EAST AFRICA’S HOME OF FASHION FASHION . BEAUTY . CULTURE ISSUE 58| FEB 2019 THE FIERCE BRENDA WAIRIMU Because It’s Not Pretend FASHION Wazawazi Kenya The Zanta Collection CULTURE Papillon: The Heart of AfricaKES 500 USD 4.5 | UGX 22,000 RWF 7,000 | TZS 14,000 ECONOMYCREATIVETHE On Creatives and Their Success Stories
Y O U T H & W O M E N M E D I A & T E C H N O L O G Y ENT E R P R IS E & IN D U S T R Y
40 The Zanta Collection. Zanta Adeyde is slowly becoming a household name in accessories design, and her 2019 jewellery collection definitely does not disappoint.
COUTURE GENTLEMAN
46 Alex Nyaga is the Group CEO and one of the Founding members of the leading professional cleaning and allied solutions company in East African Region, Parapet Group of Companies
CONTENTS COUTURE IN-HOUSE 10 The COUTURETeam NEWS 12 DIGITAL 16 COUTURE 18 FASHION 19 BEAUTY 22 COUTURE 34COUTURECULTURECELEBRITYBrendaWairimui.
As an actress, Brenda is a pixie with an attitude. Cute, idiosyncratic, and fiercely intelligent, she is perfect for quirky, endearing characters that are rich in humanity and personality.
COUTURE FASHION
COUTURE CONTENTS
STYLE 68
COUTURE HISTORY
COUTURE PROFILE
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76 9482CONVERSATIONSDécorOFCREATIVESANDTHEIRSUCCESSSTORIESLASTWORDS COUTURE CONTENTS
COUTURE Office style Kate Wambui Dominic
52 Papillon will feature at the Gala Night of the Century at African Heritage House March 3rd for the launch of the magnificent double volume opus AFRICAN TWILIGHT by Carol Beckwith & Angela Fisher.
54 African Twilight is a double volume opus documenting the vanishing ritruals, ceremonies and cultures of Africa by the intrepid pair of photographers, Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher since their last book AFRICAN CEREMONIES was launched at the Millenium with 23 Kenyan hotels.
64 Nyakan Munyeki was a computer scientist and a business process engineering expert. She had worked in the private sector for almost a decade with multinational companies - transforming businesses and driving companies to make money.
72 Collins
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December 1
Hey guys, Sooo, the Couture Magazine December, January Issue is available and yours truly was featured. I got to share a part of me with you and I hope you will be ministered to. Get your copy now and don’t be left behind.
My hair was from @ladychachahair
S A F A R I | Headed on a #luxurysafari with @coutureafrica in their December issue
CocoLili December 20
Among other shining stars this year, am greatful to be in the books of 2018 shining stars by @ coutureafrica #happyholidays#aulgahnato
Luxury lifestyle in CocoLili featured in the December issue of @coutureafrica #cocoliliafrica #cocolili#cocoliliprint #pink Available#africanfashion#instastyle#blondehairdontcare#africanbloggers#jet#travelgram#instatravel#lifestyle#buttondown#buttondownshirt#capripants#pinkmatooke#matookeprint#pleatedskirt#cocolilibasics#luxury#luxurysafari#getaway#hangar#jetset#jetsetter#blondehair#instafashion#madeinkenya#africanbrandatVillageMarket
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Nato Design House december 19
U R Y | Check
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Still on the YessCoutureWe@dreadlocksaffairsameareinthismonthmagazineAfrica.'''weareinAfrican.And
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December's
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L U X out feature in Coutureafrica
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Last month we were featured on Salons solution magazine @dreadlocksaffair
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our
Thank you Couture Magazine for featuring Eden Leather on the November issue. We are #madeinkenya#madeinkenya#coutureafricamagazine#leatherbyedenhumbled#handmade
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Blessings from God and @kqstyleswe are humbled. .
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COUTURE NEWS
in the Best Motion Picture-Drama category. The awards show long known for its iconoclastic choices didn’t disappoint, not only for choosing “Bohemian Rhaposody” over “A Star is Born” for best dramatic film, but also for picking several lower profile performances — like Glenn Close as best actress (drama) for her role in “The Wife,” over Lady Gaga and other luminaries, including Nicole Kidman “Destroyer” and Melissa McCarthy “Can You Ever Forgive Me?”. The biggest upset of the evening may have been that "A Star is Born," a marquee entry with nominations in four major categories, managed only a single gold trophy. But hey, let’s talk fashion - the awards left us dreaming of the oh! so glamourous gowns that we all wish to have in our closets. On every major red carpet there seems to be a colour that takes the trophy and this
The 2019 Golden Globe Awards, one of the grandest events in Hollywood came and went…and it was sure filled with great moments; from Lady Gaga speaking out about being a woman in music and Regina King's powerful speech about gender parity to its usual share of surprise winners and political commentary, a lot happened on TV that warranted some big discussions. It was a talent-packed field with movies like A Star Is Born starring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper going up against Chadwick Boseman and Michael B. Jordan in Black Panther
OF GOLDEN GLOBES
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Winners, Losers, Nude Shades and Best Dressed
year, Nude shades were the in thing, and not just plain nude but it came in shades of pink, beige and crème. The A-list designers responsible for the nude glamour were Givenchy, Gucci, Vera Wang, Dior, Stella McCartney, Zuhair Murad among others. One of the show stoppers in the best dressed category was Lady Gaga in her Custom Valentino light blue gown that left everyone speechless with its oversized balloon sleeves and the longest train. Her dress took the cake on this one. But hey! At least it was not a meat dress. The Black Panther trio of Danai Gurira, Michael B Jordan and our very own Lupita Nyongo did justice by strutting the red carpet in Rodarte, Burberry and Calvin Klein respectively.
In this fickle, cut-throat world of high-end couture, fashion is, by its definition, an ephemeral business. All too often, today’s wardrobe essentially becomes tomorrow’s loony pants or as famously put by Coco Chanel “fashion is made to become unfashionable”. But even then, Victoria Beckham has achieved the rare feat of creating a clothing brand that is both commercially successful and highly-rated. At least, until now. The former Spice Girl’s eponymous brand – which recently marked a decade in the industry with her first London catwalk show – is far from smooth ailing. Figures posted at Companies House shows that Victoria Beckham Brand made a loss of £8.4million in the past financial year – up a whopping 78 per cent on the previous year’s £4.7million deficit. Revenue at the brand also dipped, down 1.4 per cent to £36.4million. From the start the label has catered for the affluent consumer with dresses and jumpsuits in its “ready to wear” range retailing between £1,000 and £2,000, and the “sale” section of the website advertising a “panelled” T-shirt at the bargain price of £313. So how did she end up sinking that deep into the red despite a sales growth of 17% to 42.5 million pounds? Well, according to an official statement from the brand, the negative figures were caused by increased investment in the brand’s design, production and marketing, as well as
COUTURE AFRICA | 17
MOVE OVER NYFW – VEGAN FASHION WEEK IS HERE
COUTURE NEWS
a difficult global trading environment. A study by The Sunday Times shows that Victoria Beckham Limited generated sales of nearly £169 million between its foundation in 2008 and 2016 but broke even in only four financial years. The label’s debt increased by nearly £10 million during 2016, with bank loans to the firm doubling to £12 million in the same year. Speaking in light of the results, Victoria Beckham said that despite a difficult trading environment it has been investing for its future growth and building its leadership team. Last December, NEO Investment Partners invested £30 million (€33.3 million) in the business in exchange for a minority stake. It has also emerged that in 2018, the husband
In the alphabet soup of fashion week abbreviation –NYFW, SAFW, LFW, MFW, et al. – enters VFW. Vegan Fashion Week - the first ever Vegan Fashion Week to be held from February 1st-4th in Los Angeles. At first blush, a Fashion week organized around veganism sounds a little...intense. Shall it have green designs with hashtags, #iStandForNoMeat or #VeggieTilliDie or maybe #AnimalsAreBae slogans on them? How can clothes be vegan? And who will attend? Beats us! Well, according to Animal rights activist and vegan fashion stylist Emmanuelle Rienda, the curator and producer of the show aims to end animal exploitation in the industry by educating fashion lovers about the ethical, social, and environmental issues surrounding the use of animals in the industry (By the way, vegan does not just mean she avoids leather and fur; it applies to all animal products, including wool, alpaca, and silk). The Vegan fashion stylist aims to take the event to other fashion-forward cities in an attempt to make Vegan Fashion Week a standard fashion week in the future. Los Angeles is a fitting home to host the fourday event – they recently became the biggest city in America to ban the use of fur, boasts of 150 vegan friendly establishments and was named by PETA as America’s most vegan city in 2018. The world’s first Vegan Fashion Week, it seems, is perfectly timed with the use of fur and leather still rife within fashion and customers often blissfully unaware of the inherent cruelty behind both materials.
VICTORIA BECKHAM’S POSH FROCKS TO LOSSES
David’s company DB Ventures, which handles earnings from his image rights, pumped £25million into Victoria’s fashion business. What if it does not work out? It is unlikely Victoria will find herself going cap in hand to the bank manager any time soon. The couple are estimated to be worth a combined £500million with DB Ventures continuing to bring in about £2million of profit every month. Or, to put it another way, enough cash to buy Victoria Beckham around 9,000 sequin midi dresses.
ANNUAL TRIBAL CHIC
COUTURE NEWS | FASHION 18 | COUTURE AFRICA
There is something nostalgic that comes with the event, local inspiring and homely designs and outfits. This echoed what Nairobi’s image has always been; hip, dazzling and creative. It definitely was the hype of fashion and it saw the pooling of local designers and international designers. This year’s guest of honour was the Indian award-winning fashion designer, Masaba Gupta – a fashion icon. As usual there were a couple of individuals who dressed to kill such like Lucia Musau whose elegant dress had fringy details, by Aulgah Nato. Capital FM's Anne Mwaura had a mini Ankara dress, paired with heeled ankle boots and Julie Gichuru who definitely brought her fashion a game in a form-fitting Ankara gown by Nanawax Kenya, among many others.
2019
It was all glitz and glamour at the 2018 Tribal Chic Event and the show did not disappoint at all. Seems like every attendee had a memo to dress impressively and with a flavour of glamour. The event had a floral staged ambience that blended so well with the mood and the participants. It once again gave local and international designers a platform to showcase their artistry and creativity through fashion. The showcasing designers were Nike Kondakis who is known for her multipurpose garments. Nike showcased a latest version of her collection “Second life”. Others who participated were, Katungulu Mwendwa, Deepa Dosaja, Adele Dejak, Niku Singh, Kipusa by Anne Mpinga and Anthony Mulli. Jiamini label by Mulli stole the audience attention with its sleek, seductive and streamlined collection titled Vulnerability.
Fashion Week 2018 had unique appearances from celebrities and new and old designers showcasing amazing fabrics and attires and as always managed to glue the audience .A parade of models with exclusive wears by different designers like Tokyo James who’s stylish but edgy leather embedded and exaggerated accessories was just fabulously African, and not forgetting Emmy Kasbit who brought back old school fabrics with amazing tailored and unique material or Deola Sagoe who is known as a legend of fashion in her own way by always fascinating the audience by playing around with Africa fabrics and African accessories. It’s unquestionably glamour, what Lagos Fashion Week is, and it never disappoints.
What is Lagos without its annual fashion week? Seriously, it takes it all, from our energy of anticipation to admiration towards the show itself, the culture, music and the glamourous models who always steal the show with something new and African each time. Every year, Lagos Fashion Week comes with a bang or a wave that none of us can assume or ignore, it is like our own African Vogue or Victoria Secrets shows combined. It gives platforms that highlight the richness of Africa fashion and portrays what Lagos is really known for. Fashion industries and stakeholders across Nigeria and Africa always take this chance to sport the next big move in the business of fashion. Lagos
One of the most iconic international fashion events kicked off on 21st January in Paris. Paris Fashion Week is a platform where we get to witness exquisite looks from fashion lovers and designers’ creations both on the catwalk and off it. With the events running over 4 days, a number of fashion houses prepared to mesmerize the world and the audience with their well thought and creative works. This year’s grand scene was the fact that the catwalk was designed like a dreamy French villa. How sexy is just the thought of that! Models from different fashion houses beautified the catwalk with amazing gowns and embellished swimsuits that saw channel claim pride in. Among the memorable outfits showcased was the unique wedding swimsuits from Chanel, and Designers Victor and Rolf got the crowds attention by literally having gown’s with memes that read; ‘sorry am late’, ‘I didn’t feel like coming’, ‘I don’t give a damn’, and ‘I am my own muse’. Not forgetting Louis Vuitton who payed attribute to Michael Jackson's [Billie video] with white paired football helmets with colourful styles. As usual, a lot of celebrities had dressed glamorously and elegantly. We all have a clue about what happens in Rome stays there…But what happens in Paris spreads to the whole world in flames. So is the fashion.
LAGOS FASHION WEEK 2018
PARIS FASHION WEEK
image that many Africans might not be ready to courageously embrace their skin colour, tone and complex. Africans always have issues with colour, self-esteem and sometimes personal preference, as many entertainment influencers state on reasons why they bleached. This makes us question; is the entertainment industry a cheerleader to skin lightening? We all have read or heard stories about the ridicule and jokes on dark skinned shaming and how dark-skinned musicians, models, presenters and all involved in the entertainment industry suffer on chances and favours since their colour is the problem! Well, just so you know, lightening products contain chemicals such as mercury hydroquinone that are extremely harmful to the human body and skin, kidney and livers. It’s crazy that a few people still use and survive on them.
WINK IN PEACE
MOGUL IN THE MAKING
for KES 9,100. Prior to launching her makeup line, Joanne felt that the African woman is not represented. The Aspire collection is made for the African goddess, and the gorgeous artwork for the palette is African-made. Joanne has in the past collaborated with some of the most coveted make-up brands in the beauty world. She joins the ranks of other Kenyan beautyprenuers with Make-up lines such as Suzie Wokabi, Founder of Suzie Beauty cosmetics and Nelly, Founder of Pauline Cosmetics. It’s a beauty lover’s dream come true!
