm: Extremely hot water can damage your skin’s outer most layer called Keratin. It therefore also advised to shower in warm to luke-warm water so as not to scorch and dry out your skin.
Skin, Beautiful You!
Beautifulyou.
Moisturise: Oils and body moisturisers should also be applied to slightly damp skin when your skin is still porous allowing for better absorption
COUTURE BEAUTY | BEAUTY
COUTURE BEAUTY | BEAUTY
Cocoa Butter is the real deal when it comes to skin care! It contains saturated fats which are easily absorbed into the skin and stay on for longer hence presenting the perfect answer to skin dryness. It also contains antioxidants [found in the cocoa bean] which promote skin health when applied Vitamintopically.Eonthe other hand is the superskin solution for almost any problem, but more specifically its anti-ageing properties and sun-protection benefits. Bottle these together and you have Palmers Cocoa Butter with Vitamin E! Magic in a bottle.
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CARECOCOA
Pomegranate is a super berry that makes for great tasting juice. It also has some amazing topical uses you may not be aware of:
It has ANTI-INFLAMATORY properties which reduces visible inflammation and pimples.
GREATNESSPOMEGRANATE
COUTURE BEAUTY | BEAUTY
It has ANTI-AGEING PROPERTIES because it stimulates cellular and keratinocyte cell [skin cells] regeneration for wrinkle-free younger looking skin.
This is a whole lot of goodness from one berry, and if you do not know how to use the pomegranate seeds, worry not, that’s what Dettol Even Tone with pomegranate is there for!
It protects from and heals SUN DAMAGE that is caused by oxidation of the skin due to its high level of anti-oxidants.
All that goodness plus 99.9% protection from germs that is the cornerstone of all Dettol products. An added benefit of this soap [which is great for your face too] is that it has apricot exfoliants to even out your skin as you use.
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It contains VITAMIN C which aides in rejuvenating dry dull skin, all the while smoothening out your skin.
CARESCAR
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Dr. Adan Abdullahi a Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon explains it best, “Caucasian scars are less visible but dark African skin tends to scar more severely. Hypertrophic scars are more visible but they do not go beyond 1 or 2 mm above the surface of the incision. If you are concerned about the scar, then use a product with PurCelin such as Bio Oil which will improve the appearance of the scar.”
COUTURE BEAUTY | BEAUTY
Dr. Loise Njeri Kahoro, a Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon says that scars are formed when there is injury or break in the skin and are a normal way of the body healing and the tissue that forms in the healing process is what is called a scar. Care of a healed scar includes moisturizing and keeping out of the sunshine for at least 6 months after the injury. Whilst every scar has a story, as women we often find it better to keep that within than flaunt it on the outside. Why is it so difficult, however, for our outer scars to go away in pursuit of our perfect Melanin?
GDK: I studied journalism at the London School of Journalism (LSJ), England. But talking about school, can you believe I was a D student?
Din-KariukiGinaofCourtesyPhotography:
There are countless awards and accolades that have come Gina Din’s way. Lately, her private Instagram has been about her two children, he travels and all the amazing people she has met along the way such as one Barack Obama. She is having way too much fun and we wanted in on her secret to retirement. Or was it?
GDK: Lets encourage women not to think of balance as an option. It is interesting to see the shift. At Barclays they would send us to all sorts of training courses, to these wonderful places. Feminine traits like empathy and nurturing were seen as weakness. Now they are taught as strong skill sets to have in leadership schools! More than 30 years ago women were taught to think like men, to be tough. Yet what we are as women makes us natural leaders. We just need to be who we are. I used to carry a briefcase and wear pant suits. Now I dress the way I want to dress. Just don’t define me by the what I am wearing. As women, we need to be authentic. We need to own it. I really think the future is female.
CA: You’ve probably heard the work/life balance question a thousand times over. What are your thoughts on still being asked this very question?
My reason to leave was to spend time with my kids. It turns out I was being impractical. My 8-hour days become 12-hour days. When I started Gina Din Group in October 1997 it was not only to create a brand for myself but the industry. To date, I feel the responsibility to set the pace and lead. I got to know a little bit of everything from monetary policing, brewing to telecommunications. It is exciting!
By Sharon Ngei
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CA: How did you arrive at Gina Din Group?
A WOMAN IN FULL
CA: What grounds you when you face challenges?
GINA DIN KARIUKI, 56. Married with two kids. Strategic Communications PR Practitioner
GDK: I started out at Barclays Bank, worked with great people, then peaked. The titles kept changing and it was pretty interesting to create roles that never existed but after 14 years, I got tired. Kenya Airways and EABL were actively engaging me but my job description was not going to change. My boss then encouraged me to start out on my own and heartened me by outsourcing me. I started out with an anchor client.
CA: What did you study?
GDK: My two children: my super bright daughter Natalya Din-Kariuki, 27, who is my best friend, is doing her PhD in English Literature at the University of Oxford, England; and my son Naythan DinKariuki, 22, graduated with a BA in Football Studies
P COUTURE PROFILE
CA: Did you ever get the sense you were disadvantaged?
GDK: What others marked as flaws or disadvantages about myself – my race, my gender – I embraced as fuel for my success. I never let anything or anyone define me or my potential. I controlled my future. Women have to break down many barriers on the road to success. One of them is how we are constantly reminded we are not men, as if this is a flaw. When I started my business I kept getting told how much easier it would be if I was a man. So often in interviews I get boxed in as a female entrepreneur or leading African woman. It bothers me that I am not seen as an entrepreneur along with my male peers. I hope I am a leading African, period. We should never let this go unchallenged. We should always be judged by our achievements, not by our gender. I am profoundly grateful to have experienced the highs and lows that come with success. I want to empower the next generation of women to be just as bold in their pursuits.
GDK: I travel a lot. I am away two weeks of four each month. 7 years ago I got interested in Africa, focusing on African conversations. Since a friend of mine provoked me asking how I was shaping African conversations and I realised I had nothing to show as my contribution. I was really embarrassed. My partner said something profound. I was like a travel agent telling people to come to Africa and perhaps I needed to stop, and be a tour guide. Now I am spending more time in the continent. I am fascinated and very interested in culture and fashion. I extended by a couple of days to enjoy that. I do yoga too. I walk. I am massage junkie. Spending time with my family is the most therapeutic thing. Describe the legend that is Gina-Din’s style. It is very eclectic. I mix high street with designer clothes. I love fashion. It makes my collection very diverse. I am keen on African pieces and I have wonderful people for that: Penny Winter and the other is Moyo Dindi, from Mombasa but based in London.
CA: How do you deal with gender parity at Gina Din and the spaces you occupy?
