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FASHION . BEAUTY . CULTURE ISSUE 60

6

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ANNIVERSARY EDITION

LISA CHRISTOFFERSEN

LIVING FOR ART, FASHION AND ADVENTURE

#Couture60at6

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CONVERSATIONS WITH LEADING FEMALE AMBASSADORS TO KENYA TANZANIA | COLUMBIA | ROMANIA | GHANA | COSTA RICA | PORTUGAL | CHILE

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CONTENTS

COUTURE CONTENTS

COUTURE IN-HOUSE 10 THE TEAM

COUTURE NEWS 12 16 20 22 24

DIGITAL COUTURE FASHION BEAUTY COUTURE CULTURE

COUTURE FASHION 33 AFROSTREET BY YVONNE Afrostreet by Yvonne continues to amaze us with every collection she puts together. The bright prints that accent the lovely yellow fabric brings this collection to life in effortless style.

COUTURE CELEBRITY 50 LISA CHRISTOFFERESEN Living for Art, Fashion and Adventure.

CONTENTS

COUTURE CONTENTS

COUTURE BEAUTY 60 YOUR PERFECT SHADE 64 HAIR EXTENSIONS FOR YOU 66 THE GREEN TEA MOVEMENT

COUTURE TRAVEL 70 6 IN 56 How 6 busy women can enjoy 56 hours in the bush.

COUTURE CONVERSATIONS 78 THE FEMALE AMBASSADORIAL CORE Conversations with leading Ambassadors to Kenya.

COUTURE CONTRIBUTORS

COUTURE AFRICA LIMITED FOUNDER & C.E.O Olive Gachara olive@coutureafricamag.com EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Gloria Wanjohi gloria@coutureafricamag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Issa Abdul issa@coutureafricamag.com PHOTOGRAPHERS Khalifa Louie Michael Murunga & Lex Nduva from Visual Dialogue KE Riz Mehar of Mehar Images CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Christoffersen Alan Donovan for African Heritage HAIR & MAKE-UP Lancôme Kenya Team Andy Nicole from Lintons College of Beauty Dennis and Dgohnie of Dgohnie Hair Arts EVENTS & BRAND MANAGER Nadia Macharia nadia@coutureafricamag.com MEDIA & BRAND MANAGER Gemiene Mueni couture@coutureafricamag.com ADVERTISING sales@coutureafricamag.com SUBSCRIPTION subscribe@coutureafricamag.com ACCOUNTING Alphacap Ltd LEGAL MM Gitonga Advocates LLP COUTURE Africa CONTACTS KENYA OFFICE: COUTURE House, 37 Eldama Ravine Road, Westlands, Nairobi +254 20 521 9 517 info@coutureafricamag.com © COUTURE Africa (K) Ltd COUTURE Africa Magazine is published by COUTURE Africa Limited of P. O. Box 359 Nairobi 00621 Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in parts without written permission from the publishers is strictly prohibited. While every care is taken in preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information held herein, or any consequence arising from it.

AFRICA SOURCING AND FASHION WEEK

AFRICA‘S BIGGEST FASHION & SOURCING EVENT Over 500 exhibitors from 35 countries Over 6.000 trade buyers from over 40 countries High Level Conference on Fashion, Manufacturing, Sourcing and Textile Technology B2B and B2G Meetings incl.

Millennium Hall / Addis Ababa / Ethiopia

9 –12 November 2019 www.asfw-online.com

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COUTURE NEWS

THE CANON DISCOVERY WEEK

Canon Central and North Africa [CCNA] a leader in imaging solutions, launched the Canon Discovery Week in Nairobi recently. On this occasion a photo safari was organized in Nairobi by the very famous photographers Jonathan and Angela Scott. The Scotts shared their passion for Africa and revealed some of their secrets to capture in a photo the beauty of African landscapes and the animals that live here. The Canon Discovery Week was dedicated to photographers, whether professional, amateur or casual.

By putting human relations at the heart of its DNA, Canon embraced the opportunity to interact with Kenyan customers enjoying their imaging products. Consequently, the week featured various activities for people to test the latest cameras, interact with Canon experts, and improve their creative and professional skills in photography as well as bring their stories to life with printing solutions.

S.A. INTRODUCES KISWAHILI IN SCHOOLS

South African schools will start teaching Swahili as an optional language after an MoU was signed between Kenya and South Africa by Kenyan Cabinet Secretary of Education Prof George Magoha and South African Minister for Basic Education Angelina Matsie Motshekga.

“Kiswahili is one of the most spoken languages in Africa after Arabic and English; and could expand to countries that have never spoken it before and as a result draw Africans closer together,” said Motshekga. This could be all in the bid to continentalise Swahili by the Economic Freedom Fighters party under the leadership of Julius Malema. “We must develop a common language that can be used throughout the continent. Like Swahili, if it can be developed as the language of the continent,” Malema said. Kiswahili is spoken in Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, and parts of Uganda, DRC Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Malawi, Mozambique and Southern African nations of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

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COUTURE NEWS

REMBO TV LAUNCHES

StartTimes Media recently launched a new TV Station targeted predominantly to women dubbed RemboTV. The Chinese pay TV company is said to have injected US$ 1.9 million toward local content creation for the station and it has already started attracting local vloggers such as Maureen Waititu who will have a TV Show called Minji Minji. StarTimes Chief Executive, Andy Wang said that they have partnered with over 25 local content developers as they position themselves as an organization that encourages and empowers the development of local content in Kenya. “The company has responded to the growing appeal for authentic Kenyan content that subscribers can easily relate with as it rolls out exciting fresh shows that are expected to sustain the channel’s subscriber appeal moving forward,” Wang said.

DUSIT D2 REOPENS

Following 6 months of renovations and a heart-warming social media campaign, Dusit D2 re-opens its doors under the leadership of its General Manager Michael Metaxas. In a symbolic move, the Dusit D2 Nairobi flag toured all the Dusit properties around the world where it was received with love and support by each of property. The flag then landed at JKIA, Nairobi where it was received by a whirlwind of supporters including the Ministry of Tourism and ferried under pomp and flair into their Nairobi Property where Olympic Champion David Rudisha jogged it in on the last mile. Drawing lessons from the January 15 terror attack, the 14 riverside office complex and indeed the hotel have increased its security precautions.

THE LIRA BARBIE DOLL

South African songbird and businesswoman, Lerato Molapo better known as Lira is the first African to get her very own ‘Broide’ as part of Barbie’s 60th anniversary Shero campaign that is aimed at inspiring young girls. “I’m deeply honoured to be Barbie’s first African role model and am excited to align with a brand that is on a mission to show girls more diverse role models. I have always been someone who highlights the celebration of my skin tone and natural hair, and it is amazing to see this reflected in my doll, which I hope will inspire girls across the African continent. This is an enormous gesture and affirmation that the world is celebrating Africa for who we are.” Lira said as she was officially recognised as a Barbie Shero.

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COUTURE NEWS

INSTAGRAM DISABLES LIKES

Instagram would like you to focus on creating and sharing great authentic content, not on the number of likes you get. This new take to Instagram has been launched and is being piloted in some markets such as Canada and Australia. The social media world is looking keenly at how this move will affect the influencer market that has grown as a result of a proven track record of followers and likes per post on client content. This move however, if fully implemented, may see advertisers move from spending their digital advertising budgets with influencers to putting up promoted posts on the platform instead, hence increasing revenue for Instagram.

JANET MBUGUA BACK TO TV

Former news anchor and internet sensation Janet Mbugua has made a comeback to mainstream TV via her own TV Show on NTV dubbed Here and Now. The show, that focuses on real stories and real people – a trend Janet has been gravitating towards on her vlog – airs every Thursday in a one-hour segment. Her appearance on NTV comes three years after she left Citizen TV and focused on her online Vlog that was largely supported by Lifebuoy for whom she is a brand ambassador. Here and Now launched with a sensational conversation between Janet and her older brother Kevin on his struggles with mental health, indicating the deep and constructive direction the new show will be taking.

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K24 TV BAGS NEWS STARS

Kenyan TV station K24 seems to be going in a bold and exciting direction with the back-to-back launch of two exciting shows, ‘Weekend with Betty’ hosted by former KTN anchor, Betty Kyalo and ‘Punchline’ hosted by former Citizen TV anchor Anne Kiguta. With both being one-hour prime time shows, Weekend with Betty takes on in-depth interviews where Betty Kyalo goes

into various personalities elements and talks about their lives, careers and future aspirations. Punchline on the other hand is a one-on-one gloves-off political interview that discusses the politics of the day and seeks to unearth various hot topics. No doubt these moves have made a giant audience move towards K24 at prime time.

COUTURE NEWS

FOSCHINI’S ‘ALL WOMAN’ CONCEPT STORE

To celebrate Women's Month, Foschini will open its latest concept store which will be a launchpad for ground-breaking collaborations with local brands that are sophisticated, edgy and beloved among women in South Africa. The brand's clothing collection, along with the collaborations,

will see up to 50% of the merchandise in its stores nationwide, being locally made.

Kicking off the collaborations will be fashion brands, Kisua Africa, Burgundy Fly, and hair and beauty care brand, Candi & Co. Derek Patrick who is the chief executive at TDC & Co said: “The intention of the space is to allow women to feel comfortable and

confident in themselves. So, the focus is as much functional and flexible, as it is beautiful.

It is not anchored in a particular time, which speaks to the longevity of the space and also to its openness for women of various ages to step in and really explore their person-hood through style.”