Isn’t it wonderful how we wake up every day and one of our many beauty problems is solved? We can finally stop disturbing google on tips of how to fade our dark, fat and swelling eye bugs. At the comfort of our space we can now treat our issue and not wonder how to couture it for a date later. This saviour cream not only treats acne, but also relieves symptoms of psoriasis and eczema, as well as kills parasites and fungal infections. As a compound in NeoEyes formula, it helps to get rid of bags and swelling under eyes. You may have noticed your under-eye skin is significantly thinner than the skin elsewhere on the body. Swelling and bags in this area is always an issue because you might be having a meeting but your colleagues’ glance at you as if you slept in a bar, or you lacked enough sleep caused by excessive drinking and your face looks older! No one wants this. It’s the reason why NeoEyes should be on the list of your beauty products purchase. With adequate use, it keeps the skin around the eyes look even and youthful by reducing the damages. Without turning to invasive procedures like needles or surgery, a natural approach could be quite effective in keeping this delicate area looking good.
If dark is beauty for you, bleaching is to someone else, thus the increase of bleaching products in Africa, and the emergence of ‘light skins’. Seems like there is a bleaching wave that is not almost done till all dark-skinned girls are convinced to bleach! Beauty standards have always been questionable on skin tones. While dark is adored and enriched to an amazing melanin, light tone has been idolized as the real beauty. Banning skin lightening products has now became a national fight. Rwanda joined in the fight to eradicate skin lightening products together with South Africa and Kenya. They aim to remove the products from shelves but meanwhile in Nigeria they are being restocked enormously. This portrays the same
Joanne Kinuthia is no stranger to the world of make-up. She is the Founder of Joanne K Cosmetics and has been creating online content for as long as we can remember. She has an incredible fan base and when she launched her first beauty collection aptly named the Aspire Collection, in December 2018, we got incredibly excited. The collection consists of four matte liquid lipsticks and a gorgeous eyeshadow palette with 10 beautiful shades for the African woman. The whole collection goes
COUTURE NEWS | BEAUTY COUTURE AFRICA | 19
THE ANTICONTINENTBLEACHING
Venue: Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Nairobi
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Date: 9th February – 10th February 2019
Venue: Movenpick Hotel and Residences, Nairobi Somalia! Who would think of fashion when they think of Somalia? At least I had not thought of it before. Enter Somali International Fashion show (SIFF) - coming to Kenya for the first time with the goal of promoting fashion, popularizing and also promoting fashion individuals of Somalia, East Africa and Africa at large. The Designer Showrooms will showcase collections from both established and emerging brands across ready-to-wear, accessories and footwear, attracting an audience of international and East Africa press and buyers throughout the region.
TIMELESS WOMEN CONFERENCE
Date: 13th February – 15th February 2109
Date:FESTIVAL
FEB 2019 | EVENTS CALENDAR
February is the time for everyone’s favourite love-hate holiday, Valentine’s Day. But there is a lot more to the mini month than chocolates and roses. There are still plenty of things to do in the love city no matter your plans - and love life status. After all the festive season is barely over. So relax, COUTURE Africa has got you covered:
There is a need to include African women n the social and economic transformation of Africa. Why not? Women need to be empowered to optimize their potential and TWOW foundation is the event to attend. They will be holding the Timeless women conference, a 3-day event that will involve networking, dialogue on social and economic issues among others. Also included are lots of fashion, gala awards, timeless match making and much more. Register through the website, www. timelessconference.com
Venue: Kasarani Training Centre, Thika Road Sexy, sophisticated, laid back, smooth, mood setter and for the elite and classy! That’s what Jazz music stands for. The Safaricom International Jazz Festival is here with us once again and as is the norm, promises an unmissable show with great performances by over 10 acts being headlined by the highly acclaimed two time Grammy award winner Marcus Miller. The jazz crooner has been on top of his game for over 30 years and he clinched the winning slot of the 2010 Victoire du Jazz award in France. 2013 was also one of his best years where he bagged the prestigious Jazz Lifetime achievement award in Holland and also was appointed as the UNESCO artist for peace. His unmistakable bass sound can be heard on hit songs from Elton John, George Benson and Aretha Franklin just to name a few. Proceeds from the event go to the Ghetto Classics, a Safaricom beneficiary music programme that benefits children from Nairobi and Mombasa. This year’s edition will see the Ghetto classics broaden their wings to Kisumu.
15th February - 17th February 2019
SAFARICOM INTERNATIONAL JAZZ
SOMALI INTERNATIONAL FASHION SHOW
Venue: Zen Gardens, Nairobi
Date: 23rd February 2019
Venue: Michael Joseph Center, Nairobi
COUTURE EVENTS
NEWS |
FASHION HIGH TEA 9th EDITION
Date: 16th February 2019
TOUCH OF A GODDESS
Who runs the world? Girls, girls! Imagine all girls everything, from fashion, live music, designers, runway show, food, networking and mingling. If you have not yet heard of Usomi band, Acey Gracey Band and Hive Dj’s, you will get an opportunity to watch them live at the event of the month dubbed The Touch of a Goddess. Acey and friends have promised an event like no other. Bigger, better and more entertaining, this event will showcase the dopest ladies in town, as they express their truest selves and show their prowess and demystify the myth that women belong to the kitchen and that they are made of steel.
Want to merge fashion, shopping and society while you indulge in sophisticated atmosphere? Make a plan on what to wear to one of the most glamorous highprofile events in Kenya. The Fashion High Tea 9th Edition is exactly that with no other event having managed to surpass that fact. Hosted by Zen Gardens, the last events have garnered huge success as well as brought together local and international designers who have showcased exceptional designs. This year’s event promises to be no different. From pop up boutiques to high tea menu and unlimited drinks, where else would you want to be?
COUTURE AFRICA | 21
OurOutsociety seems to have lost the concept of a joke. You know that thing you say, flippantly, to a friend, without putting much thought into your words? That’s a joke. And it is not meant to be taken seriously. Unfortunately, we do not have that anymore. That flippant comment could get recorded and broadcast all over the world and outrage and forced apologies
TELEVISION Gay Jokes on Their Way
BOOKS
that it targets everyone at some point or another. With a library of over 300 episodes spanning 17 seasons, it beats us why Family Guy, a brand literally built on backlash and its politically incorrect humour, suddenly worried about what people think? Moreover, why are only gay jokes being phased out? Are jokes about race, disability and mental health still fair game? Although the show attracts both children and adults alike, maybe change is as good as a rest.
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Slay In Your Lane
COUTURE NEWS | CULTURE
Black women have currently been making waves – they have recently been creating something of a Tsunami and thriving against all odds and world’s expectations. However, they keep experiencing unique challenges in all aspects of their lives. And when Award winning journalist Yomi Adegoke and Marketing Manager Elizabeth searched for a book that could address such challenges, they realized none existed. Hence, Slay in Your Lane – the lovechild of exasperation and optimism – was born. Birthed out of frustration, this inspirational black girl bible offers an insight into the challenges that black women face in every sphere of life – from education, to dating, to work, to money and representation and offers advice and encouragement on how to navigate them. The book is illustrated with stories from Elizabeth and Yomi’s own lives, and from interviews with dozens of the most successful black women they have met in Britain. It also recognizes and celebrates the strides black women have made, whilst providing practical advice and inspiration for those who want to do the same. There are also some touchy subjects, such as the fetishization of black women and the media’s representation of black women and the micro-aggressions experienced on a day-to-day basis, such as people who can’t be bothered to pronounce what they deem to be difficult surnames. Being arguably the book of 2018, Slay in Your Lane is a must have.
may ensue. For context, the tweets that cost Kevin Hart his Oscars hosting job were homophobic. Hit television cartoon-comedy Family Guy also seems to be making adjustments in light of the fact, at least as it concerns homosexuality. Almost exactly 20 years since the animated sitcom first premiered on TV, Family Guy has decided to make an extremely un–Family Guy pivot; the show will reportedly scale back on the gay jokes. Historically, the show has operated from the default position that no subject is off-limits – from rape, to paedophilia and domestic violence – and where minority groups have claimed to have been targeted, its response has usually been
ART
For the Love of Street Art
The new docuseries Surviving R. Kelly continues to elicit varied reactions, despite legal threats from the disgraced R&B singer. The docuseries explores the disturbing sexual abuse allegations against 51-yearold entertainer. It includes more than 50 interviews with Kelly’s brothers, his former collaborators and even his alleged victims. For years Kelly's fans had heard rumours - and even made jokes - about him having a ‘thing’ for young girls. But now it is so hard to ignore that Kelly - who has often used his music to sell and glorify sex. The singer may never have felt the need to even address the allegations against him were it not for the momentum that #MeToo and Time's Up had started prior to Surviving R. Kelly. Last year, the Women of Colour group within Time's Up added their voices to the campaign to #MuteRKelly, a social media effort calling for a boycott of the singer's music. But now what? Are we going to rally around the alleged victims the same way Hollywood rallied around the victims of Harvey Weinstein and a host of other white males accused of sexual harassment? Will these women of colour be honoured for their courage like the white women behind the #MeToo movement? Only time will tell.
COUTURE AFRICA | 23
If#PlayKeMusicwearenotfightingforsomething, we are fighting against something. This is the Kenyan way of living and probably fighting it online. But recently, the #PlayKeMusic debate has proven to be more than just an online war. With most radios and TVs notoriously known for playing more Nigerian and Bongo songs that they do local music, the debate continues. Let us be honest though, aren’t we all culprits of enjoying a more bongo and naija music than we do our own? When all is said on Instagram and twitter, who is to blame? Is it the DJs, radio and TV presenters or the managers who prefer foreign over local content? Do we blame our local artists for producing ‘trash’ music? In the wake of this debate,
MUSIC
COUTURE NEWS | CULTURE
most Kenyans have also confessed that most local songs lack appropriate content and creativity and went further to support feeding on foreign content rather than local. We also have had local presenters harshly condemning local artists and pointing out that they ought to produce well-packaged songs. While involved parties have attempted meeting up and brainstorming on the way forward, with Jaguar and Joho promising to intervene with the government to put a certain restriction on foreign content and Khaligraph hinting on launching his own local music radio station, the war on Kenyan music airplay is far from over.
You find yourself through art, and art will never have borders or restrictions, unless it’s bad art! So, embrace your artistic eye the next time you want to stroll down the streets of Nairobi where 3 muralists having been changing the local aesthetic with art. Antoine, Alceo and Mathieu are three French artists (all members of ‘Street Art Sans Frontieres’) who signed on to Hephzibah’s Switch-a-Roo programme that travels all over the world with a mission to paint walls and introduce Kenyans, particularly children, to the joys of creating art. The artist accompanied her back to Nairobi where they’ve been painting street art since January 8th. Along the way, they have been joined by Kenyan artists including Naitiemu Nyamyom, Edmond Nonay and most recently, Namakula Muinde.
FILM Surviving R. Kelly
FEB 2019 | EVENTS CALENDAR COUTURE END OF YEAR PARTY
WHEN: 15th December 2018
It was a Christmas party fit for the fashion, art and music enthusiasts at the Couture Africa end of year Christmas party. Filled with fun and frivolity, the party was quite a craftstravaganza with fashion pop-up and exhibitions from various brands - Kangarui, Kipato Unbranded, Cocolili, Kitu Kali Africa, Zanta Adeyde, Crochet Hub, Kitenge Culture, Enanai and K shoes, art exhibition and African music by Papillon Band —all while snacking and sipping on holiday treats and cocktails perfect for capturing the magi of a Christmas.
COUTURE EVENTS
WHERE: The Couture House WHO: Fashion, Beauty and Art Aficionados
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WAZAWAZI
Telling African stories through functional luxurious African bags! Dark brown Nielein Travel Bag: KES 30,000 COUTURE EDITS 28 | COUTURE AFRICA
Mud cloth Ciru Special Edition Backpack: KES 12,500
COUTURE EDITS
HouseCoutureTheatlocationonShotLouieKhalifabyPhotography
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Yellow Luoch Clutch: KES 7,000
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HouseCoutureTheatlocationonShotLouieKhalifabyPhotography
Brown Amina Midi Tote Bag: KES 15,000
COUTURE EDITS
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Green Sanga Sling Bag: KES 12,500
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COUTURE EDITS
Black with hair Mo Messenger Bag: KES 22,000
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34 | COUTURE AFRICA
BRENDA WAIRIMU She Can Be Fearless Because It’s Not Pretend
COUTURE CELEBRITY
By Jackline Mukami
As an actress, Brenda is a pixie with an attitude. Cute, idiosyncratic, and fiercely intelligent, she is perfect for quirky, endearing characters that are rich in humanity and personality. The award-winning actress has featured in various productions including Subira [2018], Monica [TV Series], Disconnect, Shuga [TV Series], Mali [2011] among others. We had an opportunity to connect with Brenda. She shared her amazing career with us.
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Brenda Wairimu [BW]: If I think hard about it, I had always known that I wanted to be in the arts. I would consume a lot of movies and TV. But the actual acting began when I was about 20 or 21. That it when I got my first role.
CA: How would you compare the current Kenyan film scene to back then when you were starting out?
such decision making, and I hope to use that position well.
BW: It is more illustrious now. Slowly but surely people, especially the Kenyans are accepting thespians as contributing members of society. Our careers are now taken more seriously, and thanks to social media, our presence is getting more noticeable. As a result, more work is being put out. We are growing well.
it down in my own small way, but I cannot give out my secret of exactly how [laughs]. Sticking to your guns is important in any work space, standing your ground and picking your battles...even more so as a woman in this work space. We have to work smarter than the men, but really that's not so difficult. I'll be killed for this [laughs]
COUTURE Africa [CA]: When did you first get bitten by the acting bug?
BW: That is such a scary question, especially the role model bit. Personally, I want people to feel connected to my journey and to feel on some level that they too can achieve what they set out to, no matter the field they are in. And I am blessed to be a woman with the ability and position to influence
BW: Patriarchy is alive and well. I have a plan to take
BW: I do not believe in coincidences. The acting profession found me, and I found it. We found each other and tell you what, I am not letting go.
BW: It is true, this happens. However, on my part, this is purely hearsay. I have not witnessed it happen with my own eyes. I am a strong believer that people make decisions in their lives that are purely their own - I cannot judge or chastise. It is sad though, that more talented folks would miss out on opportunities in this way.
CA: So how do we get to be more gender sensitive and impact social change?
BW: By playing to our strengths, as different genders. But also, not seeing "weakness" of certain genders as that, but as room to grow and learn. The answer is love, we just need to be a little kinder and more thoughtful.
CA: You have been acting for almost a decade now. Are there areas that still make you flinch when watching your films? BW: [Laughs] all of them! I'll tell u a secret - even at the premiere of my movies, I never watch myself. Trust me I can find a way to be distracted for the entire length of the film or show. But I do watch myself when I'm alone. That's how I see what I did wrong or could have done better.