CA: Why give away your spot now?
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The Obama books, I have read them before but I recently went to Alego and now I am just reading them again with a different perspective. I am reading his father’s books to, I think Obama is a very exceptional man to do what he did and do it with grace, class and integrity.
GDK: In my organization we have been traditionally been women right up to our newly hired CEO, Lorna Irungu. Women are drawn in to this industry but more is to be done. There are very few women are in leadership in the continent. We need a critical number of women at policy level. With Lorna I can now focus on philanthropy (Gina Din Foundation) with the UN and Red Cross. Most of it is to encourage women's voices to be heard.
GDK: My mind, memory because everything else you can replace but not the mind. What is you currently read?
When he is in town he pops in the office to check on things I find boring like finances. We complement each other. He does not like events but he comes when I drag him. We have known each other a long time. Since I was 16. I have been married to him for 29 years. He is still my best friend.
GDK: Succession has to be planned. Very few people do it and 20 years is a long time. Change is going to come and I feel the younger generation need to take up leadership. It is important for my brand to grow and that does not mean I’m not there. Lorna is going to be handling operations and execution. I will be in charge of strategic direction and growth in Africa. Besides, it frees me up. After 30+ years of working everyday it is kind of cool to not go to the office. I would never have the luxury to be here with you. I’m not pursuing another career either. We have to be our own disruptors. A few years ago I got into the energy space, sitting on the board of Oil Exploration Company in a male-
COUTURE PROFILE
GDK: I have been very fortunate to be surrounded by inspiring people. At 56, I feel I have only scraped the surface. My resume so far is the result of a lot of hard work, but also the belief only the sky's the limit. I started no differently than any other little girl, with perhaps one major exception: I was always told by family, friends, and mentors I could achieve anything I wanted as long as I was open, worked hard and remained helpful to others. My gender was never part of the discussion, but it seems my experience was rare.
It has become clear more needs to be done to shine a light on ambitious, successful women who dream big, achieving their personal and professional goals while staying true to themselves. Men seem to have these kinds of role models in abundance and perhaps as a result do not struggle to imagine if and how they can affect change and become leaders. But many girls and young women struggle to find relatable role models.
CA: What is your current read?
dominated field. Diversity matters.
CA: What is your most prized possession?
from Solent University (Southampton) also in the UK. They are very grounding in the sense that nothing impresses them much. I can call them and say, “You won’t believe this! We are on a private jet going to …” and they would ask me when I am going to visit them. I try to look at life through their eyes. They have taught me to treasure experiences, not things.
CA: What about Mr Christopher Kariuki?
GDK: He is super cool! He Captains the Boeing 787. He is very practical, which I may not be, and, secure. He is sweet. He would bring me a cuppa when I had a 6am flight. He is solid and not at all competitive.
CA: What does 56 feel like?
CA: How do you unwind?
GDK: Former President Barack Obama’s books ; The Audacity of Hope, Dreams From My Father and Of Thee I Sing. I had read them before but I recently went to Alego and now I am re-reading them with a different perspective. I am reading one on Barack Obama Sr, written by Malik Obama; The Rise and Life Of A True African Scholar. I think Obama is a very exceptional man to do what he did and do it with grace, class, and integrity.
Shoes: Chacha Wear
Susan Odhiambo Senior Media Manager
By Jackline Mukami | Makeup by Christine Wanza of Lintons College of Beauty | Photography by Issa of Photochase Photography
Alice Sirengo Media Planner
My personal style is trendy, versatile and evolving. I love fashion and keeping up with what is trending. Tasteful and unique pieces draw me in most of the time. My personal style also happens to be a little different from my office style, where I am a little toned down. There is only so much you can do for your office look. The weather determines my style for the day. Given a chance I would switch my wardrobe with Olivia Pope. Her looks are so dynamic. I can literally picture myself wearing her clothes. As much as I work in a creative space, I would never turn up for work in ripped tops. My favorite accessory is a good bra. You can never go wrong with a good bra. I splurge most on perfume and shoes. I shop online, random stores in town and enjoy thrifting.
My personal style is simple, decent and elegant. It also happens to cut across both my office and outdoors look. My mood dictates what I wear in the morning. I draw my fashion inspiration from Olivia Pope. She is always classy and decent from her hair to her bags and pants. I love dresses. I splurge most on them. I just love the simplicity of one. They also help accentuate my figure. I am not a huge fan of accessories, but if a phone can pass, I am up for it. I would never be caught dead wearing transparent or skimpy clothes. I shop at Toi Market and mrp when I want to treat myself.
Simplicity best describes my personal style. I also love to look comfortable and spontaneous. Working in a creative space also comes in handy when it comes to my office look. We are able to freely express ourselves through dressing. Being appropriately dressed for the occasion is so crucial to me. I admire Churchill the Comedian’s sense of style. I see so much of him in me. He knows how to rock a perfect gentleman look and blend his colours perfectly. His blazers are perfect. I spend most on blazers. I would never leave the house without my watch. I would never be caught dead wearing skinny jeans. I shop anywhere, from thrifting to LC Waikiki if I like what I Shirt:see.
Brooch: Chacha Wear
Watch: Gifted Shirt:
Shoes:Jeans:MaximeLevisBataOffice
Bernard Muiru Community Manager
does not automatically translate into suits and stiff starched collars. Plenty of offices let you create beautiful work outfits and master your own type of office style. You might even be able to navigate the tricky rules of dress. In a sea of suits and ties, Havas Media really knows how to play around with style. See how their unspoken wardrobe gospel can run off on you.
Earrings: CBD Top: Shoes:Pants:CustommadeOnlineInStyle
Top: Shoes:Skirt:CustommadeToiMarketThrifted
Victor Mutwiri Digital Director
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Bracelet: Maasai market
My personal is simply smart and comfortable. It is not different from my office look. You are likely to spot me in smart casuals on both occasions. I also love colors. My moods dictate my dressing for the day. I admire Chris Daughtry’s sense of style. He knows how to dress his body. I spend mostly on jeans and shoes. My favorite accessory is a watch. You can count me out of happy socks; I would never be caught dead wearing a pair of one. As far as my shopping habits go, I am more of a planner. I shop at malls and stores in the CBD.
COUTURE CULTURE | OFFICE STYLE
Blazer:GiftedChacha Wear
Pants: Chacha Wear
WHAT WOMEN [AND MEN] WEAR TO WORK
Susan Impui Media executive
I do a lot of smart casuals and I will go for the comfortable style which works perfectly since I go for a catchy but simple and smart impression. The occasion and my moods determine my dressing for the day. I draw style inspiration from Joy Kendi. She is so stylish and can literally make anything work. My favorite accessory is my watch. I splurge most on shoes and makeup. My ideal wardrobe classy, chic and sophisticated.
