Author page: Lihle Ndlovu

Banke Kuku and the Poetics of Print

There are designers who dress the body, and then there are designers who build entire visual worlds. Banke Kuku belongs firmly to the latter. Her work does not simply exist on fabric. It unfolds, it lingers, it speaks in colour and rhythm, carrying with it the memory of cities, cultures, and lived-in duality. Born in Lagos and shaped between Nigeria and the United Kingdom from a young age, her perspective is one of layered identity, where heritage and modernity are not in conflict but in continuous dialogue.

 

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Gen Z: The New Blueprint – Bradley Nkoana

At just 21 years old, Bradley Nkoana is already sprinting into South African sporting history. The Mabopane-born athlete has emerged as one of the country’s brightest track stars, earning international recognition through his blistering speed, record-breaking performances, and contributions to South Africa’s success on the global stage.

 

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Creme of Nature, Nomzamo Mbatha and Her Besties Invite You into the House of Unstoppable

One Lucky Bestie Could Become the Newest Member of the Creme of Nature Squad

Creme of Nature is inviting women who are passionate about their hair, self-expression, and confidence to step inside the House of Unstoppable, an immersive pop-up experience taking place on 20 June 2026, hosted by brand ambassador Nomzamo Mbatha and the beloved Creme of Nature Squad.

 

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Kiehl’s and Gold’s Gym Are Redefining Wellness Through Skincare and Community

What happens when a cult skincare brand joins forces with one of the world’s most recognisable fitness communities? A wellness experience that goes beyond cleansers and treadmills. Kiehl’s South Africa and Gold’s Gym are encouraging consumers to view skincare as part of a broader self-care journey, one that includes movement, recovery and community. To celebrate the partnership, the brands recently hosted an immersive event where guests could train, learn about their skin and connect with fellow wellness enthusiasts.

 

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My Favourite Things: Mikhalé Jones

Mikhalé Jones has always been a storyteller. Whether through music, movement, or the quiet moments she captures away from the spotlight, her world is built on emotion, memory, and creative expression. The singer, songwriter, and dancer first captured the attention of South African audiences through her captivating covers and later as the winner of the first season of MTN Pulse Virals. Since then, she has evolved into one of the country’s most exciting contemporary soul artists, blending R&B, neo-soul, jazz, and hip-hop into a sound that is uniquely her own.

 

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Painted By Esther Brings Her Signature Beauty Magic to Johannesburg with NYX Professional Makeup

Few makeup artists have captured the beauty world’s attention quite like Ngozi Esther Edeme, better known as Painted By Esther. Known for her vibrant use of colour, signature blush placements and transformative celebrity looks, the British-Nigerian artist has become one of the most sought-after names in beauty. Through a two-day masterclass hosted by NYX Professional Makeup in Johannesburg, South African beauty lovers were given a rare opportunity to learn directly from the artist behind some of Tyla’s most memorable beauty moments, as well as looks worn by Naomi Campbell, Viola Davis and Doechii.

 

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Lafalaise Dion and the Architecture of African Memory

In the hands of Lafalaise Dion, the humble cowrie shell transcends ornamentation and becomes something altogether more profound. It becomes memory, mythology, ancestry, and art. Through her eponymous label, the Abidjan-based designer, artist, performer, and former journalist has carved out a singular visual language that sits at the intersection of fashion, spirituality, and cultural preservation. Her creations do not merely adorn the body. They tell stories, invoke histories, and honour a lineage that stretches far beyond the present moment.

 

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Gen Z: The New Blueprint – Titus Mokou

Few creators have captured the humour, resilience, and everyday realities of South African youth quite like Titus Mokou. Known to millions as his beloved alter ego, Mologadi, the Limpopo-born digital creator has built a loyal audience through relatable storytelling, sharp wit, and an uncanny ability to turn ordinary moments into cultural touchpoints.

 

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Painted by Esther Is Changing Beauty One Blush Look at a Time

If you’ve spent any time on beauty TikTok, Instagram, or your favourite magazine’s beauty pages over the past few years, chances are you’ve seen the influence of Painted by Esther. As the celebrated makeup artist prepares to bring her expertise to South Africa for the NYX Cosmetics Masterclass, beauty lovers have every reason to be excited. After all, this is the woman who helped transform blush from a subtle accent into one of the most defining beauty statements of the decade.

 

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My Favourite Things: Esihle Siwela

Esihle Siwela is the embodiment of modern refinement. A singer, songwriter, and multidisciplinary creative, he moves through the worlds of music, fashion, luxury, and design with effortless intention. Whether he’s crafting a song, curating a visual concept, or exploring a new destination, his approach is guided by a deep appreciation for beauty, storytelling, and elevated experiences.

 

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