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CA: Do you feel empowered as a female actor in the 21st Century, when it comes to taking powerful female roles? In light of movements such as #MeToo and #TimeUp – do you feel like you are even more of a role model for women?
CA: There have also been allegations doing rounds for several years now about sex-for-role in the film industry in Kenya. Is it that prevalent?
BW: A common front always sounds good, but I am a believer in using what you have. As a young talented person, social media and the internet should be your oyster. Do your thing, put it out there and someone will certainly notice.
CA: Looking back now over your illustrious career, would you say that acting found you by chance, or were you naturally wired to be a screen goddess?
CA: Gender sensitivity plays a key role in cinema, through its acknowledgement or the lack of it. It is well known how differently the industry pans out for male and female actors. What's your opinion on that?
CA: There is a reservoir of raw and untapped talent in the creative industry. Don't you think a common front is needed to harness and promote these abundant talents with which we are blessed with, I mean the younger generation?
CA: Do you ever have shooting conflicts?
CA: Speaking as a mother of a little girl, what is the best experience that you can share about the motherhood journey?
BW: I dress how I feel. I have never been a long
BW: Thank you. It is all by accident [laughs]. I am not in charge of casting or roles that come up. I try out when I feel connected to a character, which happens to be all of them!! I love it though, I'll play them young as long as I can.
CA: You are a mother and an actress. What is the key ingredient juggling this amazing act?
BW: I am letting her do all that she enjoys. She is such a performer, but aren't all expressive kids? I will wait and see where she is drawn to...
CA: What do you see, or feel is the most beautiful aspect of people around you physically, spiritually and professionally, and why?
CA: You have been open about your relationship with Juliani. No doubt we admire that in you – but to clear the air for us.
CA: Apparently, you do not allow your age to dictate your filmmaking. Your roles are timeless and ageless. What is the secret?
BW: I would say my family, myself, love, courage and ambition.
CA: Who is the most beautiful person in the world to you and why?
BW: I think I still am.
CA: Are you encouraging her to walk in your foot steps to feather her nests in acting career?
CA: Have you ever been rebellious in your life?
BW: Sometimes. It is always best to lay down your requests and make your needs and what you are uncomfortable with known. Even before you take a job. It helps avoid such conflicts.
CA: The noise of being a public person is an issue you will wrestle with for the rest of your life, yes? How do you handle that?
BW: I honestly do not have one. I give my time where I need to. Prioritize is the word I think. My baby knows I go to work, but I always come back. And I'm going to look for money so we can have a place to sleep and food to eat. Thank heavens she understands all that now.
BW: Take it as it comes. I am a private person but I have never been secretive. I know what I signed up for, so I will just manage it as it comes and just as I have been doing before.
CA: The industry you are in calls for numerous public appearances as part of your job. Tell me what your considerations are in terms of wardrobe?
CA: What are five things that encapsulate the woman that you are today?
BW: That you experience selfless love, as selfless as is humanly possible at least. She loves me no matter what. For now that is. I say for now because I know she will be a teenager soon. Oh my God! I hope she will still love me then.
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BW: That I have people around me who are grounded spiritually and emotionally and that they love genuinely. These are people who offer me genuine help and advice. I try to choose the people around me carefully. I hope I am a good addition to their lives as well.
BW: My mommy and my baby girl. All children actually. I'm so sorry I cannot choose.
BW: Juliani and I were together for about 8 yrs. Currently we are just co-parenting.
CA: Let's talk about what it takes to be an actor in today's changing climate?
dress or gown girl. However, I have come to embrace that too. It makes me feel more grown you know. Otherwise I'm always in jeans and sweats. But all in all, I tend not to overthink of what I wear.
CA: I want to ask you a little about the notion of what is considered "beauty" today by an icon who epitomizes the perceived idea of it. How do you define beauty?
BW: Learn every day. Position yourself to be seen by people who matter. DONT STOP LEARNING.
BW: All of them. All the people I am yet to play and be.... I am in love with all of them already
BW: Subira is a young girl; a dreamer and a follower of her heart. She comes of age and does exactly what she set out to do. She finds strength in herself and memories she holds dear. Subira is all of us, she just had the guts to see her dreams through.
CA: Up to this point in your career, what was your most valuable acting takeaway?
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CA: Thus far, what has been the worst experience working in the industry?
BW: From my mother. She was the most fashionable person I know. Mixing prints, color and that wow factor. She had all that in her.
CA: How do you continually hone your craft?
BW: I believe beauty is me. Beauty is how my heart is feeling. If I feel happy and loved, I will feel beautiful. That being said, a woman is so much power - the way she looks, the way she carries herself and everything in between. A woman is all beauty. I think beauty is a woman. We need to know that and make it work for us.
BW: Always. I believe you cannot play a character you do not connect with. Even if it is in the way they stir their tea, or like their coffee. Find what makes the two of you one and you will ace the character.
CA: You recently won the award for Best Lead Actress in a Film, Subira. Congrats...
BW: I watch way too many movies. Like seriously watch them.
CA: Do you ever use any of your personal experiences to create your characters?
BW: Thank you!!
CA: Tell us about your character Subira?
CA: What is your dream role?
CA: You have managed to garner quite an enviable portfolio. How does it feel to know that you have won, and continue to win?
CA: You are known to be incredibly meticulous about image. From who do you coin your fashion inspiration?
BW: That it is not acting; It is reacting
BW: Not getting paid for work done. That's always the worst the worst experience. The rest are learning experiences.
BW: It has been a long journey getting here. Many actors can attest to the grit it takes for your career to be taken seriously. Even by the film industry as well, you know. It’s a journey for people to connect with you. I am thankful and I pray to never get to a point of being taken for granted by the people who watch our films and shows.
CA: What is in future for Brenda?
BW: I honestly have no idea - and I love that. God and the universe have been in control, and so far they are doing an amazing job. I'll just let them keep at it.
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Z A N T COLLECTIONA
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Zanta Adeyde is slowly becoming a household name in accessories design, and her 2019 jewellery collection definitely does not disappoint.
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Zanta Savannah: KES 4,000 COUTURE FASHION
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COUTURE GENTLEMAN
ALEX NYAGA Seeing The People Side Of Commercial Cleaning.
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By Jackline Mukami
Alex Nyaga is the Group CEO and one of the Founding members of the leading professional cleaning and allied solutions company in East African Region, Parapet Group of Companies – a company that boasts of an impressive portfolio of major premium clients and of being in the elitist group of the Top 100 mid-sized companies in Kenya. Through his stewardship and rigorous streamlining of all systems and procedures, Parapet Cleaning Services became ISO 9001:2008 certified in 2013 and has continued through its various surveillance audits to maintain its standards of excellence and distinction. This has also accorded him various achievements including one of the Top 40 under 40 business leaders in Kenya for two years running and feted as the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2014-2015. He also sits in various boards of companies such as Parapet Limited, Investment Cell Limited, Hygiene & Safety Systems Limited (HSS) and Rosehill Limited to mention but a few. He also has been a Rotarian since 2002 and the Founder and Charter president of the Rotary club of Nairobi - Langata.
AN: First and foremost, we have embraced new technology. We are always offering new and onestop solutions to our clients. We also have a high scale - we always get the big jobs done. We have embraced new and advanced technology that gives us the capacity to deal with big projects and work in multiple locations. Another competitive edge that we have lies within ourselves; the team. I jealously protect my staff which is rare with most organizations. Actually all my staff have my number, and mind you we don’t use titles to address each other. They address me as Alex. That’s the style of leadership we have put in place at Parapet.
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AN: Our first million thankfully, came from the contract with KQ Airport. I believe that when starting up any business, money should be the secondary factor. Otherwise, when you do it for money you tend to be greedy and burn bridges. You will definitely make money, but if that’s your main focus, then that dream is short lived. My dream was to sell passion, I chased a passion - and that’s why it yielded such great results.
CA: Is client acquisition ever a problem?
CA: Let’s start off by talking about that first million. What was it like when you guys hit that big number?
AN: We hire character and attitude. We are always looking for the go-getter’s kind of people with topnotch soft skills and positive attitude. Ideally, we do a thorough background check on our staff and then enroll them for a monthly training program on social skills and etiquette.
CA: How do you as an entrepreneur convince someone to take that kind of a risk on you? What do you say?
COUTURE Africa [CA]: How does a success story like this begin?
AN: Client acquisition is one of the things that gives me that adrenaline rush in the morning. I mean you have to chase it. You have to fight for clients; it’s not a thing that is just slapped on your lap. You have to build the network and a proper winning bid to get that client.
CA: How do you train staff such that they are switched on and ready for your clients?
CA: Is Parapet already in line with the ‘Internet of Things’?
AN: Yes, we are. Social media has been our biggest marketing tool. We have acquired clients through social media. We have also learnt to how to get feedback from our customers and use it for better services.
CA: You have mentioned KQ Airport as your first client. How many strings did you have to pull to land that contract? Who did you know? AN: There were no strings to pull. What happened is that I really saw the bug of organizations outsourcing for services really coming in – and I tapped into that. The exposure I had from Switzerland really played a part into this. This was also the first time KQ was outsourcing for cleaning services. It was quite a bold decision form the airport and we were the pioneer to offering such services.
AN: We are actually working on that. It is ready. The thing is the timing – we have to prepare the audience to embrace the app and navigate through it.
CA: “This is my first Parapet review, but the service was so horrible that I have to comment on it. Honestly, I haven’t hired another professional cleaning service after my experience with Parapet.” You respond couple of hours or days later. You respond to her and she is then happy. What do you do to make someone who’s that upset happy? How do you fix that?
CA: What are the biggest challenges in this kind of business?
CA: What would you say gives Parapet Cleaning services the competitive edge?
CA: And an app maybe?
Alex Nyaga [AN]: I would not call this a success story but rather a collection of experiences. When I started Parapet Cleaning services, it was out of a necessity to survive and achieve success. It was ultimately driven by my passion for housekeeping, so it came naturally to me to go for a career in cleaning. I, however, had not seen it as a big opportunity when I ventured into the business after my studies in Hotelier Management in Switzerland. We found people doing it, but I believe that what gave us a niche was that we were doing it different and brought professionalism and dignity into Ourcleaning.first client was actually KQ Airport. We got kicked out after 3 months – but this was a lesson worth learning at a very young age. We came back better. With that, I have seen cleaning evolve to a point where our clients appreciate the fact that cleaning is a science and an experience. Overtime it has started paying off. It has been a 20-year old journey of exciting times with over 4000 employees in four countries; Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and South Sudan. That’s why looking back, I define it as an experience.
AN: For one we are dealing with a business that is very highly maintenance and labor intensive. We also have requests to start new contracts with new clients. Albeit being a good opportunity, this comes with the challenge of money and expenses. Scaling up is a project by itself and requires financing. Another challenge is the sustainability of quality services. The pressure of maintaining consistency across regions comes with its own challenges. This is because different countries have different rules, different cultures and such. But then again, we take up on challenges as lessons in disguise every day.
AN: My principle rule is getting into something to build that relationship. So, whenever I am out there for business, I strive to build a relationship and give it my all. I have clients with whom we have done business with for close to 15 years. That tells you a lot about us. When you initially build a relationship with your clients, you tend to retain that customer for a long time with no excuse of withdrawal.
AN: We uphold our clients very highly. One of the departments that actually reports directly to me is the Customer Service. I am also an Admin to all of Parapet’s social media platforms. So whenever we receive a complaint, we issue a fast response. We call the client, establish the issue then take it up with the Operations team. We usually leave a one person point of contact who takes up the complaint
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CA: I presume then that you keep white sheets and arrange your shoes according to their sizes and occasion intended?
CA: What lies ahead for Alex?
CA: How does it feel having so many achievements listed under your name?
I try my best to allocate the best time possible to all my duties – to my businesses, my family and my strong pillar of social networks.
CA: This is all about user experience?
CA: What do you do for fun?
AN: Yes, I have been running the #BowTieThursday column on my IG every Thursday for two years. I dress up, lock a bowtie, look dapper and share my experiences and inspirational stories with my followers. Hopefully that inspires them.
AN: I want to die empty.
and manages the client. We are not the reactive kind of organization but rather the proactive kind – we are very involved with our customers.
CA: Will you ever retire?
CA: Sometimes I meet some of my friends, and they have different cars and they are all driving around in town, showing off all the technology in their cars, and I am thinking I am not here, but I am going to fight like mad when I am back in the office so that I can get there. Everything that I have been procrastinating, I am now going to get it done five times faster than I ever did before. Did that ever happen to you?
AN: Exactly, and it is deliberate. We do not have to wait for the customer to complain for us to react.
AN: I would say God. I am a believer and in greater sense this has helped me shape my values and hence the growth. On a secondary level, I have incredible support from my board. You know, the kind of team that mentors you, pushes you to get it done and celebrates success with you.
AN: I think it was a phase. I used to do art and calligraphy in school and actually make money out of it. I still apply art though – I am a creative. As Parapet, we get involved in some many activities that require creativity from gardening and landscaping to washroom hygiene to facilities management and much more.
CA: You are a person of great influence. If you could
CA: Being a cleaning guy, on a scale of 0-10, how
AN: Yes. I am OCD. I hate disorder. It collapses and brings disorder in my mind. I would go nuts finding things otherwise. You can imagine my house –everything, from my clothes to shoes has its specific spot and they are arranged according to their sizes. I am lucky enough the people around me understand that I am very clean.
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CA: We all want to leave some legacy. What kind of legacy do you want to leave?
AN: Our vision of building Africa and beyond still lies ahead of us. We want to continue transforming the cleaning industry and bringing hospitality excellence across the continent. I believe we have so many opportunities that will help us to continue serving people and doing it with a different flavour to it.
inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?
AN: Well, you have to be bold enough to wear crisp white pants on a hot dusty January.
CA: You are also serving in other organizations. How do you find the balance?
CA: And Deejay-ing?
AN: Yes, that is one of the other things I love doing. I do my own mixes. Maybe that’s one of the things I’ll be doing when I retire.
AN: I have two tattoos – an ostrich and a leopard. They represent my name and my wife’s respectively. It is part of my project after 40. I look to getting one tattoo each year.
CA: Let us talk about your love for art.
AN: No, honestly. I am not motivated by material things. That's the kind of pressure I do not want to keep to myself. The minute you package yourself for others, you bring more grief to yourself; and that can be very frustrating. It is too sad that social media has fueled that in some sense. People no longer post sad days; they do not grieve. I tell young people to work their own lane and enjoy it.