EAST AFRICA’S GOT TALENT

Sponsored by Safaricom and Coca Cola Africa, East Africa's Got Talent has already attracted thousands of fans who turned up for the auditions. It is aired on Citizen TV (Kenya), Clouds Media (Tanzania), Rwanda Broadcasting Agency and NBS TV (Uganda). The four celebrity judges on the show include: Citizen TV’s Jeff Koinange, CapitaFM Uganda’s Gaetano Kwagwa, Tanzanian songstress Vanessa Mdee and Rwanda’s DJ Contact Makeda. This strong line-up is topped off by Ugandan Queen of Comedy Anne Kansiime who is the show’s host.

COUTURE NEWS | FASHION

GABRIELLE UNION and MICHELLE WILLIAMS ROCK SAI SANKOH Award–winning actress and entrepreneur Gabrielle Union looked like a radiant goddess in the Aphrodite Kaftan from the Resort 2019 collection on holiday in July. Hot on her heels was award-winning singer, actress and entrepreneur Michelle Williams who suited up in style to the Essence Festival in an entire bright green snakeskin suit from their Resort 2019 collection too. Sai Sankoh is a game-changing fashion brand blended with vintage style and modern fashion. Created by renowned entrepreneur and luxury fashion consultant Sai Sankoh, a Sierra Leone native and former nurse, the all-new clothing line was launched in November 12.

COUTURE AFRICA FASHION WEEK, ADDIS ABABA

Ethiopia is well known for its cotton fields and textile manufacturing plants. As apparel manufacturing increases within the country, it is quietly, yet steadily growing into a global textile and apparel manufacturing hub.

COUTURE Africa recognises this and seeks to celebrate Ethiopia by holding COUTURE AFRICA FASHION WEEK in Addis Ababa this November. Our presence, as a Kenyan company celebrated throughout East Africa and beyond will indeed help to cement Ethiopia's place in fashion within Eastern Africa, the rest of the continent and ultimately globally. After signing an MoU with Trade and Fairs East Africa in early 2019, the AFRICA SOURCING AND FASHION WEEK and the ALL AFRICAN LEATHER FAIR officially became the home of COUTURE AFRICA FASHION WEEK. A Five-Day Fashion Event run by Couture Africa Limited and Ajuma Limited running from the 9th to the 13th of November the COUTURE AFRICA FASHION WEEK shall comprise of pre-event designer meetups & a cocktail launch, a two day fashion show and two day post-event fashion shoots.

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UGANDA INTERNATIONAL FASHION WEEK

Uganda International Fashion Week [UIFW], one of the most prestigious events on Uganda’s fashion calendar, returned with a sixth edition in a three-day cultural and art explosion. Running from 2nd – 4th August at the Serena Kampala, the fashion week’s focus was on the Business of Fashion with the intention of magnifying the potential of fashion as a vehicle for economic development in Africa. UIFW was hosted

by ARAPAPA in association with South Africa’s Department of Arts and Culture.

Addressing journalists on July 22 at the

Serena, ARAPAPA’S Santa Anzo said fashion is a multi-billion industry just like agriculture, oil and gas, among others noting, “UIFW is at the forefront of causing socio-economic change in Uganda by creating activations of partnerships that promote the fashion and textile industry.” Claire Mugabi, the Marketing Manager at Uganda Tourism Board said, “Tourism is no longer about people coming to see wild animals. They want to experience the culture, the cuisine and the fashion. We are glad UIFW is taking a lead in fashion tourism.”

COUTURE NEWS | FASHION

NIGERIA’S, MOWALOLA OGUNLESI DRESSES BARBIE

Barbie has been celebrating female role models and Inspiring Girls Since 1959. But she isn't done yet. There are glass ceilings left to be shattered. And Barbie believes this generation of young women will be the ones to shatter them - that today's girls will be The Last Generation of Firsts. Mowalola got to dress Barbie in her signature free-spirited style. The style translates to Barbie’s latest look – a neon green tie-dye co-ord, which is a part of Ogunlesi’s S/S20 collection. Speaking on her designs and her Barbie to Vogue, she said, “Mine is a world where everyone is free in terms of what they wear, in terms of how they think, and my women aren’t threatened by anyone – they are taking back their power.

She is a Mowalola superhero – strong, captivating and ready to have a really good time. I want to be wherever she’s going.”

S.A’s NANDI MADIDA FOR ALDO

ALDO shoes will launch it’s first local collaboration with South Africa’s Actress Nandi Madida. The campaign dubbed Power Women with Nandi Madida will see a collection of shoes inspired by the actress endorsed and sold across South Africa and other markets with Aldo stores. Nandi Madida seems to be on a career high as she was recently announced as a judge on SABC’s reality TV show The Next Brand Ambassador. The show will see 12 finalists compete in a series of challenges designed to test whether they have the personality and skill set to excel at promoting South Africa’s number one retail bank.

MANTSHO COLLABORATES WITH H&M

H&M has unveiled its first-ever collaboration with an African label, South Africa’s Mantsho, celebrating “the elegance and vibrancy of Africa”. Launching on August 15 online and in selected stores in the UK, the Mantsho collaboration will feature flowy, easy fitting cuts, frills and gathers in a range of colour palettes from blues, browns to blacks, hues of pink and amber reds. The Mantsho label, meaning ‘black is beautiful’ in Mokubung’s native Sesotho language, was established in 2004 and has since

graced numerous runways including Greece, India, USA, Jamaica, Nigeria, Botswana and Senegal. Every year since 2004, H&M has collaborated with a fashion designer to produce a capsule collection for its stores.

Mantsho’s collaboration puts the brand in the company of designers such as Balmain, Stella McCartney, and Karl Lagerfeld who have all collaborated with the retailer. “This is my love letter to the world from Africa,” says Mantsho’s head of design, Palesa Mokubung.

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COUTURE NEWS | BEAUTY

JACKIE AINA x ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS

Anastasia Beverley Hills has collaborated with YouTube sensation Jackie Aina, to create the most glorious new eyeshadow palette. With a 3 million-subscriber count on YouTube and 1.2 million following on Instagram - Jackie is a beauty guru with undeniable influence. A pillar for women of colour online and across social media, over

the past 10 years Jackie has set the bar when it comes to making diversity a topic of conversation within the beauty industry. Her collaboration for Anastasia Beverly Heels to create this electric palette for women of colour in 14 different shades is just as dreamy as its name.

MICROBLADING GONE WRONG

The Microblading brow trend had been bubbling under for some time now before become mainstream earlier this year. And as with anything involving sharp objects that goes mainstream, this too has come with its own level of mishaps across the globe.

So much so that the regulators such as the Welsh Government and Pittsfield Health in Berkshire USA are taking action to require mandatory licensing under the Public Health Act. Since it went mainstream, a skill that

22 | COUTURE AFRICA

the initiators of microblading took years to master is now being learnt and administered to the public in just a couple of days. It is believed that every fourth person who has undergone microblading has a horror story to tell, just ask around. These mishaps however are not just as a result of lack of skill, but also allergic reactions to the ink used, or poor maintenance after the first couple of sessions.

THE BEAUTY FRIDGE

“If you’ve invested in skin care and beauty products, you know how difficult it can be to keep your products protected and effective.

Between the myriad products that serve different purposes, you may have a hard time storing your cosmetic items and may even face the risk of your products going bad before you have a chance to use them up. While some skin care products can be left in room temperature, many need to be refrigerated in order to prevent them from expiring early. With the cosmetics fridge, these problems are virtually eliminated.

With a design both efficient and cute, this small fridge is designed to take care of the products you’ve invested in and extend the life of your beauty investments.” Says fridge cosmetics dot com. So, looks like this is the all new make-up trend for 2019 with other suppliers such as makeup.com getting sold out within the first couple of months.

COUTURE NEWS | BEAUTY

CELINE DION’S L’OREAL MIRACLE

Papermag.com: Everybody feels insecure, apparently even Céline Dion. In a recent interview, the legendary musician and style icon called being picked as a beauty ambassador for L'Oreal Paris a “miracle.”

While talking with Allure, Dion reflected on being chosen to represent the beauty brand as a Global Spokesperson earlier this year.

“When I was young and having problems with my teeth, very, very skinny, not feeling pretty, and being bullied at school, I would never have thought that L'Oréal Paris would one day ask me, at 51 years old, to become an ambassador,” she said. “It's a miracle.” She continued to describe how the opportunity empowered her and made her

feel ‘in charge’. “I've never felt as beautiful, or so in charge,” she said. “When you do feel in charge, it gives you an extra voice.

Even though I still use my voice for singing, I now have a little [extra] voice for raising my children, for making decisions.”

MARY J. BLIGE LOVE ME M•A•C

LONDON BEAUTY WEEK

Move over fashion! ‘Dynamic’ London Beauty Week debuts next month. The British Beauty Council and London’s infamous Covent Garden will debut ‘London Beauty Week’ next month to showcase innovation, growth and influence in the UK beauty market. Mille Kendall, the CEO of the Beauty British Council says, “beauty is a buoyant sector and contributes significantly to the

UK economy. As a growing industry that is a force for good , we are focused on supporting brands and creating jobs via our three pillars: reputation, education and innovation. The UK beauty industry is worth US$ 28.4 billion, about 1.3% of the UK’s GDP. This weeklong event will mirror its sister event London Fashion Week.

M•A•C is excited to introduce Love Me Lipstick with the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige. “The new M•A•C Love Me Lipstick collection celebrates the love and respect you have for yourself,” a release explains.

“Who better embodies self-empowerment, joy, and love for life than music icon Mary J. Blige?” it hypothetically asks. Blige is also getting her own limited-edition lipstick, French Silk, which comes in 24 shades and is “a delicate balance of brown, peach and pink undertones” that come together to form a flattering nude. Get ready to fall in love at first swipe with a state-of-the-art lipstick that delivers an instant hit of powerful colour and all-day moisture.