My personal style is subtle and elegant. It is similar to my office look. My mood and the weather determines what I wear. I don’t follow fads and trends. I can comfortably say I am my own fashion inspiration since I am tuned to my own fashion sensibilities. My ideal wardrobe is comfortable, practical and easy to switch up. My smile is my favorite accessory. I would never be caught dead wearing harem pants; I feel they do nothing for your figure. I am very frugal when it comes to shopping. However, I spend most on bags and accessories for my family. When shopping for clothing items, I go for comfort. I’ll go for quality when shopping for clothes and quantity when shopping for my shoes. I do my shopping anywhere expect Earrings:online.CBD stores
Havas Media is one of world’s fastest growing global media agencies. They have the agility, global reach and capabilities to meaningfully connect brands with people. Operating in over 140 countries, they are proud to have been named as the market leaders in 3 continents.
Ring: Dubai Dress: Elegant Shopping Mall
Shoes: Backyard Shoes
Top: Skirt:Coat:OnlineZaraCustommade
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Coat: Vivo Activewear
My personal style is spontaneous and unpredictable. You could spot me all smart casual one day then trendy and classy the next. It is different from my office look which is a little toned down. I dress for the day depending on the occasion and my moods. I draw my fashion inspiration from multiple personalities. I dress to represent my personal brand which is ‘look good to feel good’. I don’t accessorise much but my favorite accessories are my earrings. I splurge most on shoes. You will never spot me wearing midi skirts. When shopping, I go for bold pieces that flatter my figure. I am more of a spontaneous buyer; I spot and buy. I shop anywhere.
Sandra Gitobu Media Planner
My personal style is chic, simple with a touch of class. It is not different from my office look. My job allows me to have a creative sense of style which is something I put in my mind when dressing.
Watch: Gifted Shoes: Toi Market
Elizabeth Kariuki Human Resource Manager
Shoes: Emirates Shoe Collection
CBD Necklace: Gifted Watch: Unique Accessories
I am more of a spontaneous shopper. I do a lot of online Earrings:thrifting.
COUTURE
HAVAS MEDIA
Joyce Kigathi Group Account Director
My personal style is simple, chic and comfortable. It is also relaxed and experimental. It is however different from my office look where we are expected to dress in a certain way. The weather and my moods dictates what I wear for the day. I admire Kambua’s sense of style. She exemplifies the modern African modern woman which really piques my interest. I am not into accessorising but I prefer a watch as my favorite accessory. I would never be caught dead wearing those six piece suits. I spend most of my money on shoes and makeup. I am more of a spontaneous buyer; I spot and buy.
Jumpsuit: BTrendy Shoes: F Reborn
CULTURE | OFFICE STYLE
Dress: Custommade
CA: Let’s say you travel back in time to one fashion era, where would you end up? What do you like about that period?
CA: What are your top 3 essential items in a woman’s wardrobe?
WO: The execution of course. There is a lot that comes to play during the execution. You cannot miss a step. For your work to stand out, you actually you need to understand your subject and also honestly communicate with the client. Understand their personality, their working culture, their tastes and distastes. Styling is like the Criminal Minds. It is more of psychology. Keeping an open mind when dealing with the client and giving them a platform to voice their opinions creates the whole difference. What are the challenges you have faced as a stylist?
By Jackline Mukami
WO: Oversized clothes. This is one trend I could wear every single day. It speaks to me, and works on me. There is elegance to it, and this confidence one has while wearing it.
CA: Who is your fashion idol?
CA: What is your definition of beauty in a woman?
WO: Yes. Being a trendsetter is more about the pieces that speak to me. I remember sometime back
I am an old school at heart, so my wardrobe pretty much leans towards the 80s. I just fuse the 80s and what we have right now.
a dresser backstage and that was pretty much my turning point. I realized I enjoyed being backstage. It also helped me realize that styling was actually what I wanted to do. The second shoot was during the Word Cup in the same year. I had the chance to do an ad for Coca Cola as the assistant stylist. The fact that I was so green in styling at the time and still managed to pull through, just defined my career. Besides that, I have also won the Stylist of the Year, 2018 and nominated thrice as Stylist of the Year by Kenya Fashion Awards.
CA: Describe your personal style?
I do a lot of thrifting. I personally feel like thrift stores are me. I also feel like these other stores usually have the same thing going on, and creativity is quite minimal since we don’t really have many creative stores around.
WO: Denims. They will never run out of style.
WO: I don't really have a fashion idol. What I have are people whose style I love since it resonates with me in one way or another. These include Tracee Ellis Ross, Gabrielle Union, Solange, Rihanna, Kahlana Barfield, Kefilwe Mabote, among others.
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WO: I tend to be quite observant so I draw my inspiration from everything. Sounds cliché but being a creative means getting your inspiration from the weirdest of things.
CA: The top 3 fashion no-goes?
WO: That styling is just a daily, easy fun job where we just take photos, attend events and meet celebrities. Yes, that happens, but it’s not the core of what we do. We toil a lot but guys don’t get to see that. There is also the misconception that we are blondes and we don’t have brains.
Being a stylist itself is a challenge. This is mainly because most people in Kenya are yet to understand what being a stylist really means. They don’t appreciate the process as well as the financial part of it. There is also the fact that our jobs are not there every other day. Another is sourcing for clothes and getting stores to come on board and actually trust you. It takes a lot of convincing to have them on board. However, thanks to social media people are becoming more aware and understanding the essence of a stylist.
WO: For the longest time, we have this askew definition of what beauty really is. Beauty cannot
CA: Who is Winnie?
CA: So what makes a stylist's work outstanding from the rest?
WO: A little black dress, nice fitted pants and a nice shirt or blouse.
WO: Eclectic. I pretty much wear everything. Where do you normally shop?
WO: They say fashion is actually on the streets. That is where you get to see what is in and what is about to come in. If you happen to watch the fashion weeks, what is mostly showcased is the street style. I am also very addicted to social media; it is pretty much my office. I will be on Instagram, Pinterest, magazines, online articles and music videos. That is where you get to see and know what is about to come in.
Winnie Odande, 32, Fashion stylist, Founder and Creative Director of Dande Styles.
The highlight of your styling career… What really stands the most to me are two shoots; one was the FAFA Fashion for Peace in 2014. I was
CA: Which trends are you loving right now?