AN: I would join a movement of bringing change and moving people forward. A movement that is willing to give. Kenyans especially need to understand the power of giving relentlessly to others. I promise I would drive such a movement to success beyond average.
AN: There is a lot of time in people. All I have to do is know how to spend that time and when to say no.
CA: I’d say you are steps towards that with the #BowTieThursday
CA: None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are?
clean are you?
AN: I love swimming. I swim every day. The life of a busy CEO requires you to get into a nothing space and do something that gets you ultimately relaxed and give you some clarity.
AN: I feel humbled. One of the things I am proud of and really enjoying is fulfilling my purpose in life. That purpose being giving back to the nation and the society. And that is why I am a Rotarian – to add value to the lives of my peers and those who I mentor. I want to leave the world a better place.
AN: I was recently having this discussion with Peter Nduati. I think for me, retiring means leaving what I am currently doing and doing something different that still gives me joy. Imagine waking up and the biggest plan I have for the day is having my breakfast then get back to bed. That is very sad and depressing. I’d die. For me I’ll use that as an opportunity to do the things that I have always enjoyed to do. So yes, I’ll retire from Parapet and maybe travel. I would love to travel around the world. Or maybe sit in a foundation where I am adding value and mentoring young people.
CA: I noticed you have some tattoos…
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Photo by Helene Wikstrom and Lena Ulgenes
HEART OF AFRICA
Papillon
PHOTO BY NIELSPHOTOS BY FERNANDO AND ANUANG’A club/dance version
the video
Papillon will feature at the Gala Night of the Century at African Heritage House March 3rd for the launch of the magni cent double volume opus AFRICAN TWILIGHT by Carol Beckwith & Angela Fisher. 400 guests will board the train at the railway museum to African Heritage House for a carnival of cuisine, dance, costumes and fashion. The Legendary Ayub Ogada will start the show and Justo Asikoye from Jabali Africa will also perform. Guest stars include former Miss Africa Khadija and Perennial Mr. Kenya Mickey Ragos
AFRICANTWILIGHT
AFRICAN TWILIGHT is a double volume opus documenting the vanishing ritruals, ceremonies and cultures of Africa by the intrepid pair of photographers, Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher since their last book AFRICAN CEREMONIES was launched at the Millenium with 23 Kenyan hotels. AFRICAN TWILIGHT will be launched on March 3rd at African Heritage House when a trainload of guests arrive for succulent specialties from the best hotels of Nairobi, followed by a two hour extravaganza from Kenya’s African Heritage Festival, reconstructed by Alan Donovan, cofounder of African Heritage. Sally Karago will be presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her fashion designs, including this spectacular wedding gown of beaded Ugandan barkcloth studded with porcupine quills with two attendants also sporting porcupine quills. Contact for tickets and
African Twilight
AFRICAN TWILIGHT
is a double volume opus documenting the vanishing rituals, ceremonies and cultures of Africa by the intrepid pair of photographers, Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher since their last book AFRICAN CEREMONIES was launched at the Millenium with 23 Kenyan hotels. AFRICAN TWILIGHT will be launched on March 3rd at African Heritage House when a trainload of guests arrive for succulent specialties from the best hotels of Nairobi, followed by a two hour extravaganza from Kenya’s African Heritage Festival, reconstructed by Alan Donovan, co- founder of African Heritage. Sally Karago will be presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her fashion designs, including this spectacular wedding gown of beaded Ugandan barkcloth studded with porcupine quills with two attendants also sporting porcupine quills. Contact for tickets and information ahalan@africaonline.co.ke
information ahalan@africaonline.co.ke
Catherine Karl
Catherine Karl, the longest reigning head model of African Heritage will return to the catwalk in Nairobi for the Gala Night of the Century at African Heritage House March 3rd from Germany where she has been modeling for the past several years. She will once again wear the shimmering gold “Okene” cloth worn by all head models of African Heritage now on permanent display at Nairobi Gallery. Left one of Catherine’s cover stories before she moved to Germany.
COUTURE HISTORY H COUTURE AFRICA | 55
Catherine Karl, the longest reigning head model of African Heritage will return to the catwalk in Nairobi for the Gala Night of the Century at African Heritage House March 3rd from Germany where she has been modeling for the past several years. She will once again wear the shimmering gold “Okene” cloth worn by all head models of African Heritage now on permanent display at Nairobi Gallery. Left one of Catherine’s cover stories before she moved to Germany.
BEA
UTY
COUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP 1,600JacqueMgidoEye&BrowLinerPen:KES Primer:BLK/OPLInvisibleOilBlockingGelKES3,000 Lipstick:TrollMidnightMatteMAC 1,800KES BLK/OPL Colour splurge Eyeshadow Duos: KES 915 BLK/OPL True Colour Pore Perfecting Foundation Powder: KES 2,250
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GET THE LOOK
Using primer, pack the eyeshadow till a darker shade is achieved then blend towards the crease of the eye. Apply eyeliner gel, but ensure you leave space at the edge of the eye. Using a contour brush, apply the foundation and set it with powder. Blush lightly as desired with a warm orange blusher [this helps to warm up the face]. Choose a desired lipstick colour and apply.
Maybelline Eyeliner: KES 2,050 MACEyelashes:KES2,000
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BLK/OPLPatentLipsinJazzberry:KES MAC Blacktrack Eyeliner: KES 3,200 BLK/OPL Brow Shaper in Deep Brown: KES 1,050 ArdelleEyelashes:KES1,000 Sleek Blusher in Flamingo: KES 1,100 JacqueMgidoEyeshadowPalette:KES4,500 ESTEELAUDERPrimer:KES4,850 60 | COUTURE AFRICA COUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP
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CA: TWOW has been very successful over the years. In your view, what are some of the main drivers for that success?
TWOW was born as a need to empower women and girls in Africa. It is basically a platform for us to unlock the potential of Africa; both socially and economically through women. I had this dream of a prosperous Africa, of a food secure continent, of a production-based economy rather than a consumerbased economy, of a positively inspired population, of an innovative solution driven society who takes leadership and responsibility of its challenges and solutions, of a wealthy and prosperous nation! I truly believed that Africa had a lot of unlocked and untapped potential. That we were not poor, just our mindsets. That meant that I needed to have a formula or a strategy that will enable us achieve the greatness of this continent while am still alive. I saw this as my winning game and strategy. Someone needed to be driving this narrative and laying the framework and platform for its existence - to drive strategies, develop transformational models and solutions that would work for Africa, reshape the narrative of Africa and implement initiatives that would unlock the potential of Africa. The call became so strong and after 1 ½ years of pondering, visioning, dreaming, planning and praying –I stepped out and founded TWOW. It has been a challenging, exciting,
Nyakan Munyeki [NW]: 2004 was a turning point in my life as I faced a life-altering medical challenge while I was expecting my second child. They found out that I had a life-threatening condition which left me on bed rest for 5 months while on medication. In the midst of dealing with the sudden medical challenge that exposed me to the possibility of losing my life and that of the baby, I was forced to review my life’s journey to that moment. I played back my life up to that point in time. I realized that I had enjoyed various privileges and life was good. How then could I suddenly find myself in this life-threatening situation? As my life played itself before me, there was a glaring hole in my soul and spirit that left me empty, a number of questions played themselves in my mind over and over and over again. How had my life brought transformation to others? What was my legacy? I knew then that I was not ready to go yet. It became my turning point. And that was the beginning was TWOW. I knew that there has to be an organization that brought intervention and built a platform for like-minded people to create more leaders and people who thought solving the social challenges of Africa.
CA: What has been the reaction towards the movement?
By Jackline Mukami
NYAKAN MUNYEKI A Woman With A Purpose
COUTURE PROFILE 62 | COUTURE AFRICA
NM: One major driver is collaboration for business with other parties and support from like-minded partners and mentors who I’d call divine connections. It makes sense especially, to collaborate with men so that we can gather maximum support for the agenda of the women. For us in TWOW, men are the key partners in driving the whole women empowerment. I also have a very strong support system from God and my family. Another driver is impact – more people tend to believe in us when they can witness the impact we have created.
COUTURE Africa [CA]: In 2004, you were faced with a life altering medical challenge, how did that impact your perspective on living your best life now?
NM: Initially we were challenged a lot since Africans are quite hard to adopt a new concept. We were very innovative in terms of solutions, our modules and approach but the reception was still minimal. We are always going against the grain anyway, but after a while people started seeing the results of our initiative. They started to jump on the wagon for collaborations, to support and plug in. So far so good.
inspiring, intensive learning, fulfilling, impactful experience and the most rewarding decision I have ever made in my life.
Nyakan Munyeki was a computer scientist and a business process engineering expert. She had worked in the private sector for almost a decade with multinational companies - transforming businesses and driving companies to make money. She loved her job and life was good. That was until 2004 when she was faced with a life-threatening situation. But deep within her she knew there was something she definitely had not fulfilled. Passionate about championing change through space in Africa, Nyakan founded Timeless Women of Wonder (TWOW) Foundation. Couture Africa sits down with her to find out how her initiative has built transformative women’s leadership for social change and what inspires her philanthropic work.
About TWOW
COUTURE PROFILE HouseCoutureTheatlocationonShot|BeautyofCollegeLintonsofKasongoThrauphebyMakeup|LouieKhalifabyPhotography
NM: Interestingly, when I started out, I found myself in spaces of women movement and they used to introduce themselves as feminist. I never wanted to be associated with that title. I believe a feminist is someone who supports the agenda for women and who wants to restore the position and equity for women. I believe in equal opportunities for both genders. It took me more than one and a half years for me to figure out how I needed to position myself as a voice for women without getting biased. The reason why men actually fight women activists is because of the narrative of women saying that anything a man does a woman can do better. Now that sets the competition platform for rivalry. TWOW is not a platform for fighting men – we collaborate with them. I have never termed myself a feminist because I push an agenda for success for Africa.
NM: Initially, I used to be very conflicted. I used to feel like work was stealing me away from my personal life and vice versa. I was getting conflicted in terms of time and loyalty and guilt was consuming me. However, ten years ago I took time out and went into soul searching – I needed to find my clarity and purpose. I came into terms with what my purpose was at the time and still is; which is to unlock the potential of Africa. And now everything I do, whether in my personal life or personal one, it is always aligned to that. They blend seamlessly and
CA: Work in the social sector can be very personal and linked to one’s values. Can you think of a time when your values were in tension during your career and how you reconciled that tension?
CA: Beyond your work with TWOW, can you talk of other projects you are involved in?
CA: Nyakan in 3 words?
NM: Godly, transformational, and inspirational.
CA: How do you define success?
CA: What does the future look like? Do you see a silver lining?
NM: One is the women themselves – the women’s mindset. Most women don’t believe that they can do it and tend to downplay their values. Secondly, I’d say that sometimes we have unfavourable policies that lock women out of opportunities. You can only create gender equality in the workplace through policies. Generally, patriarchy, cultural and societal backgrounds create these barriers.
that feels quite rewarding.
CA: In your opinion, what are some of the main barriers to gender equality?
NM: Yes, there is. Every time I get an opportunity to interact with people, and more importantly young girls, I see souls that have grown to accept themselves and have a strong identity of who they are. I empower, inspire and motivate them to see the same silver lining and believe they can be whatever they want to be in life.
CA: What are your favourite self-development books and resources?
NM: I am also involved in Renewable energy,
education, innovation, technology and construction, design and landscaping in different sectors. I also chair the Global Innovation Society of Kenya. I also offer purpose coaching while doing a lot of strategy development and consultancy.
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NM: Success is not a one-off event but rather a day by day, milestone upon milestone set of achievements. It is doing what should have been done – shifting narrative and creating impacts. I use my vision as my compass point. If every day I do something that contributes to making that vision a reality, then that’s success. Success for me is also imparting into and building the next generationstarting with my children.
CA: After all these successful strides, what do you struggle with now?
NM: The struggle comes in while interacting with our beneficiaries, especially at community level. Many are the times we mobilize resources and opportunities that we feel would drive these communities out of poverty, but they miss out because of their mindsets. It is really sad that they miss out because of a mindset challenge.
CA: On a personal level, why does women’s empowerment matter to you?
CA: What is your approach to self-care? Are there any routines you use to survive and thrive?
NM: I am always reading multiple books depending on what is going on around me, projects I am working on and what areas I want to develop both personally and personally. Nevertheless, the books and resources have to touch on knowledge, innovation and research. Books that embrace the unconventional thinking, innovation, new ideas and strategies that result in successful enterprises and organizations.
NM: Women are what we call the bull’s eye. Whatever you put in the hands of a woman is guaranteed to multiply. Personally, it matters to me because I know it is safe to invest in women and you can never go wrong with that.
NM: Sleeping, praying and reading books particularly the Bible. Something that is always consistent with me is the prayer and devotion time.
CA: Have you been labelled a feminist because of your stand to support women?
COUTURE PROFILE
Earrings: Itty Bitty Jewellery
ELIZABETH AMUNGA HR Assistant
My personal style is simple, comfortable and unique. I prefer being smart casual both in and out of office. The occasions determine what I wear for the day. I admire Julie Gichuru's sense of style. She knows how to rock anything, make it decent and beautiful. Her style speaks elegance. I love earrings – they happen to be my favourite accessory. I would never be caught dead wearing bangles. I splurge most on shoes and bags. As far as my shopping habits go, I plan my shopping. I normally shop at Bata and City walk.
Earrings: Dubai
Dress: South Africa
Shoes: South Africa
Necklace: Itty Bitty Jewellery Dress: Zara Kimono: Zara Shoes: Zara
Top: Thrifted
My personal style is formal and comfortable. I am old-school, and considering that I am influencing so many young people around me, I go for wellfitting, decent and presentable clothing. Otherwise I have a free spirit – I like trying new things. I also love bright colours which I normally blend with black to tone down a little. My moods and the occasion influence how I will dress for the day. My favourite accessories are my earrings, my watch and lipstick; I feel lost without them. I also have my signature hair style to add on that. I also believe in a good beauty regime for my face. I creatively and fashionably define my own style. You will never spot me wearing high heels. I believe in quantity over quality – I still have items I bought in early 90s from Israel. I spot and buy when it comes to shopping. I normally shop in London and South Africa when I travel.