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COUTURE NEWS | CULTURE

THE LION KING 2019

The Lion King is a 2019 American computeranimated musical film directed and produced

by Jon Favreau, written by Jeff Nathanson, and produced by Walt Disney Pictures. It is a photorealistic computer animated remake of Disney's traditionally animated 1994 film of the same name. The film stars the voices of Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Alfre Woodard, Billy Eichner, John Kani, John Oliver, and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, as well as James Earl Jones reprising his role from

THROUGH THE DIPLOMATS LENS PHOTO EXHIBITION

The First Lady opened a photo exhibition by Kenyan Diplomats dubbed, ‘Kenya Through the Diplomats Lens’ on 13th June 2019. “This Exhibition celebrates our country’s diversity and also provides appreciation of culture, heritage and harmony through photographs.

As a result of its empowerment and mentorship projects, it will also have great social impact that will inspire and nurture the talents our youth in photo-art,” the First Lady said. The photo exhibition showcases a unique collection of photographs taken 24 | COUTURE AFRICA

the original film. The plot follows Simba, a young lion who must embrace his role as the rightful king of his native land following the murder of his father, Mufasa, at the hands of his uncle, Scar. Plans for a remake of The Lion King were confirmed in September 2016 following the success of Disney's The Jungle Book, also directed by Favreau.

Much of the main cast signed in early 2017, and principal production began in mid-2017

on a blue screen stage in Los Angeles. With an estimated budget of around $260 million, it is one of the most expensive films ever made. The film was theatrically released in the United States on July 19, 2019, and has grossed over $1.2 billion worldwide, becoming the second highest-grossing film of 2019, the third highest-grossing animated film, and the 18th highest-grossing film of alltime.

by members of the diplomatic community in Kenya illustrating the nation’s beauty and diversity. It also features photographs taken by students from Kibera sponsored by the Nikon Photo School, who through pictures, communicated their thoughts, imagination and passion. Proceeds from the sale of the photographs will go towards supporting Destiny Children’s Centre which caters for orphaned children in Kibera and Karika Care Giving Centre for the elderly in Kawangware, Nairobi. Sports, Culture and Heritage

Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed said the exhibition was a step in the right direction as it promoted the preservation of the country’s Cultural and National Heritage. The CS pointed out that the event created a new watermark in the recognition of photography as form of art with immense economic potential. Other speakers included Director General NMK Dr. Mzalendo Kibunjia and Iraqi Amb.to Kenya Burhan Al-Jaf who is also the Chairman of the ‘Kenya Through the Diplomat’s Lens’ photo exhibition.

COUTURE NEWS | CULTURE

NEW DAUGHTERS OF AFRICA

Showcasing the work of more than 200 women writers of African descent, this major international collection celebrates their contributions to literature and international culture. Twenty-five years ago, Margaret Busby’s ground-breaking anthology Daughters of Africa illuminated the ‘silent, forgotten, underrated voices of black women’ (The Washington Post). Published to international acclaim, it was hailed as ‘an extraordinary body of achievement… a vital document of lost history’ (The Sunday Times).

Featuring women across the diaspora, New Daughters of Africa illuminates the richness and cultural history of this original continent and its enduring influence, while reflecting our own lives and issues today. Bold and insightful, brilliant in its intimacy and universality, this essential volume honours the talents of African daughters and the inspiring legacy that connects them—and all of us.

RUSINGA CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2019

Rusinga Festival celebrates its 8th edition in Rusinga Island, 19th and 20th December.

The festival offers two days of music, fashion, film, food, artistry, literature, sports and conversations that take you back in time into the wealth of the Suba Culture.

The festival is a cultural answer to the question, "Can a people die?" As a result of assimilation and intermarriage with the Luo, the Suba culture has been under pressure and the language is now listed in UNESCO's Red Book of Endangered Languages (2003).

The 2019 edition is tailored along the theme “The Island Remembers” – which gives us a reason to reminisce, celebrate, re-imagine and connect Rusinga Island to the world through art, culture and literature.

BURNA BOY’S AFRICAN GIANT

African Giant is the fourth studio album by Nigerian singer Burna Boy. It was released in the United States by Atlantic Records/Bad Habit and abroad by Warner Music on July 26, 2019. The album has been supported by five singles: "Gbona", "On the Low", Killin Dem", "Dangote" and "Anybody".

Burna Boy is one of West Africa’s brightest rising stars and has long been poised for a crossover moment as a capable artiste across the globe. Apply reviewed by Spin. com, they say African Giant has a wide scope, evoking the psychedelic funk of

legendary Nigerian artists like Lagbaja and of course Fela Kuti; the intimate rhythms of slower Beenie Man or Vybez Kartel records; and bass-heavy grooves of modern R&B. Key to accomplishing this is Burna’s rich understanding of the music that he plays with. The shared DNA between R&B, rap, reggae, funk, and afrobeat allow the singer to mess with the sounds and techniques of music he grew up on, like King Sunny Ade or Bob Marley or DMX.

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COUTURE NEWS | EVENTS

PLASCON COLOUR RUN

Sunday 11th August, Uhuru Gardens

The 3rd Edition of the Annual Colour Run will be beyond spectacular! We will hit the 5km colour track and this edition will have more colour stations as well as a surprise coloured bubble zone!

THE MUGITHI FESTIVAL

Sunday 8th September, Barclays Sports Club, Thika The Mugithi Festival is a celebration of gikuyu tradition, music, food, art and fashion brought to you in the form of a concert.

SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR

Friday 16th August, Citam Karen

Soweto Gospel Choir is described as the best Choir in the world, boasting two Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, and several SA Music Awards! They are finally going to be live in Kenya alongside some of Kenya's biggest names: SpellCast, Redfourth Chorus, Pitson & Karura Voices and many more! It shall be an Old Church Choir Experience! You cannot miss the Avulekile Amasango (Open Gates) Family concert.

Psalm 24:7-9 Fling wide the gates, open the ancient doors, and the great king will come in. 8 Who is this great king? He is the Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, victorious in battle. 9 Fling wide the gates, open the ancient doors, and the great king will come in.

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COUTURE NEWS | EVENTS

KENYA YOUTH SUMMIT

12th – 13th August, Strathmore Business School There is an incredible, untapped potential of 1.8 billion global citizens who largely hold the same ideas about how to transform our societies for the better through innovative forms of problemsolving. Join us in working to leverage the youth for solutions to local and global issues. Together, we can connect, be better informed and inspired.

NYEGE NYEGE FESTIVAL

5th – 8th September 2019, Jinja Uganda NYEGE NYEGE means the Fantastic Feeling of a sudden uncontrollable urge to Move, Shake or Dance! It’s Extreme! It’s Non Stop! It’s Nyege Nyege! A gathering most unique in the whole World! The festival takes place in a breathtaking forest on the shores on River Nile, just a few minutes away from the Source and has a great Camping Village. Find out if you can resist the Nyege Nyege Fever....

LUO FESTIVAL

Saturday 31st August, Carnivore Grounds The Luo Festival is the celebration of Luo Culture, A culture of Class, Trendsetters, Pace Setters and the Learned. Live Once, Live Well.The only event where everyone is a V.I.P. but do we say!!! YOU DONT HAVE TO BE A LUO TO ATTEND, LUO IS NOT A TRIBE.... IT'S A CALLING.LIVE ONCE LIVE WELL.

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COUTURE EVENTS

NAIROBI FILM FESTIVAL WHEN: 6th – 16th June 2019 WHERE: Prestige Cinema, Nairobi WHO: Film Lovers And Industry Supporters

Adhering to its mission to bring the best of the independent cinema world to Nairobi, this year’s Festival is lined up with not only Kenyan films but also films from Africa and the Afro-Latin/Afro-Caribbean regions and diasporas. The Festival opened with the premier of a Mugambi Nthiga’s directorial debut, LUSALA. Other feature films that showed this year were Adama, Cook Off, Keteke , City of God, Subira, Miriam Mente , Talking About Trees, Yuli, The Tokoloshe, Tango Negro, Sew the Winter to My Skin, My Friend Fela, Liyana, Akasha, The Extraordinary Journey of Celeste Garcia, Mercy of the Jungle, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, Five Fingers for Marseilles and The Burial of Kojo.

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COUTURE EVENTS

COUTURE AFRICA | 29

COUTURE EVENTS

TRAVEL WEAR REIMAGINED WHEN: July 2019 WHERE: New York Fashion Week WHO: The Best of African Designers

During the 2019 New York fashion showcases, Zimbabwean Brand Shangani Fashions reimagined fall-winter styling for the modern traveler.

The brand emerged on the New York runways starting in 2017 by redefining women’s travel-wear with a contemporary African esthetic that embodies African culture and history. The name is derived from “Shoshangani” which means traveler and is also an African tribe who dwelled near the Shangani River in Zimbabwe. The introduction of his and her matching style sets are an adorable signature look by Shangani that can add to the romance of any travel get-away.

Photo Credits: Macintosh Smith (Runway Photography)

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Afrostreet by Yvonne continues to amaze us with every collection she puts together. The bright prints that accent the lovely yellow fabric brings this collection to life in effortless style and intelligently thought out cuts. True Couture Chic!

Shoot Production: Nadia Macharia Model: Mokeira of Ajuma Limited Photography: Riz Mehar of Mehar Images Make-up: Andy Nicole of Lintons College of Beauty

Hair: Dgohnie of Dgohnie Hair Empire using Darling Hair

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COUTURE HISTORY

MUSIKLY SPEAKING AT THE TRIBAL EYE

Musikly Speaking a trio of female musicians and singers, consisting of Joy Mboya, Suzanne Gachukia and Susan Matiba, burst on the Nairobi music scene in the 1980s, following the demise of the African Heritage Band. Musikly Speaking performed at the Stanford Shopping Centre in California for the opening of The Tribal Eye, an African Heritage Shop. Their costumes included Kikoi and Khanga from Kenya, Kente cloth from Ghana, and Ase Oke and Okene cloth from Nigeria and Bokolonfini from Mali.