WO: For anyone who loves fashion, becoming a wardrobe stylist seems like a career fallen straight from heaven. Spending your days shuffling through gorgeous clothes, and playing dress up with personalities doesn’t even remotely sound like an actual job. It sounds like fun. However, becoming a fashion stylist is difficult business and unless you have a mentor, you are really on your own. We talk to Winnie Odande to get a glimpse into the universe of creative women and how it gets reflected in fashion.
WO: Dande Styles was birthed in 2014, as a means to an end. I started Dande styles by selling stuff online. That is basically how I got into fashion industry. With time, I came to learn that most people needed to know how to style and pair up their pieces. And that was how my blog was also born. I saw business in styling. The blog was more of an avenue to promote my styling.
CA: What is the biggest misconception guys not working in your field have about your job?
CA: You style a lot of people in the public eye, do you consider yourself a trendsetter?
attending this event with a trench coat as a dress. It was not a trend yet and one personality was actually surprised by my dressing. A few months later it is a trend. We always look down upon things but in reality, style and creativity is not something you can put in a box. It cannot be dictated by the current trend.
CA: How do you keep up with the changing trends in fashion?
CA: What’s something that will always be in fashion, no matter how much time passes?
CA: Tell us more Dande styles.
CA: What is the biggest mistake most women make with fashion?
WO: Leggings. Leggings are not pants. Gowns. Visible panty lines; I would rather you go commando.
WO: Jumping into trends. This means that you don’t know your personal style. Basically the idea is to find what really works for you, and then work around that. It is easy to play around with the fashion once you discover your style.
WO: The 80s. Back then fashion was so really creative and expressive. People were not scared, they were just being themselves. If you look back to the videos done back in those days, guys used to be really fashionable. We are actually going back to that era.
CA: Styling is like an episode of the ‘Criminal minds’ series.
COUTURE CULTURE | HER STYLE
WO: Winnie Odande is an all-round creative; a fashion lover, a fashion stylist and a blogger. I am the Founder and Creative Director of Dande styles; a styling company that provides styling services ranging from personal styling, editorial work, print and commercial styling, merchandise styling, and much more.
For anyone who loves fashion, becoming a wardrobe stylist seems like a career straight from heaven. Spending your days shuffling through gorgeous clothes, and playing dress up with personalities doesn’t even remotely sound like an actual job. However, becoming a fashion stylist is difficult business and unless you have a mentor, you are really on your own. We talk to Winnie Odande to get a glimpse into the universe of creative women and how it gets reflected in fashion.
CA: You have worked with a lot of notable brands WO: Yes, I have worked with notable personalities and various brands/companies as a stylist including Coca Cola, Darling, Cheza Cash, Ajuma Ltd, True Love, Salon Magazine, Couture Africa (style feature), Kameme TV, Ebru TV as a Style Mentor & resident guest judge for the 'Rate My Style' show. Currently I am working as the lead stylist for newly launched Switch TV station.
CA: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Styling is like an episode of Criminal Minds
Most prized possession in your wardrobe?
Believer, Self-Driven, Focused.
Favorite dish?
Favorite color?
Fashion Babylon by Imogen Edwards.
I listen to lots of melancholic music, folk music and slow rock. Songs that have deep content. What do you do for play?
Chapati, fish and chicken
Green
My camera.
just be laid out and defined by someone. Beauty is being sure of who you are and appreciating yourself. You have to work on yourself and feel beautiful for others to see it in you. Women should also dress well; dressing good is a form of politeness. It is high time we just unlearn everything that we have heard about what beauty is, and start a fresh.
Current read?
I do a lot of dining and restaurant hopping. I also love reading and writing.
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Favorite vacation spot?
COUTURE CULTURE
WO: Yes, a lot. Watch me the space.
| HER STYLE
Winnie in three words?
Anywhere that is private and scenic.
BeautyofCollegeLintonsofWanzaChristinebyMakeup|LouieKhalifabyPhotography
CA: Any future projects?
Current playlist?
MM: Staying in shape is really about discipline. It needs organisational skills too. It doesn’t matter how busy one is, you can always create time for something you want to do. I decided fitness is going to be part of my lifestyle and include it my daily routine. I always find a way to schedule my workout. It is that serious.
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CA: What do you do for fun?
MM: We have a lot of work to do in terms being world class. What we do right now is just jump on trends without really doing the homework. I actually feel that we have a lot of good journalists, but there are also a lot of "githeri" journalists out there too.
CA: What is the most exciting thing about being on TV?
MM: I love travelling. Locally, Diani is my best destination. It is such a beautiful place. I love to explore; new exotic foods because I am a foodie, discovering culture and I love spending time with family and watching rugby. Did you say foodie?
CA: What is your definition of beauty in a woman?
CA: And you know where that question leads me... MM: (Laughs) No comment.
CA: Your greatest achievement…
MM: Life on TV has many sides to it. Most people think TV personalities are stuck up and all that. Yes, there are those. But at the end of the day I feel like it really depends on the kind of person you are within. Of course you are noticed by a lot of people. You even get better services. On the other hand, you actually have a chance to determine your income since there are very few on screen or even radio jobs demanding your full time commitment. You can do a lot on the side and earn as much as you want. It all depends with your hustle. It is also very tricky if you are looking to date. You have to get a partner who understands your lifestyle, who gets your hustle.
MM: I actually stammer. I have managed to control it. It can be a huge hindrance. And yet this is something that you cannot cure so you really have to live with it. When I was younger, I could not hold a full conversation. But over the years, I have been able to manage it. You can barely notice it. The only people who do notice are people very close to me. I am also somewhat shy and enjoy my own space, just being alone in silence.
CA: What is that one thing most people don’t know about you?
CA: How has being on screen impacted your style? MM: Style is very important because it defines you. TV happens to be very visual. So as a TV personality, you have got to have a fashion sense that works for you, which you should not deviate from. Style defines who I am and at the same time it has be comfortable. When I first started on TV, I never had a signature style. I was influenced by other personalities, especially from the west. It was all about what I could copy. Over the years, I have come to learn my body and create my own style. I can’t say I have a signature style as it is evolving but I like keeping it casual. It is about sprucing what you wear to fit into your personality.
By Jackline Mukami MIKE MAKORI, 31.
CA: How is life on the screen?
MM: The expression. I am able to express myself and communicate freely, and just put my personality out there. The ability to express myself the way I want to is the most exciting thing.
CA: What would you tell your younger self when you were starting out?
MM: A true gentleman is someone who respects himself and other people. It’s more about being kind and disciplined. Someone who is aware of himself and knows how to treat women respectfully.
CA: What do you think of Kenyan media?