Watch:
Necklace: South Africa
By Jackline Mukami
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My personal style is simple, subtle and spontaneous. I always go for the formal and casual ensembles then mix and match them to create a chic, classy look. I always love dressing up. Black colour best describes my ideal wardrobe. The occasion mostly determines my dressing. Given a chance, I would switch my wardrobe with Kate Middleton. She is naturally beautiful and does not go overboard with her outfits. Her style also happens to be very unique. My favourite accessory is my watch. I would never be caught dead wearing chockers. I spend most on dresses; skater dresses in particular. I am more of a spontaneous buyer than a planner. I normally go thrifting since it is guaranteed to get unique pieces from there.
Heels: Platform Shoes: Shoeholic Kenya
My personal style, which is not different from my look is classy, edgy and spontaneous. As artists, we have been given the power to be experimental and spontaneous and be ourselves and that gives me the platform to be different and have fun with my dressing. The weather determines how I’ll dress for the day. Locally, I admire Wandia Gichuru’s sense of fashion. She is the epitome of perfect dressing. Internationally, I admire Victoria Beckham’s classy style. My favourite accessory is my wedding ring. Also, I would never leave the house without welldone brows and laid down edges. However, you will never spot me wearing a bralette. I splurge most on dresses. I am more of a planner when it comes to my shopping habits. I normally shop in malls.
WHAT WOMEN [AND MEN] WEAR TO WORK
Head Wrap: Thrifted
just something that happens after hours. Image is everything and you have to look amazing in the office environment too. The COUTURE Africa Team goes on a monthly hunt for the most stylish work environments.
FashionUSAisnot
Glasses: Optica Dress: City walk Coat: City walk Shoes: Bata
DR. JOYCE GIKUNDA Director
COUTURE CULTURE | OFFICE STYLE
JULIE NSAMBYA
Earrings: Forever Trendy Necklace: Dubai Watch: Gifted
Skirt: Thrifted
ANDY NICOLE Lead Trainer
Skin Care And Makeup Artist Trainer
Bracelets: Gifted Shirt: Bossini Pants: LC Waikiki Shoes: Westlands Watch: Gifted
COUTURE CULTURE | OFFICE STYLE
HILDA ZAKIA Nail Trainer
My personal style is trendy and classy. It is however not that different from my office look. I dress in the morning depending on the occasions I have ahead of me. I would never leave the house without my watch – it is quite sentimental to me. Since I am not into trends and fads, I define my own style. I do not have any particular personality I would say inspires my fashion sense. I also do not have boundaries in terms of what and what not to wear. I spend most on shoes with a growing collection by day. I do not have a specific store where I do my shopping – I normally spot and buy.
Dress: Custom-Made Shoes: Kampala
JUDITH CHEBET Creative Trainer
Earrings: CBD Necklace: Maasai market Watch: CBD Rings: CBD Top: Maasai Market
Earrings: Mr Price Dress: Toi Market Kimono: Toi Market Shoes: InStyle
If you are one of the lucky few to work in a casual setting, there is a thin line between being casual and being too casual or creative in your dressing. Lintons College of Beauty is among the lucky few. Read through to find out how their unspoken wardrobe gospel can run off on you.
LINTONS COLLEGE OF BEAUTY
WILSON ODIYO
Digital Marketing And PR
Smart casual, comfortable yet trendy best describes my personal style. It is however, not different from my office look. They both blend seamlessly. I go for pieces that ease pretty well with any occasion and weather. I carry myself as a brand, so when I wake up I know I am dressing Winnie the brand. And that is why I identify so much with Beyoncé. She knows how to dress the brand in her. My favourite accessories are my rings – they are part and parcel of my dressing. Anklets. I would never be caught dead wearing anklets and waist beads. As far as my shopping habits go, I am more of a planner. I shop spontaneously for my shoes. I splurge most on shoes, dresses and good hair. I normally shop at Biashara Street.
Lintons College of Beauty is a team of passionate beauty enthusiasts, under Lintons Beauty World, a leading beauty company in East and Central Africa that prides itself as East Africa's premier distributor and retailer of high-end beauty & skincare products and designer fragrances.
Simplicity wrapped in elegance best describes my personal style. This also applies to my office look. My moods determine how I will dress for the day ahead. I draw my fashion inspiration from Karl Leger. As a fashion designer, his sense of style is so elegant and clean. Locally, I admire our President’s sense of style. You will always spot me with my watch; otherwise I feel so underdressed. I will splurge on shoes over anything else. I have a tendency of buying shoes spontaneously. I shop anywhere as long as what I spot appeals to my taste. I am more of an impulse buyer.
Earrings: CBD Top: Zara Pants: MRP Watch: Titan Shoes: Backyard Shoes
WINFRED HALONYERE College Administrator
My personal style is bold, artistic and quite different. It also happens to easily transitions to my office look. My position as a creative trainer determines my overall look for the day. I have to look the part. I am unapologetically into trends and appreciate variety. I admire Rihanna’s sense of style. She is bold, experimental and goes all out with her style. My favourite accessories are my rings, nose rings and earrings. Considering my physique, you would never catch me dead wearing wide-legged pants. That trend has never sat well with my personal taste. My ideal wardrobe is a mix of very trendy and afro-centric pieces. I spurge most on good shoes. Spot and buy best describe my shopping habits. I normally shop at Miniso.
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A Special Kind Of Art
COUTURE CULTURE | HER STYLE KATE WAMBUI
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CA: Your makeup artist idol(s)?
KW: Internationally it has to be Duckie Thot while locally I’d die to have Ajuma Nasenyana.
CA: Does make-up artistry pay?
Fiji Current read?
COUTURE Africa [CA]: Your make-up artistry journey begun...
By Jackline Mukami
KW: I always emphasize on good skin care for everyone. It is the mother of a flawless skin. In addition, then you can use the eyebrow pencil for shaping your eyebrows, some eyeliner to emphasize your eyes, lipstick or lip gloss and a BB cream or powder to even out your skin.
CA: You have done such beautiful work on so many celebrities. Who have you not worked on that you would kill to get into your chair?
KW: Most people do not understand their skin undertone and basics about foundation. I used to have the same problem when starting out.
CA: You could still have tried farming, why makeup?
KW: Goodness, social media, Instagram to be specific, is my office! I would be devastated if my account was hacked right now. I have really invested on social media to promote my business. It is my portfolio. You need a really strong social media presence to make it in this industry.
KW: It is really interesting because this was the last thing on my mind. I was so sure I would succeed in farming since I had given it my all. I did the same with makeup – I had the confidence it would work. I also happened to draw my inspiration from makeup artists who are doing well out there, the likes of Muthoni Njoba and Nzilani. These are people who made me believe that I could actually make money from makeup.
CA: How has the industry evolved since you started?
CA: Worst beauty faux pas?
is just meant to enhance your facial features not try to change you to someone else. Makeup just brings makeup to another level.
KW: Lip gloss or lip balm, mascara and sunscreen.
Favourite dish? Seafood
CA: What area of the make-up industry is your favourite and why?
The media industry does not play nice as well. I feel that they only focus on one area of makeupbeauty. They never go out there, do their research and discover that there are awesome makeup artists doing more than just beauty.
CA: In this day and age of Toddlers & Tiaras and 20-something-looking tweens, is there an age you, as a makeup-artist and mom, consider too soon for girls to begin wearing makeup on a regular basis?
CA: Product that you have repurchased the most over the years
His needs and hers by F. Harley What’s in future for Kate?
COUTURE CULTURE | HER STYLE
Kate Wambui [KW]: When I went through my first retrenchment back in 2015 after being in the corporate for seven years. That is when I realized I should have had a side hustle. I was later called back, tried farming while at it but failed terribly. I was never a makeup person per say but I used to know a bit of tricks and hacks about it. So, I enrolled in a makeup school - Makeup by Rose. One year later, I left the corporate world and decided to take up on makeup artistry full time. In 2016, I founded and registered Kanai Beauties which is a makeup brand that specializes in bridal makeup, special effects makeup, commercial shoots and editorials. And funny enough Couture Africa was my very first gig.
CA: What is your top tip for the girl at home trying to look fresh and ready in ten minutes?
KW: House of Tara foundation. It covers a whole range of women; from the lightest to the darkest skin tone.
2019 is a bomb year for me. It’s all about executing ideas and securing the bags.
If you are beauty obsessed and follow makeup artists and trends, raise your blush brush now! I’m not talking about YouTube and Instagram trends like using a Louboutin shoe to contour; I’m talking about following OG makeup artists with years of experience and talent we only wish we had. If your brushes are raised, keep on reading to know how Kate of Kanai Beauties founded her line, why makeup is empowering, and ways we can start to witness real change in the beauty industry.
KW: Commercial and editorial make-up looks since this is where your creative juices flow. These are areas that get you out of your comfort zones since they involve creating looks which are rather not normal. You have to think outside the box. There is also special effects (sfx) looks which are quite interesting to create.
CA: You have an impressive portfolio. How would you describe your signature look and what is it about your style that sets you apart from other makeup artists?
KW: Well, there is no right age for girls to start using makeup. What there is, is makeup for different agegroups. The way I’ll do make up for a 30-year old is quite different from makeup of a girl attending her prom night.
KW: Yes, but for the fun of it. We usually do our makeup on Sundays which I then wipe out and leave her with just lip gloss – just to let her satisfy her curiosity and let her express herself in whatever way.
CA: The use of make-up and how beauty is perceived is still a challenge many face today in society. In your opinion, how can we break down these archaic standards?
KW: I believe you first have to work on yourself as a person. You have to build on that self-esteem to the point that you can confidently wear your natural self and view makeup as just something to enhance your beauty.
KW: I would say yes. At the end of the day makeup
CA: What have been the major challenges you have witnessed in the industry?
KW: It has grown tremendously. Makeup is getting more embraced unlike in the past. Every job in the creative market nowadays requires a makeup artist. There is always a budget for a makeup artist. Professionals are actually making money from it – you just have to play your cards right and align yourself with the right people.
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KW: Eventually it does. It just takes a lot of time, hard work and smart thinking for make-up artistry to start paying. The trick to establishing yourself is meeting the right people, at the right place and at the right time. If you enter into this business with the mindset of making instant money you will fail.
CA: Beauty Instagram profiles have become a major influence on the beauty industry, but you keep yours quite personal, how important are social platforms for you?
CA: Three make-up items no woman should leave home without?
CA: Would you encourage your daughter to use makeup?
CA: You regularly work with some of the most beautiful women in the industry. How does that shape your definition of beauty? Does everyone look better with makeup?
QUICK FIRE
KW: Getting the makeup products can be quite pricey to begin with. Another challenge is that most people out there don’t understand the investment and skills you put in the business –so they take it for granted. They keep negotiating and expecting you to break down the price of products used. Then we have friends and relatives who feel entitled to free makeup and discounts.
KW: The fact that I am versatile. I always strive to do an amazing job be it editorial, commercial, special effects or bridal. I think my signature look are the eyebrows. You can always tell apart eyebrows I have done for a client from others. My makeup philosophy is: do not change how people look.
How would you describe your personal style? Chic and comfortable. My everyday looks revolve around track pants, jeans and sneakers
KW: I have been a waitress before, I am very good with guns; I won the Target shooting competition in 2006 and I can wear heels and dresses.
YSL lipstick
Favourite vacation spot?
CA: Three random facts about you that few know about…
KW: Jordan Hanz and Deshawn Hatcher.
Luxurious beauty product that you own?
CD: I remember an audition I went for Vaseline while so green in the industry and I messed up some lines. It was so humiliating – I promised myself I would never go for auditions again. However, I came to learn that rejection is part of the work in the modelling industry. You will not get every job, but that that should not affect the next job you are going to get. Everything is about attitude. So, I never take it personally when I am rejected.
CA: What is the most ‘in-demand’ element in the modelling industry?
COUTURE Africa [CA]: I assume that your childhood dream was not to be a model. So how did your journey into modelling start?
CA: Does that mean working out 24/7?
CD: Yes, that is true. I believe female models are more into the industry than the males; and the male models that we have happen to be more into the runway than the editorial and commercial modelling. I felt that this is a gap that I could fill. As much as I was into modelling and I knew my strengths, I needed to consider the business part of it.
CD: Good physique.
CA: Which one has been your favourite campaign/ shoot /editorial/show so far and why?
CA: Most models say that commercial modelling is hand-to-mouth. And alcohol, cigarettes and fragrance campaigns are where the money is. How true is this?
CA: What are the pros and cons of being a male model?
By Jackline Mukami
COLLINS DOMINIC Take It From A Male Model
Collins Dominic [CD]: It definitely was not. The idea to join modelling came up while I was in Campus studying Community Development. A friend suggested I try modelling during the Mr. and Miss. Egerton which I didn’t win, albeit the confidence and all the work I put in it. I also happened to be so much into the runway, but my height standards were not fitting since I am 5’8 yet the runway standards are 6’0. Being so green in the market meant I didn’t know which market to attract. I ended up bitter and frustrated. I did not give up though. I approached a photographer for a portfolio, and we did some concepts with wide range of themes. From then, I started to grow and people started noticing me. I eventually developed my personal style, and this helped me establish what kind of modelling I would pursue: Editorial and commercial modelling.
CA: What are the hurdles/challenges [Read: Rejections] you have faced? How have you handled it?
CD: Not necessarily. I personally work out four times a week and watch my diet.
In an industry where arrogance and ego is the norm of the day, Collins, an editorial and commercial model, comes across as a true gentleman; humble, grounded and a professional - whose sense of sprezzatura and a penchant for ensembles has caught the attention of the street style set. He speaks straight from his heart of what it means to be Collins, of the male modelling industry and how he defines success.
CD: I would say the launching of the Telkom Kenya brand. It was quite a highlighting moment of my career.
CA: Is it true that male models earn less than females? Because they don’t sell brands like women do?
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CD: The best thing would be getting to see your personal brand being appreciated out there. On the flip side, people expect you to be on top of your game every day. You never know when you will be called upon for a project and you get pushed too hard from your comfort zones. It’s a good thing but then again it is too much of unnecessary pressure.
COUTURE CULTURE | HIS STYLE
CD: It depends on the kind of job you have with the client and the span of time the brand is being promoted. It’s not a hand to mouth kind of job. However, it is true that cigarettes and beer sell a lot since they are the most commonly used products, as well as mobile networks since they are always advertising.
CA: We rarely hear of male models…
CD: Partially yes. However, it entirely depends on the brand itself. Of course, female models will get more gigs than male because we have more female-oriented
CA: You are under 6 feet which in “modelling” terms is considered rather short, has your height ever been considered an obstacle in a gig?