Musikly Speaking merged with the African Heritage Band when Suzanne Gachukia married Gido Kibokutsya, the last remaining member of African Heritage Band (above). They then formed the group Zannaziki .

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COUTURE HISTORY

EYE

ne e demise of e in

Heritage o African he group

Models in African Heritage designs, including mudcloth from Mali (left) and shimmering Okene cloth from Nigeria (right), paraded through the shopping mall while Musikly Speaking performed at various locations (opposite page).

Photos from My Journey Through African Heritage by Alan Donovan. www.africanheritagebook.com COUTURE AFRICA | 47

Early African Heritage COUTURE HISTORY

Early African Heritage Fashions

Left: Hollywood, California: The first gown designed f created of Ethiopian Shema cloth by Alan Donovan. L Maasai Lodge, above, and African Heritage House, belo Above Right: Former Miss World, Persis Khambatta, m brides in Kenya, a low backed gown (see blue gown o Ashanti Kente cloth.

Photo by David Beatty

Above: The Vanishing Textiles of Africa, Pan African fashion collection from African Heritage.

Right: A model alights from a black limousine at Black Expo in Chicago’s Ampitheatre, wearing gown of Ethiopian Shema Cloth. Male model in Kenyan Maridadi overalls and Wakamba beadwork. Aretha Franklin and the Jackson Five were among daily performers. Part of a nation wide tour of the USA by Alan Donovan in l97l.

My Journey Through African Heritage by Alan Donovan.

Above:Photos Thefrom Vanishing Textiles of Africa, Pan African fashion collection from African Heritage.

Photo by David Beatty

www.africanheritagebook.com

Right: A model alights from a black limousine at Black Expo in Chicago’s Ampitheatre, wearing gown of Ethiopian Shema Cloth. Male model in Kenyan Maridadi overalls and Wakamba beadwork. Aretha Franklin and the Jackson Five were among daily performers. Part of a nation wide tour of the USA by Alan Donovan in l97l.

Photos from My Journey Through African Heritage by Alan Donovan. www.africanheritagebook.com 48 | COUTURE AFRICA

age Fashions

COUTURE HISTORY

for Kenya’s African Heritage Festival Later versions of the gown at ow. models a gown worn by many opposite page) trimmed with

Left: Hollywood, California: The first gown designed for Kenya’s African Heritage Festival created of Ethiopian Shema cloth by Alan Donovan. Later versions of the gown at Maasai Lodge, above, and African Heritage House, below.

Above Right: Former Miss World, Persis Khambatta, models a gown worn by many brides in Kenya, a low backed gown (see blue gown opposite page) trimmed with Ashanti Kente cloth.

Beatty

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COUTURE | CELEBRITY FASHION

LISA CHRISTOFFERSEN: LIVING FOR ART, FASHION AND ADVENTURE

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Maybe it is because she was born in Africa, but Tanzanian-born Danish Lisa Christoffersen has always had a strong connection with African art and nature. She has made a successful career as an author, an interior designer, an African art curator and as an organiser and hostess of exclusive bush trips. She is as consumed by her passions in her 50’s as she was in her 20’s making her a powerhouse in the Kenyan art scene. We had the luxury of talking to her about her love for African art, her inspiration and what she covets most.

By Jackline Mukami Make-up Courtesy of Lancôme Kenya Hair by Dennis of Dgohnie Hair Empire

Photography by Michael Murunga & Lex Nduva from Visual Dialogue KE

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Couture Africa [CA]: First we would love to know what motivated you to move and develop your career here in Kenya.

Lisa Christoffersen [LC]: I was introduced to Art by Dr. Koloss who is quite an authority on African tribal arts and the curator for a tribal art museum in Berlin, Germany. I had the advantage of frequent travels to and from Africa since I used to work for Scandinavian Airlines who back then, was the handling agent for most major airlines. That is how I got to meet Dr. Koloss during one my frequent visits to Africa. He advised me to focus on African art. Which is what I did and when my daughter turned a year old, we moved to Nairobi and I continued with curating.

I would buy art from collectors and build up a market which has subsequently grown to where I work with artists and photographers.

is about having a personal relationship with them. I love to work with artists who have good imagery and who have the ability to express themselves through art. I am constantly working with new artists and I always try to bring in new artists and give them a window to interact, network and grow. For instance, we have an interactive monthly show with KTN where the artists showcase their work. I also organize many events and hold solo exhibitions for the artists.

CA: Your home is an art gallery on its own, tell me about that.

LC: My beautiful home is the home gallery.

It is the “go-to” place for African art collectors from across the globe. However, we are currently seeking more visibility by installing art in office buildings, hotels and apartments. For instance you will find art at The Lord Errol in Runda and the Norfolk CA: You actually moved to Kenya, from Hotel. We also supply little pieces of quality Denmark, with 22 suitcases at 22 years that people can take back home. of age. Was there any hidden meaning in CA: What do you offer your clients? that?

LC: [Laughs] actually, there was none. LC: We usually have an art menu which we I had been a collector for years and it can either email our clients or take them just happened that all the things I had through in person. The art menu shows collected or inherited at the time fitted in 22 images of different artists in Kenya and their suitcases. Luckily enough, I used to work bios. We also recommend them to meet for the airlines so that made the transition with the said artists and see the artist’s passion first-hand. Art is very personal. I much easier. read my client’s emotions the moment I set CA: What has fascinated you about Kenya the art in front of them. It is that immediate reaction that makes you know if they have so far?

LC: Kenya has so much to offer. Especially a connection with that piece. the city. You are living in this beautiful cosmopolitan town that it is full of an CA: Is there any specific place you always eclectic mix of interesting people from return to when you need an art fix? all over the world who inspire you. Also, LC: I am surrounded by art on a daily learning the different cultures is quite a basis. There is art all over the place - in my home, the office, the kitchen, the bathroom wonderful experience.

- everywhere. So I have a daily fix whether CA: When it comes to art, where do you I like or not. draw your inspiration from?

LC: I love safaris quite a lot. I draw much CA: What is your ultimate dream project? inspiration from going out into the bush LC: My ambition is to get art into JKIA. and watching nature - this is where I get I find it horrifying that you arrive at the to gather my thoughts and refresh. I also airport and all you see are white blank walls get inspired by looking back at all the art and a banner saying “Welcome to Kenya”. pieces left behind by various artists in How inspiring is that for a tourist coming to Kenya for the first time? We need to museums. have inspiring art which people can read CA: How would you describe your through the history, the stories and about other destinations in Kenya as they wait for curatorial process?

LC: I specialize in African tribal art. I curate their luggage. pieces from artists and photographers and give them a touch of inspiration - which is CA: Is there any particular type of art that quite interesting since a lot of background appeals to you or anything that unites all research is required and you got to write it the works in your collection?

LC: I love the architectural of spears and all down. shields. I also love the traditional stools – CA: Can you tell us a bit about how you they are beautiful, tribal and tell a story. As my kids grew up, we used sit on the threebuild relationships with artists?

LC: I do meet with a lot of them. There are legged tribal stools. upcoming artists all over the place and again, not only are we talking paintings, but also sculptures and photography. I think it

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CA: If you had an unlimited budget to get any piece, what would be on your wish list?

LC: I would not give any name or artist at all – there are so many fabulous artists and diverse styles out there. Also, it all depends with the space I have to play with. It could also depend on my canvases. I always like to bring in an element of variety so that I have different techniques, colours and themes that would all fit into one space.

money. They are thus forced to drop their leading guidebooks, Bush Friendly Tips prices for survival purposes. for Girls (Boys Too!): A Living Safari Guide to Kenya, now in its second Edition and CA: How can we then break this stereotype? there is another children’s book coming LC: In this case, what we do is offer clients up. It is a very comprehensive, fulfilling the option of paying for a particular piece and an informative book. The book is very of art over time with little interest. We also affordable, and we also sell to Kenyans do free art installations and decorations to inspire them to go and explore their in office spaces and hotels where there is country. There is so much richness in the guaranteed human traffic; this creates a Country that the average Kenyan does not window to sell the pieces to the general know exists. public. You just have to give us the space and we will put the labels. Also, through CA: Now that you are always on the move, magazines and social media since this what is your ultimate destination? is where we share the stories and let LC: I would say Amazon. I would also love potential clients know that they can buy to go for a long drive from Kenya and end any particular piece of art that they love up in Cape Town. I prefer the real jungle over a period of time. over the concrete jungle.

CA: How has your taste in art evolved over the years?

LC: My taste changes all the time. I think the more you see, the more your eyes are visually opening too. My personal taste is very earthy. I prefer the organic earthy tones, sepias, warm bronzes and gold to loud, bright colours for home. For the CA: Any exciting projects coming up? offices however, I can bounce out with a lot LC: I do a lot of empowerment programs in Kibera. I also help plan and set up art of colours and energy. exhibitions with upcoming artists. I have CA: Which artists, writers, academics, provided them with clients, and they have curators, and other creative thinkers have had commissions from the sales of their art pieces. influenced your curatorial practice?

LC: Anthony Lazarus has always been a big name. He is not only a unique artist CA: What is the most frustrating aspect but also a remarkable photographer and of your job as a curator? And the most also designs beautiful lounges. He also rewarding one? happens to have great knowledge about LC: Frustrations set in when people do not pay for the pieces. It is frustrating that safaris so we call him the “safari guy”. you have to waste your energy on debt CA: “Exhibitions need not only take place collection. The rewarding part is being in galleries, need not only involve displaying the creator. Creating beautiful spaces objects. Art can appear where we expect and always being surrounded by beautiful it least.” A quote by the influential curator people with positive energy is always and director of Serpentine Gallery, Hans- rewarding. I rejoice in other people’s Ulrich Obrist. Do you agree with him? If you happiness. do, what are you doing towards achieving CA: How would you describe the Kenyan this?