Yes. My favorite dish has to be either ugali or chapati with sukuma wiki, managu or kunde with chicken.
MM: I am the kind of guy who is not really pulled by the norm of what beauty should be. For me, beauty starts with the woman's confidence and how she carries herself.
Favorite accessory. I love watches. Favorite gadget. iPad Boxers or briefs. Boxers Massage/ manicures or garages/workshops. Garage and workshop Suit & and tie or jeans & sneakers. Sneakers and jeans Where do you shop? Anywhere. Share your playlist. My taste is diverse. I listen to Afro music, Hip Hop, R&B, Jazz. Who are you listening to? Octopizzo. Current read? The Alchemist Describe yourself in three words. Ambitious. Kind. Adventurous.
CA: What is your story?
CA: You have a rather busy schedule. How do you stay in shape?
Mike Makori wears many hats; TV presenter, Influencer, MC, and an Entrepreneur. Charismatic, honest and likeable, Mike displays a sense of deeprooted wit that perfectly encapsulates a natural charm. It is hard to imagine he had to overcome a speech impediment.
CA: What is a true gentleman?
COUTURE CULTURE | HIS STYLE MAKING LEMONADE
MM: Don’t stress much in regards to whether you will make it into the area you are trying to pursue. Believe in yourself, work hard, develop yourself. I wish I had developed certain skills when I was younger. Right now I would tell my younger self to have a better work ethic and not stress about the little stuff in.
MM: Not really. It just happens without me asking.
CA: Have you ever used your status to get any favors?
MM: Me doing what I am doing right now, which is what I have always wanted to do. Being on TV daily despite stammering, a very hard thing to deal with, is a huge achievement.
MM: Mike is a Kenyan, born in Nairobi. I work in the media industry for six years now. TV has always been my passion. I broke my voice young. In class if the teacher asked me to read, I would get very shy and was made fun of. I never knew I had a gift until one teacher told me I had a very good voice and presence and should try TV in future. I started out in marketing for about one and half years, but then I realized it was not my thing. A friend suggested I try for the next big TV host online contest. I gave it a go and got shortlisted. I did not win the competition but it opened doors for me. KTN called me for a screen test for E-Curve. I got the job which I did for two years. Later on, I got into the Lotto Show which I have been hosting since then. I have been involved in a lot of influencer work and running a bar on the side. However, my roots are and will always be media.
HouseCOUTURETheatlocationonShot|LouieKhalifabyPhotography
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COUTURE CULTURE | HIS STYLE
SPACEYOURREVAMPINGOUTDOOR
COUTURE CULTURE | DÉCOR
Outdoor living rooms have lately been popping up all over Instagram and Pinterest. They have now become one of the top three spaces within the home that get renovated to improve lifestyle and value of the property. We also all want to spend as much time outside as possible and an inviting outdoor space is an excellent way to bring your family and friends together.
When it comes to sprucing your outdoor décor, a great philosophy is to work with what you already have. There are ways to spruce up your backyard, patio or porch without necessarily making big, structural changes. Whether you want your space party-ready or just creating a relaxing oasis for yourself, here are tips to increase your home’s value and create more space without spending a fortune;
By Jackline Mukami
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COUTURE CULTURE | DÉCOR COUTURE AFRICA | 79
Lighting can really enhance your space and ambience is not just for outdoors. Incorporating some outdoor lighting creates an enchanting atmosphere in your space. A string of paper lantern lightings will give your porch a warm and unique touch that regular light fixtures lack. Hang the bulbs across your patio or above your porch to create an enchanting oasis. A cluster of lanterns will add an ethereal touch to your patio while fairy lights are great for illuminating a gazebo. Your pathways, steps and trees are areas where you can incorporate lighting. The bottom line—there are plenty of ways to enhance your backyard by utilizing lights.
Your outdoor space should be an extension of your indoor living environment. All the aspects of living that you enjoy in your indoors can be translated to the outdoors. Depending on your space try a comfy outdoor sectional. This piece allows for ample room and comfort for all. Create a comfortable and relaxing oasis with signature pieces such comfortable chairs and coaches. Pull throw off your couches and drape them over chairs outside. Choose decor from your coffee table and mix it with fresh-cut flowers for an interesting centerpiece. You could also continue colors used in your home’s interior to the outside space in order to have a seamless connection between the two spaces. Do not be afraid to play around with items you already own.
Treat Out Like In
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COUTURE CULTURE | DÉCOR
Incorporating transitional pieces such as an outdoor fire pit adds that extra ‘wow-factor’ to your garden style. This also helps to create a dramatic rustic difference to your outdoor space. For instance, fire pits and fireplaces are an easy of creating a central focal point in your outdoor space without blowing your budget. An outdoor kitchen or bar can also transform your patio into an all-purpose venue for hosting parties and get-togethers. Likewise, a water feature will give your patio a relaxing ambiance. Porch swings are also an enjoyable additional feature for both children and adults alike.
Celebrate Variety
Switch up the Lighting
What a concept! Even if you love sunshine, you’ll want protection from its harsh effects while lounging in your patio on hot, sunny days. A shade is an absolute necessity if you are adamant about enjoying the outdoor space. There are many options to provide optimal shade coverage, from pergolas to patio Pergolascovers.are great for partial shade option. You get the best of both worlds; the sun, shade, and even moonlight stargazing while the patio covers offer full shade and can either be an extension of your existing roofline or a stand-alone structure.
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As with any other room, your starting point should be the color theme of your outdoor space. Look through your garden for the accent or complimentary colors. Your pool, the pavements, the trees and other vegetation are all good sources to draw from. Bring your porch area alive by painting your garden furniture, adding some colorful cushions, painting some pots or even making a feature wall. Another great way to adding interest to your space is by hanging a colorful artwork on the feature wall.
Insert Colour
Do a Little Furniture Facelift
Much like an unsightly yard, the same old look outdoor furniture can make your patio or porch look stale and unattractive. Enhance the feel of your space by updating the existing furniture. If you’re tired of the shabby look of your furniture, try repainting them a new color. There are many options for spray paints that have been created specifically to weather the outdoors. Add playful pillows to create ambiance and that ‘summer-feel’ you’re looking for.
Throw Some Shade!
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Country of Origin: South Africa
Mellowcabs
Developed in South Africa, the Mellowcab is a three-wheeled fully electric vehicle developed to solve public transportation in the country. The Mellowcabs are eco-friendly and carbonneutral. The cabs, made from recycled materials, feature top-of-the-line, cutting technologies which include using kinetic energy to power the vehicle, on-board tablet computers, hydrogen fuel cell technology, and are made out of recycled materials. The rides are free; the company relies on an advertisement placed in the cab. The developers helped to reduce traffic in urban areas and successfully tied into the transport infrastructure.