CD: Modelling is purely creativity. All these ideas and concepts boil down to creativity. You are just not an object on set unless you allow yourself to be used as one.
CD: That they are egoistical, narcissists or even gay. These stereotypes should end.
CA: What do you consider the most common stereotype about male models?
COUTURE CULTURE | HIS STYLE
CA: Do you have modelling boundaries?
STYLE BOX
CA: Your professional icon?
CD: Yes I do. Before I do any collaboration, I need to know the about product first and if it conflicts with my personal branding. I am always going for jobs that compliment my personal style.
How would you describe your personal style?
Boxers.
Grooming products that you swear by?
Favourite fragrance? Hugo Boss
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CD: David Beckham.
ModeltheofCourtesyPhotos
Lip balm and cologne. Collins in three words?
CA: You do not have much brains to speak of though?
CD: I do. It is healthy in a positive kind of way. I know I look good but I do not let it get in my mind.
CA: Is there a way to be creative in this job? Or are you just an object and a clothing hanger on set?
CD: Yes. Social Media has been my biggest marketing platform. I have gone to places because of social media. Actually, every aspect of what I am doing is inspired by social media.
CA: How do you feel about nudity?
CA: Do you in the mirror at all and say, “OK, I see what other people see in me and that’s what is making me a success.”
CD: Hard work, good looks and luck.
CD: First of all, I’m not signed into any agency. I am a freelance model. This is because I feel that some agencies are there to exploit the models. Many are the times models will complain of poor pay or poor representation, but the agencies will do nothing to protect their rights. I hope these issues will be corrected with time.
Versatile, eclectic and quite spontaneous. Suits and ties or jeans and sneakers? Both Boxers or briefs?
CD: The stereotypes! Models have brains.
CA: Thank goodness for Instagram [and Facebook].
CD: Nudity is an expression of art and art is amazing. I am not against nudity – it actually inspires me to express art through my body.
CA: Put these factors in line of importance? Hard work, luck, good looks.
CA: Would you agree that as a model, you are part of a culture that can make people feel so bad about themselves that some develop eating disorders?
Garages and workshops. Passions outside of modelling? Photography
CD: I do not think we do. There is no way I am going to influence someone unless they are not strong enough and they suffer from identity crisis. The right esteem and the right mindset will have you thinking otherwise.
Garages and workshops or massages and manicures?
products than males. Most brands target women so it goes without saying that female models will endorse the said products.
Modest, risk-taker, and passionate.
CD: I am currently focusing on building my personal brand and getting into more projects and of course inspire more people with my style.
CA: What is in future for Collins?
CA: Sometimes the modelling industry gets a bad rap between the models and agencies. Have you ever encountered this? Have you managed to tough it out?
CD: Yes, when I started out it my height was much of a challenge. I was so much into runways; and they happened to have standard requirements. I couldn’t fit. But what I do right now is different, and my height is no longer an issue. I think working on yourself and being able to capitalize on your strengths and image is what is more important and crucial.
Behance:
The creative heads of today are having it easy with the emergence of apps so cool that they no longer have to chew the end of their pens when ideas fail to come automatically. While some may say technology is killing creativity - we say never! In fact, there has never been a better time to be a creative than right now. But, if your inner artist is feeling a bit drained and creativity is giving you the cold shoulder - warm it up with these lively apps and let your inner creative blossom with just a few taps.
PHOTO SCAN:
Illustrator DRAW:
Adobe has added another free app on iPhone that is also worth downloading just like most apps on iPhone. You just need one thing; besides yourself. A Creative Cloud ID. Just like Assembly, it has a starter pack of brushes, pen tips, layer blend modes and merging options. This app is ideal for creating dope art on your phone. It allows you to create illustrations on your phone and refine them. The inbuilt graph and grids and also allows you not to lose perspective as you sketch. You can work on up to eight thousand canvases and send your layered files straight to Illustrator CC with just a tap.
PRISMA:
Technology plus google has to be the best thing that ever happened to today’s world. For the professional photographers, iPhone has you sorted with this great and free iPhone app from Google called Snapseed. It is designed to be a complete and professional photo editor. It’s designed with 29 tools and filters, all of which can be stacked and used to edit and perfect your photos fast. It works with both JPG and RAW files.
CREATIVE APPS FOR THE CREATIVE
Wondering how to make that 18th century photo album look like the future which is now? Well, your search ends here. Google just made our work easier with the introduction of Photoscan. All you need to do is take an old print, shoot it from whatever angle that makes you happy and the app will automatically resize, rotate, and enhance or whatever else you want it to do. Easy peasy! The copy is as good as new.
COUTURE
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SNAPSEED:
By Wambui Waruingi
TAYASUI:
Sketches never looked so real. This app is as bright as it sounds, what with all the vibrant colours that Tayasui Sketches offer plus the most realistic drawing tools possible, on iPhone but also available on android tablets. There are over 20 tools, including water colour brushes. You get an option of blending two colours to get the perfect shade as well as painting large areas with just one stroke. It uses a layer and makes the work easier to edit.
There always comes a time when we are all short on inspiration but Behance has just the solution to that. They have a better way to browse when you're on the go. It’s a free app on iPhone that enables you to explore thousands of projects of all kinds, and gives high-quality images on full-screen. It also enables you to take a sneak preview of other designer’s unfinished work for a whole 24 hours as well as post your unfinished work and get instant feedback.
Free, 120 million users, App of the year award in 2016, Over 300 art styles, need I say more? Prisma is a free iPhone app and its sole function is to make your pics look like paintings; it boasts of an effects library. Anyone would be easily fooled into believing that the photos are actual paintings by Picasso and the likes. This is definitely a must have app for the art fanatics.
PAPER:
We all want to create logos, icons, and more using powerful, easy to use features, right? These are usually only found in professional desktop software. Enter Assembly, the perfect creative tool. It is the revolutionary vector design tool that lets you produce quality work in no time. You can cut, intersect and combine shapes and create sophisticated graphics, ideal for artists of any background, with or without any skill level whatsoever! With this app, you can design anything anywhere.
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SPARKPOST:
INKVITE:
ASSEMBLY APP:
The newest social way to write is through Inkvite, the ultimate writer’s app. You can get to be a part of the writing community on the app store. How cool is that? It is available on the app store for iOS devices only. It lets you join hands with others and help produce a single story, read others work, post yours and promote yourself to further your brand and is an excellent app for those who like their writing with a side of collaboration and interaction. You can make a friend or two through fiction!
Sketch, draw, diagram, colour, and write notes, you name it. Paper has to has to be the most immersive app for capturing ideas anywhere. It boasts of over 25 million followers who have found their creative space in this app. No matter what the inspiration, you can get it down on Paper. Find your creative flow, sketch with confidence, work on the idea and not the tool, arrange and customise your space and then become a pro. Capture your ideas in beautiful, 3D Journals that keep your focus in check. Fast, gesture-based navigation makes it easy and natural to use Paper.
Another one from adobe! Spark post is here, and it offers a fast and supper fun way to make stunning graphics and you need zero experience. Its templates let you add photos, text and filters and allows you to create any style you wish and you also get to share your creations via text or email. It also allows you to resize your designs to fit any social platform as well as animate your designs. How about that!
COUTURE CULTURE | DÉCOR
For some lucky creative spaces, the days of dull and drab cubicle spaces and a drip coffee machine are long gonewith parties involved now realizing that inspiring surroundings can have direct effect on their creativity. They do not have to be located in famous buildings – a tranquil setting, games area, or amazing design office mural can all help stir the creative juices. Take this office décor ideas to soup up your office with elements that keep you and your team productive, inspired and motivated every day.
COUTURE CULTURE | DÉCOR
DÉCOR CREATIVE FOR THE MODERN OFFICE
By Jackline Mukami
For the love of all that's holy, please, please do not subject your people to soul-destroying posters of eagles and inspirational phrases! Depending on the line of work you are in, this could also give you a tailor-made way to extend your company’s marketing message to a whole new audience. Art can make your workspace look a lot more interesting and thoughtful. Keep it simple with black and white wall hangings or go bold with vibrant, eye-catching works that brighten your day every time you walk past them. A little inspiration goes a long way!
Think about creating an enlarged picture of your company’s mission statement and plastering it in a common area. Seeing your company’s mission on display every time you walk in the office can be an effective way to showcase the values your business embodies, and a great reminder to carry them out.
Speaking of office atmosphere, each space in your office should have its own feel. Incorporate adjustable office chairs for desks, low level cushiony and colorful stools for casual use, chairs without armrests, or customized chairs to suit the theme of the room make for really cool office decor. You might want your conference room, for instance, having a more serious, get-down-to-work feel with the neutral colors while bold colors and eclectic furniture would be appropriate for your breakroom to elicit fun and laughter.
Arty Office Art
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Some Funky Furniture
Display Your Values
Office Vibes
What’s not to love about crazy looking couches? Having funky furniture around like patterned curtains and cobalt blue lamps transforms your traditional office space into a futuristic workspace that your friends will envy. Adding “out there” furniture also creates a new and informal space for your team to meet, which fosters collaboration. There are so many options for swaged out coaches, chairs and tables and the likes these days. From architectural chaise lounges to animal print ottoman chairs, you will find some furniture that speaks to your brand, guaranteed.
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The Outdoors, Indoors
Good lighting is one of the most important elements of a well-designed office. You could have your space equipped with the most unique furniture, the best color combinations and chic desks, but none of that will truly shine unless you have the right lighting. Since natural lighting is always best, keep all window areas unobstructed to fill your workspace with as much natural light as possible. If your windows have blinds, keep them open during office house.
Your team probably puts in extra-long hours, and sometimes the best way for them to regroup and reboot is by making time for a few minutes of fun. Make the guys take themselves less seriously and more open to brainstorming by taking them slightly out of their comfort zone. Create a space where they can let loose by either installing pilates balls instead of chairs in the meeting room or swings in the creative rooms.
Focus on elements that echo the natural aesthetic: wood, cane, bamboo and other naturally sourced materials. You could also get a love plant that will survive and look great, or if you know you will kill it, arrange your desks to face outside.
A POP of Colour
Colors affects how productive you are – they put the “pow” in “powerful”. So why not have a hefty dose of vibrancy in your office? It will stimulate your creativity and keep you on your toes. If you Google “most productive color,” you will find many results that suggest the answer is blue. This evokes emotion into your mind-stimulating room. Blue colors affect your mind, red your body, yellow your emotions and green your “balance.” By combining these colors, you can greatly influence your work behavior. However, when choosing a color scheme for your space, incorporate your brand’s colors so your space really upholds a consistent style reflective of what you and your business are all about.
Nature is the greatest designer. Any glimpse of nature has been shown to boost creativity so make sure you incorporate some way for your team to connect with the great outdoors. Find inspiration in the patterns and textures of organic forms—from huge floral prints to rustic antlers, botanical fabrics to living greenery. Whether your office is in sunny Diani Beach, bustling Nairobi life, or somewhere in between, it should feel like an extension of the city it inhabits and the people who work there.
Let team members personalize their spaces since everyone has their own taste and personal style when it comes to décor. Your team will take pride in making the space their own. Encourage them to integrate any elements that will keep them motivated throughout the day. This can be something simple like a colorful planner that keeps them on track or something extravagant like a mural of their favorite artist.
Introduce Some Play
A Touch of Personality
Highlight Natural Lighting
The vibe
The impression when you step in is that of a casual dining without all the preconceived fuss of thick tablecloths, chandeliered dining spaces, dishes served in heavy shiny silver plates, a battalion of skimpy-dressed waiters hovering around waiting to serve to your every need and how expensive the whole experience will cost. It’s very much at odds with some of the bombast and clatter of recent testosterone-drenched openings. In fact, the dining room was almost silent. A wall with a variety of drinks evoking a party mood in the wild captivates your attention from the moment you walk. The rest of the décor is stark – cream walls, cloth less tables and soft furnishing. Two tables were occupied by hush-hush business meetings and the rest waited quietly with soft music in the background.
This then was the untamed yet lovely setting that we walked into when we honoured an invitation to sample their favourite meal.
The all-day menu offers up everything from classic chicken tikka masala to grilled Sirloin steak to lemon butter fish as well as a butcher’s
Getting back to work after the holidays is never quite fun, especially when you are faced with just fries and coffee at your desk in place of a sumptuous lunch overlooking a sun-drenched vista. But help is on hand thanks to Wildly Coffee, when we recently decided to relive the holiday spirit at their restaurant. Located at Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) in Lang’ata and a few hundred yards from the nearest public road, the restaurant is surrounded by acres of parkland and forest meant to take good care of the nature lovers drawn to the wild. As the name suggests, the restaurant seeks to fuse your dining experiences with wildlife conservation and entertainment by serving up nature-inspired meals. This is with the intent of being known as the perfect destination for casual dining with the wild. And by wild, I mean warthogs, baboons and monkeys which you can spot hovering around.
The staff seem to be genuinely happy to see you. They care – whether that is ensuring that I have a cup of cappuccino as I await for their Hotel manager or guiding us through their menu highlights. They offer us a menu, which rather than a boring piece of paper, we get a well-detailed mini-magazine minus images. And it featured classy comfort food that looked good enough for us to frame. I do not fail to ask why they do not have pictures to accompany the meals –which they clearly explain that most customers know which meal they want, and after all no customer wants to go through pages after pages of a menu just looking at pictures.
WILDLY COFFEE GET RID OF THE HOLIDAY BLUES
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Menu Highlights
The Chef of the day, Faith Mureithi and her respectful and warm team are determined to meet the high quality for which wildly coffee is known for. Mind you, the place was not as busy as it usually is other days, so we definitely enjoyed undivided attention. Faith promises us to expect flavour and combinations we can
The Verdict
COUTURE CULTURE | RESTAURANT REVIEW
only dream of. She did not disappoint.
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block. The drinks menu is well worth a mention, too. The drinks list is well annotated with full tasting notes, which make navigating the lesser-known bottles a dream. Most notable is the Wildly sour cocktail - inspired by the wild game roaming around. It is a beautiful drink made of William Lawson, crème de menthe, Kumaka wine with a top up of Sprite Soda and grenadine syrup. And if you are not a cocktail fan, fear not, for Wildly Coffee has plenty of other drinks options to choose from, so no need to leave thirsty.
For fruit Salad, the banana ice cream salad is greeted with a “wow” when it arrives. The salad is full of texture and taste, with the freshness of added strawberry hitting your mouth as soon as you lift your fork. It is served with refreshing cherries to cut through the richness and vanilla ice-cream so rich you can, for a moment, imagine you are back on holiday.