LC: I agree. Art can be found everywhere. art scene?

From homes to offices provided there is LC: It is fantastic and continues to grow human traffic. We are currently working every single day. With the 42 tribes we have with the Ministry of Culture and Heritage in Kenya, we have huge art pieces from the to make the museum more exciting. Music various tribal backgrounds, and each tells is also art - so we are planning to do a a story. For instance, the Pokot women live concert with our famous singer Gilad have clay pots and the Samburu have at the national museum – among a lot of blacksmiths who carve spearheads and other ideas we are brainstorming with the all – each of these has the wow factor in it. It has nothing to do with commercialism Ministry Cabinet Secretary. at all. And that is where I come in - I am CA: The art market has a reputation of trying to encourage Kenyans to embrace being a playground for the elite. What is their heritage, appreciate and invest in art. We have to preserve that heritage your experience of this?

LC: I actually find that the Kenyan market and pass these cultural traditions to future taken off and plunged. However, the Art generations. market being a playground for the elite has been the case. The market can be CA: Brings me to the question about Bush challenging though - there are actually very trips… few clients out there who out of respect, will LC: Bush trips is the safari company I use pay the exact price indicated on a painting. to book trips and also organize fun things This is a challenge for many artists who for guests like bush breakfast and yoga know their worth but at the same time need for those willing to. We just make it fun for everyone.

CA: What has been your wildest adventure to date?

LC: They are many!! But the most unforgettable is when I crashed in a single engine aircraft flying over Lake Tanganyika while attempting to land into Kigoma airstrip.

CA: As an art curator and interior designer, you must constantly be looking into the future. How do you do it?

LC: I look into the future in terms of art and inspiration and I think there is massive growth potential. There is massive potential for our youth to embrace art and do right by it, giving them the belief that there is hope out there. I always encourage new artists to come and talk to us, then we can see how we can help and how we can give them a window to hone their craft through networking and exhibitions.

CA: Tell us about your love for fashion and the designing of your signature pashmina shawls.

LC: I love fashion. A lot. All the designs on my pashmina shawls are African inspired – some are inspired from Congolese textiles while others are inspired from wildlife. They all come in different designs and weight. I have an album with different designs from which clients can come look and select the design they want. My pashminas are made from the finest fibre in the world. That means that people who are allergic to wool can wear these.

CA: Who would you dream of wearing one of your pashminas?

LC: Meryl Streep would be an amazing woman to dress. The other day I dressed the female ambassadors to Kenya and it was quite an honour. The list is endless.

CA: And this inspired you to write a guidebook, yes?

LC: Exactly. I am the author of Kenya’s

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CA: You have created quite the career for yourself. I imagine you have “developed” your own personal philosophy.

LC: My philosophy is to be happy. Life has taught me that you cannot buy health, love, happiness or freedom with any amount of money. I take it from my mum who has always told me to live each day as if it is my last. What life throws at you, embrace it and kiss it. Do not throw it away like a boomerang. Life is short - you just do not know what is going to happen next. I have my own story that made me realize the importance of life.

LC: Certainly. Most women think their world is over once they are diagnosed with cancer. I get calls from numerous people who have no idea what is next after the C-word, so I often open up my home to these people and offer them whichever help I can, be it inspirational or suggesting the right supplements they can use just to keep them going.

CA: Do you have any morning routines or rituals that help start your day?

LC: I love kickboxing. It is quite refreshing and re-energizing and helps strengthen my mind and body. I have a personal trainer who helps me with it three to four times in CA: Are we talking about you surviving a week. cancer?

LC: Yes, we are.

CA: How do you balance between art, interior design job, book writing and CA: Tell us about that journey. motherhood?

LC: I was diagnosed with Stage 3 cancer LC: Twenty-four hours in a day Jackie. I back in 2006 after my lungs collapsed. have time to do everything.

I was not feeling well, and after several consultations, I moved to South Africa CA: How would you describe your personal for further treatment. I remember being style? told I had 10 days to live. During my LC: I always have more of an elegant and first chemotherapy treatment, my lungs glam look than a boring look. I have my collapsed, I hemorrhaged into my lungs everyday look, my workout look, my glam and stopped breathing. I went into a look and then I have the bush look, which I coma. My body had rejected seven blood always love to say “because you go bush, transfusions and within minutes, as my never look bush.” I love accessorizing as temperature soared so high, my body well. “died” and I woke up many days later in ICU. All I could do was communicate with CA: What is the most prized possession in family and friends through pen and paper. your wardrobe?

When I woke up in the ICU, I told myself LC: My pashmina shawls. that I have no time to be sick here. I was ready to lose my hair, I was ready for the CA: Three items you can never leave the makeover. Fortunately, I had lots of love all house without? around me to push me through.

LC: My handbag, jewellery and of course my pashmina shawl.

CA: What went through your mind when the doctors told you that you have 10 days CA: Your definition of beauty? to live?

LC: A woman's beauty is her personality LC: I never once thought that I would that shines through her. die. When we are told we have cancer, we always think, me? Cancer? But I am a CA: What would you tell anyone who wants healthy person! It actually never dawned on to curate? me until I was in the ICU since I suddenly LC: There is no price on everything. had a lot of time to think. I kept thinking, Sometimes it is not always about money.

I have two kids to raise places to go and Do what you are passionate about, without people to see. I also happened to do a lot expecting anything in return and eventually of writing then. it is going to pay back.

CA: Women who face cancer have to dig deep. On a personal level, what has changed for you post-cancer?

LC: I feel better than I did when I was thirty.

My skin looks better than it ever has. I take over 40 supplements every single morning and I believe in them. I believe that you are what you eat, and that beauty comes from within.

CA: What is in future for Lisa?

LC: The world is my oyster. I take a day at a time. You never know where or what or who the world is going to bring tomorrow.

CA: Lisa in three words?

LC: Inspirational. Conqueror. Good friend.

CA: That certainly makes sense. You have not only endured and coped, but also learned to identify with other cancer patients.

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COUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP

YOUR PERFECT SHADE Finding the right shade of foundation does always feel like such an exact science that we can almost never get right. What we have come to learn, [after many years dabbling in the beauty world and testing on an array of different brands], is that sometimes, you may not find your perfect shade in a particular brand. If you cannot seem to get it just right in one brand, try out another brand altogether – do no force it. Do, however keep the following in mind when trying to match your foundation: Undertones: foundations generally have a reddish pigment for people with cool undertones and a yellowish pigment for people with warm undertones. You can check on www.coutureafricamag.com for a guide on how to know your skin undertones, be they war, cool or neutral. Knowing your skin tone will help you make the right decision when you are faced with two shades that are almost similar. When you look closer, they would tend to have two different undertones.

Skin Pigmentation: if you, like many women of African descent have skin pigmentation, opt to march your foundation with the darker tones of your skin instead of the lighter tones, and use a lighter foundation as a highlighter; under your eyes, on your cheeks and on your t-zone.

The Jawline Test: let us all move past the debate of whether we should test foundation on the inside of your wrist or top of your hand. Test your foundation where it is going to be applied; on your face. The jawline is the most appropriate as it tends to be the one part of your face with the least colour variation across seasons.

With so much to choose from, where does one get started? Well, this all depends on your flavour. Are you a liquid girl, cream-topowder girl or stick girl?

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COUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP

LIQUID FOUNDATIONS

Coverage: Light to Medium Application: Foundation Brush or Sponge

EDITOR’S PICK Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation Why We Love It: It is an oil free, longwearing, natural matte foundation that creates a velvetysmooth complexion for up to 24 hours. It is transfer free and smudge free, giving you confidence to carry on with your day and maximise your power.

As Lancôme's best-selling liquid foundation Teint Idole Ultra Wear is available in 45 shades, making it easier than ever to find your perfect shade. You can find your perfect shade with their Foundation Shade Finder at Lintons outlets.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Liquid Foundation Why We Love It: It is light airy transfer-free finish that does not run, even though you do.

Pauline Cosmetics My Colour Liquid Foundation Why We Love It: It has a medium to full coverage with a matt finish.

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COUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP

CREAM-TOPOWDER Coverage: Medium to Full Application: Sponge [or fingers]

Sleek Make-up Oil Free Crème to Powder Foundation Why We Love It: It gives you full coverage on very little product.

BLK/OPL Pore Perfecting Powder Foundation Why We Love It: Slightly off your true colour…? It colour-corrects and adjusts to your skin’s tone.

Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Why We Love It: It is easy to apply and lightweight yet has full coverage with a matt finish

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COUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP

FOUNDATION STICKS Coverage: Full Application: Stick then Sponge or Brush

Revlon PhotoReady Insta-fix Foundation Why We Love It: It can be used as a spot concealer for touch-ups on the go.

Milani Conceal and Perfect Foundation Stick Why We Love it: It is full coverage and weightless with a satin matte finish.

Black-up Contouring Stick Foundation Why We Love It: It is double-sided meaning double the value and pre-matched for easy face sculpting.

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COUTURE BEAUTY | HAIR

THE EXTENSIONS FOR YOU With so much to choose from, it has become more and more difficult to decide the best hair extension solution for you. Just like your brows, avoid going with the trends and choose one technique that will work for your style requirements and comfort levels on maintenance.

WEAVING Advantage: Protective on hair.

Seemingly dated, this is where lines are Disadvantage: Severely damages hairline plaited onto your hair and rows of extensions where the hairline is exposed, and may limit sown on. styling where hair is not.

BONDING

TAPE-IN EXTENSIONS

This is where the hair extension is stuck or bonded to your hair with glue, as opposed to sown on. It can be done for a full-head weave, or for individual tracks to give your hair more body.