COUTURE CULTURE | GADGETS
CAT scan
Country of Origin: South Africa
The Cardio Pad
INNOVATIONS THAT COULD CHANGE THE WORLD
Country of Origin: Cameroon
It is difficult for people in most rural areas to access specialized medical treatment in Cameroon. Worse still there are only 50 cardiologists in Cameroon, which has a population of 20 million people. The Cardiopad was invented by Arthur Zang, and it is the first handheld medical computer tablet used to perform heart examinations to help diagnose people with heart disease. The CardioPad is a 25-centimeter touch screen that enable health personnel perform cardiac tests such as the electrocardiograms (ECG). The patient’s results are then wirelessly sent to doctors for interpretation.While the device is currently only available in Cameroon, the production company is in the process of marketing the unit to other African countries. The innovation will allow many heart patients to receive prompt diagnosis that is otherwise a luxury in many African countries. The innovation has since won the Rolex award for Enterprise in 2014 and the Royal Academy of Engineering award for African engineering in 2016.
Who: Ludwick Marishane
There are far too many negative stories written about the African continent – from poverty to lack of infrastructure and innovation. This could not be far from the truth. However, creativity and ingenuity in technology are driving a new generation of African innovators in search of lifesaving solutions to myriad of problems facing the continent. In this era of technology, Africa is undeniably the new hub of innovations. Here are some of the notable inventions/ innovations that have been developed on home soil.
Who: Arthur Zang
The Dry Bath
Who: Allan Cormack
Imagine taking a bath anywhere, at any time, without necessarily using the traditional method of water. Now it is possible. Also known as the waterless bath, the Dry Bath is the world’s first and only bath-substituting antibacterial and biodegradable skin gel. Created in 2011 by Ludwick Marishane from South Africa, his invention is particularly useful for rural communities where clean water is hard to come by. DryBath is a clear germicidal and moisturizing gel, with a sweet aroma, that is applied to skin in the manner of waterless hand cleaners. The product has had positive effects for millions of people in Africa and other parts of the developing world where they lack regular access to clean water leads to reduced basic hygiene and a lower quality of life. Ludwick is currently South Africa’s youngest patent-filer having invented DryBath at the age of seventeen. He has since struck up partnerships with Oxfam and WaterAid. Prior to inventing the Dry Bath, Ludwick invented a healthy cigarette in 10th grade and authored a mobile dictionary. The DryBath invention has won him the Global Student Entrepreneurship Award (GSEA) at the Global Entrepreneur Week (GEW) for two consecutive years (2010 and 2011).
Who: Neil De Perez
When patients around the world lie down for a Computed Axial Tomography Scan (CAT), few know that the technology was actually invented by a South African. The CAT Scan was developed by physicist Allan Cormack and his associate Godfrey Hounsfield. The physicist provided the mathematical techniques for the CAT scan, in which an X-ray source and electronic detectors are rotated about the patient and the resulting data is analyzed by a computer to produce a sharp map of the tissues within a cross-section of the body. Allan’s interest in the problem of X-ray imaging of soft tissues was first aroused when he took up a part-time position of physicist for a hospital radiology department. The innovation has since won in a Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine.
Country of origin: South Africa
Where: Kinshasa, DRC
The MobileODT is an Israel-based invention leveraging the power of mobile phones and selfies to improve cervical cancer screening among women in high-risk, low-income areas. Early detection of cervical cancer is crucial for treatment purposes, however, most lowincome women are at a risk since they do not have access to the Colposcope, the device used for screenings. With this in mind, MobileODT, an Israel-based medical company launched the new mobile for the remote, low-income areas where there are more smartphones than physicians. The MobileODT cervical cancer screening system allows any smartphone to also perform as a colposcope. The device is equipped with a light source and magnifying lens giving the phone’s camera lens the capabilities to capture a detailed image of any abnormalities in the cervical tissue. The procedure is less invasive procedure than a Pap smear. Once the image (“selfie”) is taken, the nurse can make a diagnosis or capture photos of the patient’s cervix and transmit them securely to a physician for further analysis. The technology is already being used in 11 countries, including Kenya, Gambia and Haiti.
The Biomedical Jacket was created by University graduate and inventor Brian Turyabagye. The biomedical smart jacket is an invention that can diagnose pneumonia faster than a doctor. Brian named the jacket “Mamaope“, or “Mother’s Hope” – referencing the 27 000 children under the age of five who die of pneumonia in Uganda every year. Most of these cases are due to poor diagnosis of Pneumonia. The Mamaope jacket measures the sick child's temperature and breathing rate via a stethoscope which is then linked to mobile application via Bluetooth. It can diagnose pneumonia three to four times faster than a doctor and eliminates the possibility for human error. The device was shortlisted for the 2017 Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize
COUTURE CULTURE | GADGETS
Who: Vodacom and Vodafone for Safaricom
MobileODT
Mamaope, the Biomedical Jacket
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M-Pesa
Country of Origin: Kenya
Who: MobileODT medical company Country of Origin: Israel
Robotic Traffic Wardens
Who: Brian Turyabagye
This is just one of the Best African Invention we have in the Continent. Hailing from Congo is Therese Izay, an industrial engineer in electronics who has made a tremendous impact not just in her country, but in Africa as a whole. Just like most major cities around the world, Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo has the same congestion problems. This is why Therese developed a human-like robot to aid in regulating traffic in the capital city of Kinshasa. The solar-powered robotic traffic cops regulate the disorderly traffic by directing and stopping traffic when necessary. Some of them are even designed and programmed to speak whenever they detect pedestrians. They advise them on when to cross the road and when it is not convenient to cross.
Who: Therese Izay Kirongozi
Country of Origin: Uganda
Created for mobile operators in Kenya and Tanzania, Mpesa is a mobile phone based money transfer and micro financing service. There are different theories on who invented Mpesa, but one theory that stands out is that the service was launched in 2007 by Vodafone for Safaricom and Vodacom, the then largest mobile network operators in both Kenya and Tanzania. The service allows users to deposit, withdraw, and transfer money as well as pay for goods and services via their mobile devices. The users are then charged a small fee for the services provided. The Mpesa service is currently the most developed mobile system in the world. It has since expanded to other countries including South Africa, India, Afghanistan, Romania and Egypt.
Get Your Digital Copy on Magzter and Download the COUTURE App LIPA NA MPESA BUY GOODS: 983936 ACCOUNT NO. YOUR NAME AMOUNT: 4,500 SUBSCRIBE NOW FOR JUST KSH 4,500!!
