Author page: Sheila Afari

One of a woman’s greatest strengths is her ability to command a room. A true superpower? Doing so without saying a word. I can’t recall the exact moment I first met Lisa Madibe, however, I’ll never forget the feeling she brings into every space she enters. Lisa Madibe is a woman who draws attention effortlessly; not just for her striking presence, but for the quiet power and purpose she carries with her. Today, she stands as the founder of Hairlo, a proudly South African bespoke wigs and extensions brand rooted in heritage, luxury, and innovation. Through Hairlo, Lisa Madibe is redefining what beauty means for a new generation of Black women.

In Conversation with Sheila Afari

There are some people who seem almost mythical in presence, their legacy larger than life, yet their humanity grounding them in the most profound way. Dr Esther Mahlangu is one such figure. When I meet her—albeit virtually—she is petite in stature, her smile warm and inviting, but there is a quiet power that emanates from her even in her silence. Her intricate Ndebele-inspired works have graced everything from galleries in Miami and Switzerland to the body of a BMW, but what truly resonates is her ability to carry the weight of her cultural heritage with grace, ensuring it is not only preserved but celebrated globally.