This is a slight upgrade from the typical bonding we know as the extensions come Advantages: East to put on and take off and already pre-set with tape that is then stuck offers flexibility in styling if done well. onto your hair with the help of liquid tape.

Disadvantages: May cause hair breakage because of the stress on the roots.

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Advantages: Easier to put on than traditional bonding.

Disadvantages: Has been known to fall off if not well done and may still damage your roots.

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MICRO WEAVING Here small clusters of hair are attached to small clusters of your own hair, this technique took the industry by storm!

Advantages: Natural finish and can be styled any way you like.

Disadvantages: Notably more expensive and strains your natural hair.

WIGS

CLIP-ONS

The new trend [back to basics], simple wigs These are great if you already have some seem to be the go-to solution for today’s decent length on your hair. The clip-ons can be done as tracks, or as a bun depending on busy yet image conscious woman. the look you are going for.

Advantages: Full hair protection and multiple Advantages: Easy to put on and take off as weaves bring multiple styles.

Disadvantages: Can get uncomfortable you prefer. in hot weather and limited styling on each Disadvantages: You may need slightly above average hair skills to get them done weave. well.

LACE FRONT WIGS We all know them…where the lace at the front is used to stick the weave onto your hairline.

It had become the new go-to technique for upmarket human hair wigs.

Advantages: Glued on, so no mishaps.

Provides multiple styling opportunities.

Disadvantages: Could damage hairline if not done well and needs to be done by a professional.

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COUTURE | BEAUTY

Definition: Tea made from unfermented leaves that is pale in colour.

Green tea has been used for ages in the beauty industry mostly because of its antioxidant and antiaging benefits. It has also been used in the cosmetics world offering an array of scents in perfumes and shower gels.

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BENEF ITS OF GREEN TEA Some of the benefits that have made it the super beauty ingredient it is today include:

Anti-Inflammatory: The catechins in green tea reduce irritation, redness, and swelling making it a powerful antiinflammatory.

Hydration: It contains Vitamin E which supports new skin cell growth and also acts an intense hydrator for soft and nourished skin.

Antioxidant: Green tea contains a powerful antioxidant called EGCG that fights DNA damage from UV rays to prevent skin cancer and as such also acts as an antiaging component

Brightening: The caffeine and tannins in green tea help shrink blood vessels around the eyes, making it a miracle for treating puffy eyes and dark circles.

Antibacterial: Polyphenols in green tea damage bacterial membranes and fight against infection, meaning that it is a useful tool for treating bacterial growth that causes acne.

Antiaging: It contains Vitamin B2 which plays an essential role in maintaining collagen levels for youthful skin structure and firmness.

Hair Growth: Green tea leaf fibres are proven to stimulate hair growth, thanks to catechins and polyphenols stimulating cell turnover in hair follicles.

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COUTURE | BEAUTY

MUST-HAVE PRODUCTS Falling in love with green tea? Here are some amazing products to get you onto the wave and into this

movement.

Elizabeth Arden Green Tea Perfume The perfect addition to your classic collection.

Garnier Balancing Botanical Gel Wash and Toner 96% natural and purifying from the fresh range of Garner’s natural collection.

Yves Rocher Green Tea Shower Gel and Body Lotion and Perfume Once you go green, you don’t go back, so why not get a full collection.

Bvlgari Green Tea by Bvlgari A refreshing, trend setting unisex scent.

Dr Organic Green Tea Face Wash For a truly refreshing cleanse.

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Green Tea Fitness Shampoo, Conditioner and Dry Shampoo Suitable for all hair types and all hair care needs.

COUTURECOUTURE BEAUTY | MAKE-UP | BEAUTY

GREEN TEA HACKS With all the benefits of green tea, here as some quick green tea quick fixes you can do at home with the raw product:

Puffiness: Place two damp green tea, tea bags [after having your cut of green tea perhaps] into the freezer for about 20minutes and then place the now cold, almost frozen green tea bags on your eyes to instantly reduce puffiness. If you have dark circles under your eyes, do this every other day.

Cooling Toner: Take ¼ cup cooled green tea, 2 tablespoons of cucumber juice and 1 tablespoon of aloe Vera gel and blend thoroughly. Pour into a spray bottle and you have a cooling, soothing toner perfect for every skin tone. Keep stored in the fridge.

Brightening Face Mask: Combine 2 tablespoons of green tea, one tablespoon of baking soda, a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of olive oil. Apply onto your face and leave on for 15 minutes for an instantly brighter appearance.

Green Tea Conditioner: Steep 2 tea bags in 3 cups of hot water, allow to cool, and use as a final rinse after washing for a smooth silky finish.

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COUTURE | TRAVEL

HOW 6 BUSY WOMEN CAN ENJOY 56 HOURS IN THE BUSH!!!!

Early Sunday morning 6 ladies got up bright and early headed to Wilson Airport for a much-needed coffee and breakfast at Java at The Aero Club by 7am. The service was terribly slow at JAVA, Sue went onto google maps to find the kitchen!

By Lisa Christoffersen Pictures Courtesy of Amb. Julia Pataki

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COUTURE | TRAVEL Next Stop - Departure and off we go to our Private Scenic Air Charter. The red carpet is laid out and of course we have to take a group photo by the steps of the plane, before boarding. Sam our delightful Pilot gives us a very warm welcome and reminds us to buckle up and put our seats in the upright position before taking off. Sue who decides to join Sam upfront as his co-pilot responds, “I think we should make sure the pilot is in the upright position before landing”.

It was raining upon take off, but as we flew above the clouds we were able to catch the gorgeous sunshine. Scenics’ Airplane is a Deluxe 12 seater Caravan, kitted out with leather arm chairs that rotate, each seat has its own headset with microphone so we can listen to Sam giving us the aerial scenic chat as we fly over the Mara, and we can talk amongst ourselves. Sejal from the charter company had the inflight service sorted and immediately we were airborne we hear one of our favourite sounds come on as we pop a champagne bottle open. Approaching the Mara, Sam flies low and we have the most magical scenic flight tour. Flying right down to Sand River which borders onto the Serengeti in Tanzania we see our first migration crossing – hundreds of thousands of wildebeest dotting the green plains of the savannah – as we are listening to the Lion King’s Circle of Life song. It was so emotional; tears were rolling down my cheeks. I had to remind myself how lucky and blessed I am to be living in such a beautiful country as Kenya, the place I call home.

An hour later we land at Musiara Air Strip, to be met by one of my favourite Driver Guides Solomon. With a big smile he welcomes each lady to The Mara and our luggage gets loaded into Governors’ 4 X 4 Land Cruiser [it is all open with space for all of us and all the many bags we as women tend to bring with us wherever we go....even to the bush… because you go bush – you don’t have to look bush!]. Hugs and bye’s to Sam, to see him again on Tuesday afternoon.

Once settled in the 4 X 4 and Solomon takes us straight from the airstrip out on a game drive. We had only driven for about 20 minutes before we spotted two lionesses with cubs that were 6 – 7 months old. We sat and watched their playfulness and the love of a mother licking her cubs for quite some time. We continued our safari along and found a clearing where we could get out and have a pit-stop, where Solomon adorned the bonnet of his car with a red Maasai blanket and brought out out coffee & tea and delicious homemade cookies from camp. Driving on through the bush we see hundreds of Topy together [which is rather rare], with the odd guard or three standing on an anthill looking out for any ‘danger’.

We also saw many old rugged bull buffalo lying in the mud, towers of giraffe elegantly

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COUTURE | TRAVEL walking through the savannah plains, dirty hyena’s and lots of other game. So many animals with babies.

Finally heading to Little Governors where 3 of the ladies were staying, we arrived at the car park and walked down the steps to the river, where we entered a boat and were pulled across the Mara river to the other side. Arriving at Little Governors we were met by their friendly staff and a very big welcome by the camp’s fabulous manager – Nicholas. A wonderful lunch was served right by the big swamp where resident the hippo and crocodile live.

Together with lots of resident birds, there is constant action and always something captivating to see. Amelia was concerned if a creepy crawly could squeeze through the zips of the tent: I told her to put a sock in it.

After a delicious lunch, Sue, Sejal & I crossed the river and back to our 4 X 4 where Solomon was waiting. It is about a ten-minute drive from Little Governors to IL Moran Camp which is part of the Governors Camps Collection. We checked in, were shown to our rooms and given the brief about the functionality of our tent. Sue quipped, “I hope nothing creeps into my room at night” and I responded, “Well, You should be so lucky” 30 minutes later we met on the wooden deck overlooking the river for a cup of tea, before driving back to Little Governors to pick Amelia, Alex & Katarina. We Enjoyed Solomon’s knowledge of the bush, wildlife, birds, flora & fauna. Solomon is an amazing guide, gentle, humorous and caring and one of Governor’s senior guides.

The sun started to go down and rolling past dramatic sapphire skies, time for sundowners!

And Just in time to find three handsome male lions [brothers] right next to each other. We stopped the vehicle and had our sundowners watching the playfulness of these three male lions. A little further down the plains, were the other two brothers. Driving back to camp there was so much colour in the skies, one could never capture this other than through the natural eye. We dropped the 3 ladies off once again at Little Governors just before darkness kicked in, and we headed back to our camp. We all slept very well after our first full day this Mara Safari.

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With a hot air balloon ride scheduled for sunrise, we requested a wake-up call for 4.30am and as we left our camp just before dawn, it started to rain. We got to the boat crossing and got soaked in the rain, but still could not complain. We walked up to the main lounge area, where tea & coffee was served. Our balloon pilots arrived and briefed all of us, eagerly awaiting to be told to walk down to the balloon departure area, only to be told that it was not only raining, but here was NO wind, so no ballooning that Monday morning, make a try tomorrow am, and hope for better weather and wind conditions.