COUTURE CONVERSATIONS 86 | COUTURE AFRICA
NO. YOU DON’T KNOW NEARLY ENOUGH ABOUT YOUR PERIODS
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COUTURE CONVERSATIONS
By COUTURE Team
Periods. A taboo topic. One that must be kept under wraps. A gross once a month visitor only referenced by euphemisms like Aunt Flo or Code Red. This has, in turn, kept women from openly discussing periods. From that telltale cramp to that final uncomfortable tampon, periods are unsurprisingly, complicated business, both scientifically and historically speaking. You would be forgiven for thinking you know all there is about menstruation, that long, clunky, unsexy, uninviting word.
You don’t bleed as much as you think you do Although on a bad day it can get pretty gnarly and feel like a gory horror movie in your underpants, you actually don’t lose as much blood as you think. On average, you only lose about a cup of blood throughout a period. On paper, this seems like nothing, but on those heavy days, it is not unusual to experience ‘flooding’, or see blood clots in your flow. These are bits of your uterine lining and mucus.
COUTURE CONVERSATIONS
It is time to squash the age-old myth that your period protects you from pregnancy. It does not. There are a couple of reasons why. First, some women may bleed during ovulation, and mistake it for their period. Second; the sperm can hang out in your vagina for up to five days, so if you ovulate soon after your period, you could technically get pregnant.
This is pretty much a double-edged sword – on one edge, periods make you feel bloated, heavy, sluggish, and all around less sexy in general. On the other hand, most women find themselves feeling more aroused around – a change caused by a spike in hormones, increasing your levels of desire. If you and your partner are both okay with it, and we bet he will because they like it when their woman initiates sex every so often - having orgasmic period sex can ease cramps and other PMS symptoms. During your period, uterine contractions caused by an orgasm releases pain-fighting neurotransmitters like endorphins and oxytocin. Low libido can be a sin of adrenal fatigue, likely caused by anovulatory cycles, PMS or low progesterone.
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Your period is ever-changing
You CAN fall pregnant during your period
Sex is as good as any other time
more Ibuprofen. And a new uterus. I hate this one. Don’t. Ever. Touch. My. Boobs. Ever! Gawd fuck me boo. NOW!! And by the way …..runs to toilet and gags pure air.
Did you know you will likely have 450 periods during your lifetime? Meaning there exist hundreds of chances to learn. Right? Technically, periods are designed to work on a monthly cycle giving you room to almost accurately predict the next period, prep for an exhausting uncomfortable week, then get happy, unbothered and period-free for the rest of your 21 days. Except every month is a peculiarly different hell. Every woman is tortured in different ways. Every reproductive system is just so different. Bodies are not like a European train, right on schedule. Instead, they are more like Kenyan matatus that turn up days early, a few days later, all month, once a quarter or simply never. This is the part where we will bore you with reasons why you need a period journal, especially an online one. Because you will be called upon to know your body in ways so intimate no other human could.
Just when you think you have figured her out, she flips you upside the head. Thanks to hormone shifts over your lifetime, you will become your period’s bitch. After the very first period, your cycles may be longer - because your eggs have taken the scenic route traveling down the fallopian tubes to the uterus. More time passes between one period to the next. A typical cycle for a teenage girl is anything from 21 to 45 days. With time, periods get shorter and more predictable, averaging about 21 to 35 days. Your 30s could bring more severe PMS symptoms like dark moods and bloating as well as a bigger gap between periods. In your 40s, your perimenopause phase, you will ovulate and menstruate irregularly since your eggs are releasing less and fewer hormones. Don’t be surprised by these shifts.
Your body is pregnant right before you bleed OMG someone is losing their hand if they so much as LOOK at my chocolate cookie stash! London Dairy vanilla ice cream. ONLY London Dairy. Damn Chandarana for running out! Crunchy tortilla chips with vinegar, onion and cheese. Yum. Yes! Avocadoes! Eff dinner! KFC Sticky 5 Hits. The. Spot! I just suddenly want to eat everything and…Aw, look at that puppy on T.V. He’s so cute and cuddly. I want babies! Damn I hate Creed in the morning. Why? Just, Why? I need a dog. And crepe pancakes from when I was 11. No I am NOT using too many exclamation marks after my 300 emojis! Note to self: A bottle of Ulgel on the way home from work. Crap. Where is that damn water bottle? What do you want mum? WHAT!! WHAT!!! Baaaabe? I need
Periods are very expensive!
depression is triggered, and can grow to suicidal proportions thanks to hormonal shifts. What’s worse is once you get your period, the fever doesn’t break. Lifestyle changes such as exercising, quality sleep and a balanced diet are strongly recommended. If your PMS is particularly intense, do not hesitate to share your experience with your OBGYN. It may be Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a mood disorder. Chimamanda Adichie wrote about it in The Guardian, UK, 2016, in an article that was later pulled down.
A rare period disorder can cause bleeding of the eyes and nose
Known as vicarious menstruation, this rare condition makes the woman bleed from other organs, like eyes or nose, while also on her period. This occurs when endometrial tissues (which normally grow in your uterus and shed during your period), are transmitted through the bloodstream. Luckily, only a handful of cases have ever been reported.
Pill periods are fake periods
PMS is very, very real yet still a science mystery PMS is no joke. The breakouts, the migraines, the cravings, the bloating, the mood swings. Sound familiar? Every woman is different, yes, but for many, Premenstrual Syndrome is a fact of life. PMS seems to be a combination of hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle, chemical changes in the brain, and other emotional issues you might have, such as stress. Research indicates mental illness such as
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Regular scheduling does not mean fertility
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When you take the pills, your body is deprived of the synthetic hormones needed to keep your uterine lining in place, so it sheds. Technically that’s ‘monthly withdrawal bleeding’ which is different from a regular period. Though birth control pills prevent ovulation by keeping your body from releasing an egg, they don’t prevent it from building up the lining of your uterus all month. With most types of pills, you take hormones for 3 weeks followed by 1 week pill-free. The period-like bleeding in that fourth week is your body’s reaction to the lack of hormones from the last week of the pill.
Most women are under the impression that a normal menstrual cycle equals fertility. Sadly, not. You can get your menses with or without releasing an egg, the latter which is commonly referred to as anovoluntary cycle which basically means a cycle in which ovulation has not occurred. Rather than relying on predicting the dates of your period to figure out when you're ovulating, start by tracking your basal body temperature and peeking at your cervical fluids every day.