The added piquant ooze of parmesan cheese was a “triumph”, enhancing the flavour of the salad. It was a representative of what was to come: uncomplicated, skilful and Kenyan. We gladly would have ordered another portion but we had a main dish to devour. Chicken tikka with vegetable rice and tomato salsa for the kachumbari. Polished, had a bit of glamour but also featured understated elegance – we both did enjoy the umami of the dish. And do not forget the accompanying side sauce- raita sauce. It was surprisingly delicious thanks to its subtle sweetness.
My dear fellows, Wildly Coffee does not have anything as gauche as a vibe. An ambience, maybe. Or possibly an aura. Whatever it is, it is unmistakable, remarkable and timeless. In addition to their vibrant menu, they also happen to have happy hour all-week long from 3pm to 8pm and burger Thursdays where you buy one and get one absolutely free. Reservation are also possible. The service is exemplary with homely setup and tasty food. Its main appeal though has to be the natural surrounding - a stone throw away from the city plus the living trees add lots of colour to the place. The prices are also keen. It is definitely worth a visit. Because good food, happy people, bundles of wild energy.
To begin with, we are served a beautifully presented plate of chicken caesar salad made of chicken fillet, bacon and ice burg lettuce.
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Creatives. Each of their stories is a testament to the power of creativity and risk-taking to change the game for the better –no matter their field. We know that part of the secret lies in seizing the time other people waste. Even if it means resetting your body clock to rise with the birds or eating the same thing daily to allow yourself the headspace for a productive hour of practicing your craft. We therefore present the best here, our list of legendary and contemporary creatives who have walked the road less travelled in Kenya; Picture Resources: Web
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By Jackline
ANDCREATIVESANDCREATIVESOFMukamiTHEIRSUCCESSSTORIESOFTHEIRSUCCESSSTORIES
of hard-to-obtain ingredients; making it the first local TV show to be exported to the international market. He is also the producer and host of Tales from the Bush, an award-winning culinary travel series where he travels the region and beyond, through hamlets and the African thicket, cooking with locals and using their ingredients. Kiran’s cooking influences include Africa, Europe and India and has been described as AfroMediterranean fusion with an Indian influence. He is also the Executive Head Chef and Owner of Seven Restaurants Ltd. that comprises of Seafood and Grill and Seven Lounge & Grill - which is defined by its sole reliance on local produce.
Behind the surge in food-related entertainment are a smattering of celebrity chefs that bring personality, culinary know-how and a dash of intrigue to the dinner table. Meet Kiran Jethwa, a Kenyan-born celebrity chef, restauranteur and entrepreneur whose culinary art has a cross-continental, crosscultural and multigenerational history attached to it. While some of us would not mind getting a break from the kitchen, Kiran, having worked in the kitchen since the age of 18, would do anything to get into one – from facing sub-zero temperatures while drilling for lotus root and giant carp in the frozen lakes of China to travelling to the sun-scorched Danakil Depression in Northern Ethiopia. Thanks to his gastronomical adventures and as daunting as it is, Kiran dares to make up Fearless Chef, a riveting punch show on Nat Geo that follows up on his journey to danger zones across the globe in search
A comedian – someone who can wake us up to the weird, wonderful possibilities of the world around us, impel us to think differently about our lives –and most of all, make us howl like blithering idiots. Arguably one of the pioneer stand-up comedians
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that play fast and loose with stereotypes. Through his second show, Churchill Raw, the comedian has managed to grow the comedy industry by scouting and nurturing new talents and brands. More than a few of comedians in Kenya have Churchill to thank for their introduction and nurturing to art including household names such as Eric Omondi, Professor Hammo, MCA Tricky, Teacher Wanjiku among others. Churchill is rated number 7 among Kenya’s 100 most influential people and CNN once classified him as one of Africa’s funniest comedians.
THE COMEDIAN Daniel Ndambuki
THE CELEBRITY CHEF Kiran Jethwa
we have in Kenya, Daniel Ndambuki, aka Churchill, has grown into a household in Kenya since he joined the arena in 1996. Churchill hosts the comedy TV Show, Churchill show, which has grown to become East Africa’s most popular and hilarious TV Show in addition to gaining momentous international interest from comedy enthusiasts in the US, the UK, India, Germany, and rest of the world. He ribs nearly every person with his broad characterizations
THE PHOTOGRAPHER
have continued screening in numerous film festivals around the world with her latest project, the highlycontroversial Homosexual film, Rafiki, screening at the Cannes Film festival last year. Wanuri is also the co-founder of Afrobubblegum – a media company dedicating to support, create and commission fun, fierce and frivolous African art. Wanuri is also a TED fellow and a World Economic Forum cultural leader.
Over the last decade, photography has played a powerful role in expanding Western perceptions of Africa and its diaspora. In tandem, the female gaze has continued to challenge and redefine narratives relating to identity and representation in photography. Award-winning photographer, Thandiwe is one such photographer best known for capturing melanin in all its glory. Beautiful imagery has always had her attention and she enjoys exploring colour, motion and contrast with contemporary African photography. Her photographic style is primarily characterized by dramatic lighting. Much of her creativity is drawn from a personal challenge to turn everyday items into unique photography props. Drawing from her fascination with facial structure, she incorporates the use of bold colours, lighting and contrast to produce distinct images. Her work is a breath of fresh air in the international beauty photography sphere dominated by photos that challenge the domination of Eurocentric beauty ideals, by unapologetically showcasing the blackness. Her work can be seen in publications and exhibitions worldwide including Harper Bazaar Arabia), Picture Africa exhibition (South Africa) among others. Some of her past clients include Mocha (Dubai), Oriflame Sweden and the Safari collection. Thandiwe would love to be known as the woman who photographs dark skinned people best.
Thandiwe Muriu
THE FILM PRODUCER Wanuri Kahiu
Give Wanuri a mediocre script, and she will mould the underwritten dud into a visual goldmine. Born in Nairobi, Wanuri Kahiu is a woman of many hats – a film director, producer, script writer and author who delved into the world of filmmaking at the age of 16. The multi-award-winning Kenyan filmmaker Wanuri Kahiu is part of the new generation of African storytellers with her films and stories receiving international acclaim and several awards. Wanuri’s first feature film FROM A WHISPER, based on the real events surrounding the 1998 twin bombings of US Embassies in Kenya and Tanzania won Best Narrative Feature in 2010 at the Pan African Film Festival in Los Angeles, as well as five awards at the African Movie Academy Award, including Best Director and Best Screenplay. Since then her films
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Sunny Bindra
THE MUSIC PRODUCERVIDEO
heart lay – music video production. It was natural for him as he always had a taste for music. His entry into the video production has been a gradual, starting with producing You Tube slide shows for artistes at no cost. Earning the trust of most of these artistes in the local entertainment scene was not an uphill task for Enos, as he was once a musician and a member of the Azizi music band. Besides directing some of the biggest music videos in Kenya, Enos Olik through his Enos Olik Productions [EOP], has previously produced for ‘The Search’ talent show and worked as a cinematographer for the Oscar hopeful Kenyan film ‘Supa Modo.’
Enos Olik
at organisational improvement. In addition, he runs ‘Fast Forward’, his own leadership development programme with a strong following amongst Kenya’s elite business leaders. He describes himself as a drumbeater for change, and his no-holds-barred style has won many plaudits in Africa and beyond. He has also written ‘Crown Your Customer’ [2007] and ‘The Peculiar Kenyan’ [2010]. The Bigger Deal is his third book with many more in the pipeline.
THE
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Chances are strong that you have read or at least seen his weekly column on the Sunday Nation [A Sunny Day] which he has been running since 2003 or the Business Daily [Thought Leadership] articles, but if it has been a while since you perused a copy of “Sunny day”, it is time to reacquaint yourself with this master of language and writing. Sunny Bindra is Kenya’s renowned management consultant, writer, educator and public speaker whose bold and contrarian writing has created much discussion and debate across the country and beyond. Sunnywords, led by Sunny, creates unique business content: insights, ideas and provocations. This content is channelled to the audience as books, articles, tweets and email shots; talks, seminars, and learning programmes; business advisory services; video products; and interactive forums. His primary work has been as a management consultant and board advisor. He also delivers talks and seminars on a wide range of topics in leadership, strategy and management. His trademark pull-no-punches style challenges teams to go for the ‘bigger deal’ every time. Sunny works with chief executives and board directors in a select group of Kenya’s top companies, helping them to develop strategic thinking and implement programmes aimed
WRITER
When say, Sauti Sol performs a vocal swell, rising an octave that sounds like it’s going to shatter their voice box, it’s easy to forget that someone was behind the scenes listening to and analysing every note. That is the fantastical elegance that comes with having Enos Olik as your music video producer and director. It is without doubt that Enos Olik has produced more hit songs single handidly. He has produced and directed music videos for Sauti Sol, Octopizzo, Jaguar, Vanessa Mdee, and Nameless among a sea of many other artists. His outstanding work has won him a couple of awards. Few video directors have had a more varied and unpredictable career than Enos Olik. He started out as a musician, then photographer until he discovered where his
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Anyiko Owoko
THE PUBLICIST
A celebrity publicist, a Public Relations maven, journalist, a blogger and an all-round music and entertainment aficionado -Anyiko Owoko is the perfect definition of more than a triple threat. Anyiko Owoko, through her PR Company Anyiko PR has been climbing the PR ladder and is now one of the most sought-after publicists in East Africa. She has risen to media success thanks to her work with award winning East African music group Sauti Sol. She has also worked with many other talented artists on the continent and beyond who have seen her prowess as an influential communicator and brand strategist.
THE SUPERMODEL
Ajuma Nasenyana
Africa is home to beautiful women from many cultural backgrounds. A large number of women have successfully managed to show that to the world, including melanin queen, Ajuma Nasenyana. She is a fashion runway regular, a street style queen and a muse who has slayed every aspect of modelling. Born in Lodwar, Ajuma has won the international fashion industry over with her confidence and looks; short hair, high cheekbones and an even dark skin. She made her big debut modelling by modelling in the Miss Tourism Kenya Competition in 2003, where she was crowned Miss Nairobi. Since then, she has become a familiar face on the fashion capitals of the world from Milan, to Paris, New York and London. Ajuma has served every look she strutted in from Victoria secret, Lacoste, Carpe Mienes, magazine editorials among others. Ajuma has tremendously grown to build her own modelling agency – Ajuma Limited, which nurtures young aspiring models in the industry.
Africanism.performing
DJ Poizon Ivy
THE DISC JOCKEY
THE ART COLLECTOR
and hosting throughout the Midwest region. The talented empress behind the turntables balances deejaying on-air, on main concert stages, at select nightclubs and lifestyle venues, for celebrity and non-profit events, and for corporate clients, with now hosting, interviewing and modelling. As an international DJ, Poizon Ivy has a love for diverse music, incorporating all genres into her sets and radio mixes. When she’s not honing her skills, DJ Poizon Ivy is advocating for various causes and working with non-profit organizations that enable young women pursuing careers in music, young mothers,
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In an industry where males still dominate, emerges an unapologetically zealous, multi-culturally influenced woman of her craft, DJ Poizon Ivy. Born Ivy Awino in Kenya and raised in Dallas, Texas, Ivy mastered both the piano and cello before discovering her love for yet another instrument; turntables. She has eventually made a career out of being a DJ who loves basketball. She is now one of the most in-demand Midwest DJ talents,
Alan Donovan
Alan Donovan’s art will reinforce the notion of devotion in you. Alan came to Africa 50 years ago and was together with Kenya’s first vice-president Joseph Murumbi, the co-founder of the African Heritage Gallery and the creator of the African Heritage House – the first Pan African gallery on the African continent. African Heritage House is a showpiece of African culture and heritage that contains an invaluable collection of African art. Overlooking the Nairobi National Park, it is a combination of the mud architectures from across Africa and is available for tours, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinners on the rooftop or by the refreshing pool), conferences/functions, as well as overnight stays in its luxurious rooms, filled with African art and furnishings with modern appointments. The African Heritage House covers the gallery side of Murumbi’s dream, as it contains art and artifacts that Donovan collected while travelling around the region for AH Gallery. But
if anyone could understand the need to establish a Pan-African art institution, it would be the former US president, also the first African-American to ascend to that high office. He has since then organized and curated exhibitions all around the world showcasing Africa’s rich cultural legacy for over four decades. His art is his passion – and like every fantastically creative person, Alan Donovan has played a unique role in the cultural affairs of Kenya, and fostering the ideals of Pan
and organizations that aide health issues affecting young women. Her personal vision is branding herself as a curator of music, fashion, entertainment and all things female empowerment. DJ Poizon Ivy continues to put on the Kenyan music to the limelight even without getting asked by anyone to do it. With all the recent talk that has been in the country about media personalities, radio presenters and DJs playing and supporting Kenyan music, DJ Poizon Ivy has clearly been walking that talk with action rather than words and the best part of it all is that she’s supporting the Kenyan music miles away from the country while most DJs in Kenya can’t and/or won’t play local content.
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Julie Gichuru is a Media Personality with a career that spans over the past 15 years and has seen her work across the fields of broadcast, print and digital media. She has also pioneered an impressive number of television shows, from the first Kenyan investigative TV series, The Inside Story on Kenya Television Network to various current affairs shows at NTV [Kenya] including political and current affairs programs Showdown, On the Spot, You The Jury and The People’s Voice, and the celebrated news program Sunday Live and peace and reconciliation program Fist to Five at Citizen TV. Also included in this list is the celebrated postelection peace specials Voices of Reason. Through ARIMUS Media Limited Julie now oversees the production of quality African content such as Africa Leadership Dialogues, the High School debate platform Great Debaters Contest and entertainment series Maisha. Julie is also the founder, together with her husband, of The Footprints Africa Foundation that helps empower and grow healthy, dignified and informed societies in the region. FAF supports the Great Debaters Contest and the Africa Leadership Dialogues, both platforms for discussion and exchange of ideas on African challenges and opportunities. She is a recipient of Martin Luther King Salute to Greatness Award.