Oh Well! Let’s have breakfast we all said, which is exactly what we did. Going on a hot air balloon safari was on Katarina’s bucket list and she had bought a bottle of champagne to celebrate this safari, which She decided we should have for breakfast and just enjoy the day and make the most of it, even if we did not go ballooning. We went on a game drive instead and Drove for about 7 hours, sighting amazing wildlife. A very amusing moment was when one of us asked Solomon to stop the car so she could pee behind the card.

The person pee’d, got back in the car, then another lady said I too need to pee, however Solomon did not hear that the second lady needed to get out, so started to drive off… we just heard the shouting…very funny!!! The highlight of our game drive was spotting a female leopard up a tree! When on safari and when one spots a Leopard which first of all is a very rare sight, one has to have Patience.

Patience is a virtue!!!!

Well our Dear Amelia has absolutely no patience and kept telling us that the leopard is not coming down, so let us just drive on and look for other game. I kept reassuring Amelia who has never seen a leopard on the ground to just be patience with a capital P. Our patience paid off. The leopard jumped down and walked through the bushes on the other side of the luggar, came out in complete openness when Amelia shouted, OMG this is better than sex!!!

Such exhilaration and excitement and certainly one of the many highlights of this Safari. We got back to our respective camps feeling very fulfilled and tired from a day driving through the bush; fresh air and memories that we will have forever. After dinner, upon returning to my tent, I zipped up and entered by bathroom to find lamps thrown down, soap dishes and glasses shattered on the floor… I am guessing a Bush Baby decided to come and clean up!

The Bush is always full of experiences!

We had another early morning wake-up call hoping for no rain and wind this morning so we can go up in the balloon. Arriving at Little Governors we are feeling so positive and YES, confirmed, we are flying this morning.

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COUTURE | TRAVEL In the middle of a field we have to go through Kenya Airport Security, sign our lives away on a disclaimer, and finally enjoy a cup of hot coffee whilst we get a brief from one of the three Balloon Pilots. All very exciting.

The next thing the balloons started blowing up and before we knew it we were told to climb into the basket. Our balloon pilot was a charming British Captain called Martin. As the basket gently lifted of the ground and we gained height we are allowed to stand up and WOW, what a sensation, to feel as if one is floating through the air over this magnificent part of the Mara, seeing more than we would ever see from the ground. The rays of the morning sun peeped through the clouds only to have a gorgeous warm sunburst sunrise five minutes later. Here we are flying high flying low and seeing so much. Stillness in the mind, emotions bubbling through my body with gratitude to be alive & able to enjoy yet another adventure.

The heavens opened one again enroute to the airstrip and Sam landed then we all reluctantly boarded our plane to return to Nairobi. Mind full of amazing adventures, experiences and memories! Until my next Bush Trip!!!

Martin made sure we had the perfect upright landing an hour later. “What goes up must come down,” Sue pointed out. Solomon was waiting for us where we landed and drove us about 1 km to where there was a complete Bush Breakfast set-up, chef tossing pancakes in the air and eggs cooked in any which way one desires, accompanied with bubbles.

Amazing how one has such appetite under the African skies in fresh air. We all enjoyed and chatted to our neighbouring passengers with the table farthest from us belonging to a Royal Family. We had this amazing circle of elephants around us. Everywhere we looked from where we sat, we saw elephants. All feeling delightfully full and content we jump back into Solomon’s 4 X 4 and continue our safari, this time on wheels. A couple of hours later we arrived back at Little Governors, enjoyed a lovely chilled laid-back lunch and before we knew it, it was time for us to gather our bags and head to Musiara airstrip for our return flight with Sam to Nairobi.

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FASHION . BEAUTY . CULTURE ISSUE 60

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THE FEMALE AMBASSADORIAL CORE

COUTURE | CELEBRITY FASHION

COUTURE Africa magazine had the honour and pleasure of sitting with and celebrating female diplomats living, working and enjoying Kenya.

We spoke to them about their travels, their thoughts on women empowerment and the future of women in Africa in the lovely setting of the Lord Errol restaurant in Runda. The day-long affair had these leading ladies start their day with a light brunch, a beauty session with Lancôme Paris and a chance to have a fashion moment with Lisa Christoffersen, Deepa Dosaja, Lucy Rao and Carole Kinoti.

Shoot Production: Olive Gachara and Lisa Christoffersen | Shoot Assistants: Gloria Wanjohi and Nadia Macharia | Photography:

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Michael Murunga, ADE |Make-up: Courtesy of Lancôme Kenya | Hair: Dennis of Dgohnie Hair Empire | Words: Jackline Mukami

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I

have been in Kenya for the past two years and what I have come to love about the country is the culture; Kenyan people are very welcoming and hospitable. Being a member of the East African Community, communication has also been easy for me considering we all use the same language – Swahili. I really appreciate this fact. I also love that we all have similar food and the fact that our culture is not that different, for example we have the Maasai people both in Kenya and Tanzania.

I am a strong believer of women empowerment, which means showing women, who occupy almost 51% of the population that we really need to focus and prioritize on our development. This is the group that needs to have a strong representation and focus on socio-economic matters and activities, which is why we say that if you want to empower a nation, you empower the woman. And even as we plan and budget for our nations, our budgets should be gender sensitive. We have to make sure that we allocate enough funds to reduce maternal mortality as well as empower women economically.

As a woman in leadership – being an ambassador and a lawyer by profession – my number one priority is to guide other women to better understand their rights and how they can go about accomplishing whatever they are after. I also strive to create awareness for women and capacity building for our community.

AMBASSADOR DR. PINDI CHANA Tanzanian Ambassador to Kenya

My Power is Justice.

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I strongly believe than women in Africa are on the rise. Take Tanzania for instance, we now have a female Vice President. We also have women occupying the position of Head of States in other countries around the continent such as Liberia and the Former Malawian leader. We are also very much engaged in many pledges such as environmental preservation and waste management. These are projects under UNEP and UN Habitat which you will find women spearheading and taking the initiative. Women really are on the rise; they now know their rights and privileges, and they can achieve anything they want provided that they have access to good quality education. That is why we have free education so that the girl child can have access to free education. I wish to see women take up more top positions in other fields too.

I strongly believe than women in Africa are on the rise. Take Tanzania for instance, we now have a female Vice President.

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FACT BOX How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is more formal. I go for quality classics vis-a-vis fashion brands.

If you were to live in any country in the world, which country would that be?

East west home is the best.

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AMBASSADOR ELIZABETH TAYLOR Columbian Ambassador to Kenya

My Power is Positivity.

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FACT BOX How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is classy and elegant with a lot of colour. I love colours since they express happiness. I am always happy.

If you were to live in any country in the world, which country would that be?

I would love the experience of moving to Asia.

…what I have found here in Kenya (as well as other countries that I have served as an ambassador including Rwanda and Ethiopia) is that a lot of their women are empowered. We now even have a female President in Ethiopia.

I

have been in Kenya for about three years now and I truly believe that Kenya is one of the most wonderful places one can live in. Coming to Kenya felt like coming home - everything felt similar to what we have back in Columbia. I love everything about the country, with nature being my first love. Nature here is very beautiful. I have background in environmental management and that says a lot about my love for nature and wildlife. I also came to love the people, their dances and the African sunsets.

Speaking on women empowerment, I believe it is all about making sure women feel confident enough in themselves and what they have. We also have to make sure we contribute to the agenda by recognizing the positive aspects women have and this means encouraging women especially in education and career development. I believe that education is one of the most important assets that a woman can possess, as it will eventually open many doors for her.

I have worked with and focus on people a lot. I believe in empowering others, helping them achieve their goals and training them in all aspects to help them advance. Beside this, my husband and I have been involved in a personal project that supports and sponsors education for a couple of kids in Kenya. I am very happy doing my regular job as a diplomat, but I also engage a lot with the social aspect.

I believe women in Africa are on the rise. For instance, what I have found here in Kenya (as well as other countries that I have served as an ambassador including Rwanda and Ethiopia) is that a lot of their women are empowered. We now even have a female President in Ethiopia. I think that things are changing and that development for the woman and everyone in Africa is moving at a quicker pace than before. We live in a more globalized world and people are now exposed to different opportunities, cultures and societies around the world, making interaction across cultures much easier.

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I

have been in Kenya for the last six years.

To be frank, I experienced a completely different culture when I came to Kenya.

The way of life and the surroundings was totally different from what I was used to. This is because Kenya gave me colours. I started to like the beautiful colour palette and the interesting architectural combinations the country has. The second thing that Kenya gave me was African Art, which I discovered thanks to Lisa Christoffersen. Art here is so unique and natural but unfortunately disappearing since it is not promoted in a way to preserve it. I therefore started to collect paintings from different artists with different styles. I am really into preserving traditions, cultures and customs - these are the three things I am taking with me and I would like to promote after I am done with my term.

Women empowerment is a top priority for me. Since I finished law school, I have been involved in promoting and preserving human rights. I have always strived to develop women and I have participated in a lot of activities that support women’s rights. I believe that without women society would not develop sustainably. It is very clear that we cannot live without women’s creativity to propel us ahead.

AMBASSADOR JULIA PATAKI Romanian Ambassador to Kenya

My Power is Persistence.

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I personally feel that women in Africa are on the rise. It is like an “explosion”. Women here are educated and they now know what they want, which I have seen in a lot of women.

The catch is how you can be successful.

If you look at her, you will see that she is heading down the right path. There are a few challenges here and there, however, when your values stick with your interests, nothing is impossible. We still are not where we should be, but we have made progress.

To get there, the young generation and everybody else has to take up their cause.

It is not about any woman in particular; it is about you and me. It is about how you convince both the men and women to do something since women empowerment depends on equal participation. However, since we are more than men – populationwise speaking – the responsibility is more on women. Additionally, education is the most important factor to help us take each other’s roles up.