Menstrual cups, flexible cups that fit inside your vagina and collects blood during your period, are becoming more eco and environment friendly. Period panties are also becoming another viable option. Super-absorbent, you can wear them on their own on your lighter days or with a tampon the first couple of days. There are also reusable cloth pads that can be washed and re-worn again. Which brings us to -
When you consider your approximate 400 periods in a lifetime, you will have paid quite an amount to manage your periods. Add up all the pads, the tampons, heating pads, birth control pills, over the counter meds, not forgetting the tubs of ice cream and all manner of cravings, you will have spent more money than you imagine. Then there is the tendency to shop more impulsively at certain times of the month more than others. Isn’t that crazy?
Tampons and pads are not your only choices
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You need to change your diet and workouts according to your cycle
A healthy period is very distinct The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists declared in 2015 that periods were so vital, they count as a measurement of rude health. Alisa Vitti, women’s hormone and functional nutritionist, author of WomanCode and TED Fellow, who declares PMS and period pain as ‘not normal,’ then went further and broke it down. Where do you fall?
Your voice changes during your moon time No, this is not us dissing you. This is science. The sound of your voice actually changes during your period. Your reproductive system usually impacts your vocal chords during that time of the month thus altering your voice. Some researchers also claim your voice will sound ‘less attractive’ while you are menstruating. There is also research revealing that a woman’s body odour is more fragrant when she is not menstruating. While this might be considered the result of hygiene, it is said even a woman’s walk has less of a seductive hip sway once her menses begin, and that even a complete stranger is more likely to be drawn to an ovulating woman than one in her menses.
Menstruating women are always told not to try inversions in yoga during their periods. It turns out you need to sync your nutrition with your fluctuating hormones because certain micronutrient deficiencies can cause PMS. It means ruling out a low-calorie diet that will affect your thyroid, which will in turn cause your metabolism to slow down. Enter dull hair and skin, brain fog and exhaustion. This will up the cortisol levels - you know cortisol, the stress hormone that settles weight around your midsection making it impossible to lose. It gets worse. If your body has excess oestrogen, it struggles to burn fat. One more thing. Exercise needs to be intuitive. The first half of your cycle workout should be different from the second half. Syncing your diet and workouts to your cycle equals great results.
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The colour: Dark, purple/blue
The frequency: Varies
The colour: Barely-there pink
The colour: Brown
What it means: Congratulations! This is what’s considered a normal, healthy period. If you’re already cycle-synching and eating nutrient-rich, supportive foods, keep it up. Make sure to also incorporate all the necessary lifestyle tweaks and essential supplements to ensure your cycle stays on track.
The consistency: Like jello mix that hasn’t set (medium viscosity: not too thin, not too thick)
The frequency: Varies
Coffee sucks if you want to make babies
The consistency: Thin/streaky
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The frequency: Varies
The colour: Bright, cranberry-red
What it means: That brown stuff is old oxidized blood that didn’t make it out of your uterus last cycle and it’s caused by low progesterone levels. These low levels may be at the root of your period symptoms and may also cause you to struggle with regular ovulation.
The length: Varies
The consistency: Too light to tell
The consistency: Thick with clots
The length: Longer than a week
The length: 5-7 days
The length: 3 days or less
Unless you inherited the CYP1A2 gene, which breaks down not just caffeine but oestrogen, it is time to ditch coffee. Caffeine apparently causes difficulties in conceiving. Men who take it have lower chances of conception through IVF 3 cups a day by either gender increases chances of miscarriage by 74%. Caffeine stresses the adrenal glands, increases cortisol levels and depletes B vitamins and folate for the motherto-be. It also depletes micronutrients necessary for hormonal balance. And, yes, there’s more. Caffeine can cause the formation of cysts in your breasts and ovaries. Here is the scary part. If you already have fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, PCOS and fibrocystic breasts, caffeine actually guarantees that your body will make even more cysts. Thank Alisa Vitti for this phenomenal exit. There is so much more to learn. But we think this is a great place to start. And pause this conversation.
The frequency: Every 28-30 days
What it means: A super-short period and extra light bleeding may indicate low estrogen levels. Your hormones are made from the food you eat, so your low estrogen is likely due to vitamin and nutrient deficiencies from improper and extreme dieting as well as from adrenal burnout.
What it means: This frozen blueberry color is a sign of too much estrogen. Estrogen levels that are higher in proportion to progesterone cause a lot of the typical symptoms associated with problematic periods, and potentially lead to endometriosis, cysts, or fibroids. Over the long term, excess estrogen can lead to more serious health consequences.
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I look at our mothers and the struggles they went through to get basic rights as women. To get education and launch careers. To start a business. To own land. I look at those struggles and do not take for granted the opportunities bestowed upon today’s woman. Not only African women, but women in general. To imagine that there was a time when women could not travel / own passports without consent from their husbands. To imagine that until earlier this year, women in Saudi Arabia still could not own a driving license. In less than 30 years, women have moved from being treated as children to being truly and fully liberated. There was a time in this country women could not only not inherit land from their husbands and fathers. Women could not register a business without there being a man. Yet, here we stand today – land, businesses, cars and all. Not only can you inherit property, you can buy as much property as you like! Not only can you start and run your own business, the government and major corporations have put policies in place to support women-owned businesses!
The best and worst part of all this is that not enough women and young people are stepping up… Why? I do not know. Therefore, the few that do truly go for it get an even bigger chance to shine. So why should that shining example not be you? All I know is I think I’m doing my part, what about you?
And then there is this whole thing about being young…and African! I am sure we are all aware by now that Africa is the youngest and fastest growing continent. With 50% of the African [and mirrored in Kenya] being under the age of 25, it is no doubt that Africa’s biggest resource is its youth. This then brings a whole new dynamic on what being a young African means in today’s world. Suddenly, all eyes are on Africa’s youth, not as a burden as it would have been in the past, but as an asset. Everyone is looking at how to tap into this asset that is the African Youth. This asset that is you and me. This means that the opportunities are rife and ripe for the picking! From business opportunities, to access to capital to youth focused skill development, name it. It is all youth focused! If you are a young person on this beautiful continent of ours, all you have to do is stick your head out and up to seize the numerous opportunities prepared for you…quite literally on a silver platter. Who needs silver spoons in our mouths. In todays vibrant economy, gone are the days when the rich stayed rich and the poor stayed poor. Bill Gates said it best, “if you are born poor it is not your mistake, but if you die poor, it is your mistake.”
LAST WORDS | OLIVE GACHARA
There is no better time to be a Young African Woman in Africa than today!
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This has become my new mantra, and I will tell it to anyone who shall listen. What do I mean by this?
Remember, there is no better time to be a Young African Woman in Africa than Today! It’s Our Time!
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