THE MEDIA PERSONALITY
If you had a checklist of what a star rapper would sound like, King Kaka would hit all the marks. He is famously known for creating melodic, hard-edged street anthems that quickly catch on. He has been dubbed the new sensation, poet and one of the greatest storytellers of all times. When he approaches topics of relationships, romance, or wealth, you can feel his emotions – a pure lyrical. Apart from his internationally recognized music career, Kevin Ombina is also a businessman and a philanthropist. In 2012, King Kaka launched his own clothing line dubbed Niko Kwa Jam Nakam. In 2015, he launched his purified water company known as Kaka Empire's Majik Water using his music brand name as the official name of the product. He has also been featured on various local TV shows such as Machachari, Higher Learning, and Mali, among others. For his philanthropic part, King Kaka is currently running a number of initiatives and organizations that deal with gender violence, child molestation, empowering the African child and mostly make people realize their dreams thus the dreams campaign and the tubonge initiative.
Julie Gichuru
THE RAPPER King Kaka
THE ACTRESS
including COUTURE Africa Magazine. He has also participated in several awards and hair contest over the years and have won Hair cut stylist of the year 2014 and 2016, Bridal stylist of the year 2015 as well as Avant Garde finalist in the Kenya afro hair awards. Dgohnie is also the CEO of Amo La Moda Kenya, a fashion organization that empowers youths and creates employment in Kenya and diaspora. His hair is always slayed too.
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Dgohnie Hair Arts
THE HAIR STYLIST
Much has been made about the dearth of strong female roles in contemporary cinema, and the problematic depictions of women in many recent movies, but the past two decades have provided plenty of counterexamples. While the onus is on writers and directors to craft strong female characters, the actresses themselves bring these figures to life, and they’re often the main reason we keep being drawn back to these works. With an unauthoritative voice and a calm demeanor, Samantha Mugastia has grown into a phenomenal actress from a drummer with a local band, the Yellow Machine. Her big break came when she got the role of Kena, one of the two main characters in Rafiki Movie which screened at the Cannes Film Festival in Paris.
Dgohnie of Dgohnie Empire is one of those celebrity hair stylist spearheading #EmpireGoals. Creativity, idioms and humanity drove him into this industry, he says. His clients range from corporates, celebrities, models, artists as well as media and business personalities. This has garnered him an opportunity to work with celebrities such as Victoria Kimani, Olive Gachara, Janet Mgugua, Rue Baby, Terry Anne Chebet, Olive Burrows among others. Dgohnie Hair Arts is a brand name that has appeared in most of the media platforms – from TV, to Radio and Magazines
A great hair stylist is quite like a great bag, it's not easy to find one that ticks all the boxes! Especially when you are in a hair rut! But thanks to a crop of social media-savvy celebrity hairstylists ‘gramming their covetable works worn by celebrities— along with genius behind-the-scenes pro tips - it is easy to identify who the OG stylists are in the industry.
Samantha Mugastia
electric frenzy among his audience at any sitting. His poetry is influenced by American poets Saul Williams and Alysia Harris and the Canadian Poet Shane Konicyzan. Mufasa’s works focuses on social political evils and are a clarion call for enlightenment of people in order to fight for freedom. He has used various platforms in his country like ‘7 Poems’, ‘Back to my Roots’, ‘Unchained Voices’ and ‘No Judgment’ events to air out the dirt in society. Mufasa has also graced events hosted by the Supreme Court of Kenya, UN Women, Embassy of Ireland and Denmark, and Ubumuntu Arts Festival in Rwanda besides popular television shows in Kenya. He is also one of the Judges of the popular Slam Africa
Festival in Kenya and the 40th Slam King. Besides his popularity in live performance Mufasa has an album, Inside Out- a six poem masterpiece that resonates with the four walls of the house and speaks to the soul. He is vibrant lion on stage with creative ooze that slowly diminishes into a calm collected invisible person in the crowd.
For the past decade, there has been a lot of activity in the Kenyan spoken word scene - milestones have been achieved by a number of young artists who have overzealously fought to make poetry grow in the country. The field has solely remained a tuff for young minds with little interest from the older groups and an entertainment industry that seems to steer clear of the genre which appeals to its loyal fan base in the East African country. Born Ken Kibet, Mufasa is known for his highly emotive voice and animated delivery that sparks
Xtian Dela
THE POET
THE SOCIAL INFLUENCERMEDIA
Xtian Dela is one of the new breed of celebrities who has built up a celebrity status due to his internet activities. Xtian is a Kenyan YouTuber, blogger, social media personality and a radio presenter. What makes Dela worth a mention are his many accolades thanks to his influence in social media. In 2014, he won the Best Personal Blog in the African Bloggers Awards and the Most Influential Twitter Personality in the Kenyan Social Media Awards. In the same year, he was nominated at the Africa Social Media Award for the Social Media Hero in Africa, Twitter Handle of the Year in Africa and Influencer of the Year in Africa Awards. His social media presence
was still felt in 2014 when he started an initiative on Twitter called #BringBackOurKDFSolders to force the government of Kenya to bring back the Kenya Defence Force (KDF) from Somalia - a story that was picked up by BBC. Since then, he has continued bagging awards after awards. In 2018, he was named among the Top 100 Most Influential Young Africans on the Continent by Africa Youth Awards - the biggest African youth awards scheme which recognises the achievements of young Africans and young change makers on the continent and beyond.
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Mufasa
some of the most intricate and avant-garde makeup looks ever. She is the CEO of Shades by Nikki as well as the Lead Trainer at Lintons College of Beauty with a career spanning to almost a decade. It has not been an easy journey to get where she is, she says. She once cooked and sold mandazis, chapatis and popcorns with the hubbie to make ends meet. She has also worked in a salon at CBD where she earned 40 shillings a day. However, her attention to detail
Andy Nicole
THE MAKE-UP ARTISTE
Joanne Ball-Burgess
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and precision got her attention in the beginning and now she works with the biggest names in the industry – from Akothee, Actress Brenda Wairimu, Carol Odero, Fena Gitu among others. Her clients range from corporate companies to Bridal Makeup, Runway fashion shows and Magazine photoshoots. Nikki is considered an artist in the industry because she does not put a layer on women’s faces but rather inspires them to be their true selves and empowers them with the art of makeup. For the oh-so chic beauty inspo and if you have a soft spot for flawless, dewy skin, Nikki is the person to follow.
Joanne aka Jo-1 is a triple threat – she is a songwriter, a poet and a published, best-selling author. Make that a quadruple threat since she is also an experienced dance choreographer. She uses dance as a pathway to freedom and she has continued to dance, choreograph and perform throughout her life in afro-fusion, hip-hop, dancehall and modern dance. Best known in Kenya as a dance judge for 4 seasons on Sakata Mashariki, Jo-1 demanded perfection and passion from crews and became a household name. She has taught dance across the US, Cyprus, Egypt and now in Kenya and is known for her hit song Chizika. At present Jo-1 teaches choreography classes as well as dance fitness classes where she combines deep yoga stretching with fun, hip-hop and dancehall choreography at Acacia Studio. She is the author of author of ‘The Lizard and the Rock’ and ‘take this Journey Anthology’.
From her famous fresh-faced beauty makeup, to her killer contour, Andy Nicole better known as Nikki is the brains behind them all. What began as a passion, turned into curiosity and manifested into a career for Nikki and now here she is sharing her talent with the rest of the world. She has created
THE DANCER
THE ACTOR
Nick mutuma is a popular actor, a producer, TV/ Radio host and corporate Emcee. He has been cast in various shows including Mnet’s first Pan-African drama series Changes, directed by Tosh Gitonga, Disconnect, among others. His break-out role came in 2008 when he was cast for the drama series MTV Shuga (2008); a show that revolved around the fast lives of Nairobi youth and their risky sexual behaviour. The hit show launched the careers of a new crop of Kenyan actors, including Oscar winner Lupita Nyong'o. Mutuma is the only cast member to have reprised his role for all four seasons (Kenya/Nigeria) of the show. Nick is the only MTV Shuga cast to be present in all the five seasons.
THE SONGSTRESS
Victoria Kimani
A “female rapper” is a rapper. Victoria Kimani is a Kenyan singer, songwriter, actress and entertainer known for the fiercest lyrics. Currently signed to Chocolate City, Victoria is described as the record label's first lady. As a singer, she is popularly known for her numerous hits and sense of style. Her penetration into the African music industry has earned her a number of nominations, with her singles receiving numerous airplay across Africa. Victoria Kimani has also been outspoken on issues like male chauvinism and women empowerment in conjunction with the ONE campaign. Having collaborated with other African female singers, in the making of an inspirational song "Strong Girl". Kimani has also stated that women struggle to make ends meet due to the careers available to them. She defends models, singers, dancers, entertainers, presenters, business women, PR, managers, PAs, singers, stylists, DJs and designers.
COUTURE CONVERSATIONS 92 | COUTURE AFRICA
Nick Mutuma
THE BLOGGER
One of Kenya’s top bloggers and fashion consultants, Silvia Njoki understands style. Silvia Njoki is a leading Kenyan online content creator, journalist and inspirational manager of her eponymous blog which she launched in 2013. Her love for fashion and beauty, as well as her in-depth and up-to-date information on what rocks in the industry, forms the solid foundation of her blogging and other professional activities, which is also undeniably manifested in her own personal style. She launched the blog as a creative outlet for her DIY activities in pursuit of dressing her infant daughter born that year, but soon morphed into a distinctly fashion oriented vehicle for sharing her unique personal style on the social media scene. The blog is now increasingly also focusing on beauty, lifestyle and particularly travel. The blog has earned Silvia several awards including
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THE VLOGGER
Kangai Mwiti
Getting tired of Netflix? Find yourself googling “best Netflix shows” but checking off every series on the list? It happens to the best of us, and when it does, you can always turn to YouTube. Home to thousands of vloggers including Kangai Mwiti whose keys to success have been showing off successful makeup applications, establishing makeup trends, sharing
Best Kenyan Fashion/Beauty/Hair/Style Blog 2015 and Kenyan Blog of the Year 2015 at the BAKE awards, as well as international recognition from inter alia Nickelodeon as a nominee for Favourite African Blogger. In 2016 Silvia was awarded the title Best Blogger at the Abryanz Fashion and Style Awards in Uganda and again in 2017 Abryanz awarded her the title Fashion Writer of the year –Africa. Silvia’s love Away from the spotlight, Silvia loves music, photography, cooking and fitness and is a doting mother to a 5-year-old daughter.
a self-taught make-up artist who spent (and still spends) countless hours on the site everyday watching and learning from other make-up artists. Kangai’s impact is felt across 100-plus countries around the world. Her channel is currently among the top 10 channels in the country with over 98,000 subscribers and more than 1.3 million view.
Silvia Njoki
reviews, and creating how-to’s. Kangai Mwiti is an Award-winning makeup artist and digital strategist whose professional background spans the beauty, retail, IT, and digital industries. Kangai is the face behind Bellesa Africa- Kenya’s first YouTube channel dedicated solely to makeup and beauty tips, tricks and tutorials for women of colour. She also shares a few tips on how to avoid counterfeits, looking at the price with respect to the brand. It was natural for her to have a YouTube channel after all she is
Allow Your Passion to Become Your Purpose and It Will One Day Become Your Profession.
Think of Entrepreneurship – especially in non-conventional fields – as an extreme sport. Have you been or heard of the experience of someone who has gone bungee jumping or skydiving? You have to be crazy to do it. You will have to continue encouraging yourself to actually take the leap. The higher you go the more horrifying it becomes. Just before you jump you are almost absolutely sure your life is over. Then you jump – eyes closed, fists clenched, screaming your lungs out until you can scream no more. Then you start looking around and you begin to notice the beauty around you. And suddenly you realize you are free – like a bird. Like a bungee cord, sometimes the hard knock-ness of life will snap you back into reality. Or like a skydive you will soar and land slowly on your dreams. [You could also just die, but hey, the odds of that are negligible enough to have people taking the leap, day in day out].
LAST WORDS | OLIVE GACHARA NairobiNorfolk,TheFairmontatLocationonShot|Ntong’onduRoseMake-up:|ArtsHairDgohnieofDgohnieHair:|OdhiamboRuthStyling:|LouieKhalifaPhotography:
So, Slave in Style
Every time I ask someone why they want to start a business; the answer always is “I want to have more time / to be in control of my time”. Hilarious! I actually envy people with a standard 40-hour week. I mean, you get to work at 8am and are out at 5pm, and perhaps once in a while you may be required to do some overtime or work a weekend. Flexibility of time is indeed a perk in entrepreneurship, but when you do choose to work for yourself – especially in the creative space – you should be ready to slave your life away for a long, long time. This is why you can only do it if it is your true passion. If you cannot see yourself spending your life doing anything else. If so, this will be the beginning of the best rest of your life.
Business owners always think they are one contract, one deal, one break away from financial freedom and the freedom and time to do whatever they choose. This keeps us all in the very rat race we started our businesses to escape. So, I have learnt to embrace the struggle, not attempt to run away from it…or look forward to the day when it will all be over. It is only when you get out of this rat race concept. When you embrace the early mornings and late nights. When you start looking for bigger challenges, instead of running away from them. It is only when you embrace the “hustle” that you really pave the way for the big leagues.
O.
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The last article on here really inspires me and is pretty close to my heart. Call it a homage to all who have dared walk down the path less trodden – and have created a life and livelihood around it. So, as we get into the meat of 2019 [January is just the starter pack] I hope that more and more people will be willing to take the plunge into the abyss of entrepreneurship and fully follow their dreams. I have had lots of conversations on “taking risks” and “following your passion” and I think there are a couple of insights I should share, to hopefully prepare others:
It’s an Extreme Sport
It Doesn’t Get Easier, You Get Better
www.iwo.co.ke INDIVIDUAL CONSULTATIONS | TRAINING & WORKSHOPS | MARKETPLACE BRANDING
PARKED, IT’S AN SUV. OUT THERE, IT’S A JAGUAR. THE NEW JAGUAR E-PACE Even when stationary the New E-PACE’s bold, sporting design turns heads. Shift into Drive, however, and its dynamic performance stops people in their tracks. With a range of powerful engines – starting at 150PS and including a 240PS AWD diesel and 300PS AWD petrol – the New E-PACE is always ready to pounce. Yet, this compact SUV has the brains to match its brawn. The highly advanced 9-speed automatic transmission* always selects the optimum gear, maximising fuel e ciency while delivering e ortless acceleration. And with optional Adaptive Dynamics**, suspension is adjusted 100 times a second to achieve the perfect balance between ride comfort and agile handling. Beautiful in Park. Exhilarating in Drive. There’s no mistaking the E-PACE for anything but a Jaguar. Inchcape Kenya Limited Jaguar Land Rover Centre, Oracle Tower Westlands Nairobi 254 (0) 730 191 Jaguar-kenya.com000