I think that as an ambassador, the most important thing is how you manage your embassy. When you work in a leadership role for instance, you have to work twice as much as the man to measure up. You have to constantly prove yourself and keep learning.

I personally feel that women in Africa are on the rise. It is like an “explosion”.

Women here are educated, and they now know what they want, which I have seen in a lot of women.

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FACT BOX How would you describe your personal style?

I create my own style. Simple, elegant and unpredictable best describes me.

If you were to live in any country in the world, which country would that be?

I would go to my first love – the Middle East.

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AMBASSADOR FRANCISCA ASHITEYODUNTON Ghanaian Ambassador to Kenya

My Power is Inner Strength.

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I

have been in Kenya for one and a half years now and I find Kenya great, beautiful and incredibly awesome – only slightly different from what I am used to back in Ghana. I have come to love the weather and the people a lot.

Where I come from, I would say African women are on the rise.

Back home our President is all about women empowerment and affirmative action for women to make sure that they get their place in the society and be able to be part of the decisionmaking process thus ensuring that women's needs and voices are catered for.

Speaking on women empowerment, I believe that women empowerment is being given the freedom to choose and the freedom to decide what you want to do with your life.

And for women to be able to do that, they must be educated. Good education goes a long way to create foundation for this agenda. You know, when you educate a man you educate an individual, but when you educate a woman you educate the whole community. A woman needs education to have the confidence to move forward and make choices that are best for her and her society.

FACT BOX How would you describe your personal style?

My style is typical Ghanaian; vibrant, colourful and flamboyant.

If you were to live in any country in the world, which country would that be?

Ghana. There is no place like home.

Where I come from, I would say African women are on the rise. Back home our President is all about women empowerment and affirmative action for women to make sure that they get their place in the society and be able to be part of the decision-making process thus ensuring that women's needs and voices are catered for. I believe we are heading in the right direction despite the few challenges. For instance, getting women into politics was hard and brutal. Women were being brought down and hence women think they do not deserve it. The lingering question was why would they want to come out and be vilified for the mere fact that they were women? They have their children and families to focus on instead, and that was a disadvantage. We do have a long way to go but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

We should not give up. All we need is moral support from ourselves and then of course from the men.

I am currently trying to settle down and find my feet. However, once I have settled, I have actually identified a few orphanages that I would love to focus on. We are trying to get the government to join hands with us and come up with some legislation to protect our children.

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I

have been in Kenya for more than 3 years.

I first came as a special envoy then as an ambassador when my government gave me the opportunity to open the first embassy in Africa from Costa Africa which I set up in Kenya. What I have come to love about Kenya are the people and the environment. There are a number of similarities of Kenya to Costa Rica and this made my transition quite easy. It is also great to know this part of the world.

I am glad that women empowerment is recently turning into a conversation. I believe that women empowerment is a human right and we need to be clear about that. We need to empower women to take decision-making roles in the political arena and high corporate positions, and we need to mainstream these roles. This, however, can only be achieved by making the said jobs, good education and all primary conditions of life accessible to women. We need to give a space and mandate to have a better governance of women and involve them in decision making.

We also need to change the mindset of people on the role of women and whether or not they can perform. The most important thing is that we need to walk together as women with the support of government and other organizations. You cannot develop alone.

I think women in Africa are on the rise, however I think that there is a lot of work to be done to make it more visible what women are contributing to the continent to improve the condition of her people and make a better world. We are multi-taskers, we are allrounded, we have the capabilities to achieve our goals and targets both professionally and socio-economically.

AMBASSADOR MARTA JUAREZ RUIZ Costa Rican Ambassador to Kenya

My Power is Commitment

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I am glad that women empowerment is recently turning into a conversation.

I believe that women empowerment is a human right and we need to be clear about that. We need to empower women to take decisionmaking roles in the political arena and high corporate positions, and we need to mainstream these roles.

COUTURE | CELEBRITY FASHION

FACT BOX How would you describe your personal style?

Natural, elegant and colourful pieces with a touch of class.

If you were to live in any country in the world, which country would that be?

Home, Costa Rica

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AMBASSADOR LUISA FRAGOSO Head of Mission, Embassy of Protugal

My Power is Teamwork.

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FACT BOX How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is comfortable and simple. I also like exploring and experimenting.

If you were to live in any country in the world, which country would that be?

There will always be home. However, with the nature of my job, I am very open.

I believe that women in Africa are on the rise.

There is a long way to go but at the same time there is a long road that has been taken. It is now upon us to own our sense of belonging and make things happen.

I

have been in Kenya for the last two years.

I find the country very interesting – it is diverse, very open and easy to fit in. I love the city and its vibrance, and the culture within it is very beautiful. When coming to Kenya, I was made aware of the richness and literature of the country by a couple of people, and it did not disappoint. I feel very much at home here.

Speaking on women empowerment, women make up more than half of the population and it is high time we acknowledged that. We have our presence defined by our own being, but it has to be worked on. We need social empowerment and an answer to the question of how we interact with the other half of the society in an equal respectful manner. It is also high time we addressed questions related to basic rights, social rights and a dignifying life. This will not happen until we realise we have two sides to the coin. I think education is the corner stone from which to understand each other as men and women in society.

Female empowerment campaigns like the #HeforShe campaign by the UN, are also very important and it has to be understood that we are part of a joint effort to bring up a society that is just and open to everybody.

Integration is a combination of many aspects and many facets. This, however, can only be achieved with a good educational foundation and an understanding that each one of us has a position to be accepted and naturally integrated into the society. There is always a conversation about equal pay and equal rise of rank and as such, I think it is more about equity than equality.

I try to exercise my role in a way that acknowledges that I have performed and achieved the set goals. I hope eventually that this makes it part of this conversation that we are having of making young women feel at ease with their paths. I comfort myself that out there are women like myself who are more than ready to take up any task. I believe that women in Africa are on the rise. There is a long way to go but at the same time there is a long road that has been taken. It is now upon us to own our sense of belonging and make things happen.

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I

have been in Kenya for almost six months and I have come to love the country very much. Before getting this job, they actually asked me where I would love to work, I said Africa, Kenya to be specific. I have been in Africa a couple of times before, for safaris and work-related reasons, so I was really honoured to be posted here. I love the smile of the people, the culture and the colours.

Everyone I have met is charming, kind, and they make you feel at home.

Women empowerment to me means that women have the same rights to grab those opportunities as men and that starts with the education and the family. For instance, South America is a very traditional society and close to 20 years ago it was very rare for women to go to university. That has now changed - more than half of the university students are women. Things have generally changed around the world. Women now have the same opportunities as men. I have seen more women now taking professions in Law, Journalism, and politics among others.

I mean it is not a man’s world anymore. We are currently working with a lot of corporation programs - most of them being gender items that deal with women and we are especially working towards empowering young girls.

We believe children are the future – we are soon leaving these offices, so we need to open up space for them to come and seize the opportunities.

I think women in Africa are on the rise. I have seen it in my office – my secretaries are fantastic. They are good and bright and always working towards bettering themselves. I feel it is high time women know they have the same capacity and they are getting there.

AMBASSADOR ALEXANDRA GUERRA Chilean Ambassador to Kenya

My Power is Persistence.

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Women empowerment to me means that women have the same rights to grab those opportunities as men and that starts with the education and the family. For instance, South America is a very traditional society and close to 20 years ago it was very rare for women to go to university. That has now changed - more than half of the university students are women.

COUTURE | CELEBRITY FASHION

FACT BOX How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is traditional, conservative but classic.

If you were to live in any country in the world, which country would that be?

It is difficult to say. As a diplomat, I have been to several countries and each hold special memories. However, eventually I would love to retire in my country. It is special to me.

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Photography: Khalifa Louie | Styling: Ruth Odhiambo | Hair: Dgohnie of Dgohnie Hair Arts | Make-up: Rose Ntong’ondu | Shot on Location at Fairmont The Norfolk, Nairobi

“… join us, in an even more fabulous journey, as we celebrate and elevate our mother Africa through Fashion, Beauty and Culture.” #Couture60at6 I cannot believe, six years ago in August, we were launching the inaugural issue of Couture Africa Magazine. They all thought we were crazy. It’s too fashion-y, they said. It’s too niche, they said. It will never work, they said.

The market is not ready, they said. However, somehow, through hard work and His grace – over and above the trials of business – we have made it this far, and are more glamorous than ever!

So, these last words are to thank everyone who has been part of our journey. From the investors who believed in us on the onset, to all the writers, editors, stylists, make-up artistes and models who have passed through our glorious pages. Each issue comes with a new experience and is enrichened by every person who contributes their time and energy towards its production. To all the clients we have worked with in the past. It has been great, but the best is yet to come #Kaizen.

Our anniversary issue celebrates the epitome of female success by highlighting various female ambassadors to Kenya and talking to them about their lives and experiences in our wonderful country. We also discuss the future for women in Africa and beyond – in their opinion – and what a great conversation it is. We also have the lovely Lisa Christoffersen gracing our pages as our celebrity of the month, and our brand-new travel writer for what I anticipate shall be very exciting issues to come. We hope you enjoy reading this issue, as much as we enjoyed putting it together.

And in closing, we, at Couture Africa, thank you, the reader, for we would not have a magazine to publish without our strong subscriber base.

If you have not already subscribed, please do.

Or download the app. You shall thank me later.

If there is something you would like to see that is not already in here, please email me [olive@ coutureafricamag.com] I would love to hear from you.

Now that we are of primary school going age, I think it is fair to say that we are officially in the big leagues. And as we count down to 10.

We welcome you to join us, in an even more fabulous journey, as we celebrate and elevate our mother Africa through Fashion, Beauty and Culture.

O

.

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