In a world where stories of resilience often get overshadowed by the noise of daily life, the Ndlovu Youth Choir rises above. Their journey from the rural village of Moutse in Limpopo, South Africa, to the world’s grandest stages is not just an inspiring story, but a celebration of breaking barriers and transforming lives.
What started as an after-school programme for orphaned and vulnerable children by the Ndlovu Care Group has evolved into an international sensation, captivating hearts worldwide. Since its beginnings in 2009, the Ndlovu Youth Choir has rewritten the possibilities for African youth, showing that even in the face of adversity, hope can not only survive but thrive.
Thando Hopa has been on my vision board for years. And, luckily for me and every reader soaking in these pages, she graciously agreed to carry our ‘Breaking Barriers’ issue. There’s no more fitting cover star for such a profound theme.
The cover photoshoot was planned to, dare I say it, perfection. Then, of course, life swooped in and reminded me how laughable that was, and I found myself hospitalised during the days she was set to shoot with our team. The shoot carried on without me and the images produced are stunning (find them in our Fashion section on pages 21).
But as I kept revisiting the gallery, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. I wanted not just to showcase Thando’s striking beauty and enviable fashion sense, but for these pages to act as a vessel for her story – a story that’s woven with lifelong threads of curiosity, bravery, creative energy and unrelenting commitment to self-exploration and collective expansion. Or, as Thando so eloquently puts it, “Media is a way for people to access perspectives that they usually would not have access to. As Africans we are so curious about ourselves, there is aliveness, this rising of consciousness.”
There are two kinds of journeys in life. With one, there’s a path to follow – perhaps one carved by generations past – but you have no idea of where you might end up.
The other journey is the opposite; you can see the destination clearly, but there’s just one problem: the road hasn’t been travelled or even built yet.
Bringing Engage! Summits to Africa was the latter kind of journey. Engage! is the premier luxury wedding and events industry summit of its kind – the original masterclass, if you will. For 16 years, it has brought its curated gatherings – complete with sought-after speakers and revered industry thought leaders – to the most awe-inspiring corners of the world.
Whether I was drooling over the dreamy images and videos they would post from the likes of Dubai and Dublin or, eventually, attending a summit myself as a guest, I always had one unshakable thought: I’m going to bring this to Zambia.
In the heart of Britain’s esteemed legal system, where tradition often casts a long shadow, a bright new figure has emerged, defying expectations and breaking through barriers that once seemed insurmountable.
Jessikah Inaba’s journey to becoming the UK’s first blind Black female barrister is a story of courage, resilience and an unyielding belief in justice. Her life symbolises the power of perseverance, a vivid illustration of how determination can illuminate even the darkest paths.
In the heart of Épernay, where the legacy of Moët & Chandon has flourished for centuries, the iconic Champagne house played host to a unique celebration for Champagne Day 2024. This year, Moët & Chandon invited seven of Africa’s most prominent creative talents for a cross-cultural exchange that highlighted the brand’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship, artistry, and heritage.
Lyra Aoko trying her hand at the Champagne pyramid
The star-studded guest list included South African designer and LVMH Prize winner Thebe Magugu, Nigerian textile artist Banke Kuku, Ghanaian fashion designer Aisha Ayensu, and others from across the continent, all representing a diverse range of disciplines, from fashion to photography. These seven artisans were invited to experience Moët & Chandon’s deep-rooted savoir-faire, taking inspiration from the centuries-old process that defines the world-renowned Champagne.
Aisha Ayensu exploring the cellars
For Mahine Sef, a Cameroonian music producer and photographer, the visit to Moët & Chandon was nothing short of magical. “My first impression of Épernay was one of timeless elegance,” he remarked. “The estate felt like a place where tradition and innovation harmonise beautifully.” This theme of merging old and new was a key thread throughout the visit, as the artisans explored the historic cellars and discussed the parallels between their own crafts and the meticulous art of Champagne making.
Thebe Magugu, who has risen to global prominence in fashion, was equally in awe of the legacy of Moët & Chandon. “It blows my mind that they have managed to preserve a brand since 1743, and for it to still be even more relevant in 2024,” he said, reflecting on how craftsmanship and innovation can stand the test of time.
Banke Kuku, the creative genius behind her eponymous Nigerian boutique, was moved by the serene beauty of the Moët & Chandon estate. “It’s like the world slowed down once I stepped into the estate,” she shared. For her, the experience was both reflective and inspiring, emphasising the importance of asking ‘why’ throughout the creative process.
The cultural exchange between African and French artisanship was a key focus, with the trip offering an opportunity to explore how these two rich traditions can influence and inspire one another. As Moroccan jewellery designer Youssra Nichane observed, “The Memories of Tomorrow exhibition, showcasing artisan embroidery, was a true reflection of where craftsmanship meets history.” The exhibition resonated deeply with her, inspiring her to create new designs that blend Moroccan heritage with Moët & Chandon’s artistry.
Beyond the Champagne and the cellars, this trip was about much more than luxury. It was about the shared values of tradition, community, and excellence—values that transcend borders and bring artisans together. As Tanzanian designer Mtani Nyamakababi put it, “Their strategy has been carefully crafted over centuries to maintain their status as one of the world’s most prestigious Champagne brands. This inspired me to be more committed to excellence in my craft.”
As Champagne Day approaches, Moët & Chandon continues to showcase the powerful connections between African creativity and French tradition, celebrating the endless possibilities that arise when cultures come together. This event was not just a tribute to Champagne, but to the artisans who continue to break boundaries, craft by craft, one toast at a time.
7 Artisans at the Orangerie lawns
Lyra Aoko Thebe Magugu and Youssra Nichane connecting at the Chateau de Saran
Banke Kuku and Youssra Nichane enjoying a glass of Moet Brut Imperial
art’otel London Battersea is delighted to announce the arrival of its latest artist-in-residence, Emmanuel Unaji, who will be showcasing his distinctive works until Tuesday, 12th November.
Emmanuel Unaji, a British-born Nigerian multidisciplinary artist, has made his mark not only in the world of fine art but also in the realms of design and fashion. As co-founder of the award-winning design company, Unaji & Co, his background in fashion design and a BA (Hons) in Fine Art from Kingston University (2021) have shaped his creative trajectory, making him a compelling figure in the contemporary art scene.
Unaji’s artistic approach is bold and unconventional. His process of mechanically deconstructing icons aims to challenge and reverse-engineer the unconscious bias that often pervades traditional portraiture. By combining collage, drawing, and painting, his signature style is both striking and thought-provoking, capturing the attention of art lovers and critics alike.
His works have been widely recognised across the creative industries and exhibited at renowned institutions such as Le Carreau du Temple Paris, The Royal Exchange, Tate Britain, Adidas Flagship Store, London Fashion Week, and The Freemasons Hall. Unaji has been hailed as a “new talent to watch” by influential brands and publications including Forbes, British GQ, and Adidas, cementing his place as an artist exploring the socio-economic movement of the African body. His art sits at the intersection of fashion, luxury, street culture, and fine art, a space he continues to sculpt with precision and insight.
Visitors are invited to explore Emmanuel’s work at the art’beat Studio at art’otel London Battersea, where they can observe the creative process in action and engage directly with the artist. The open studio offers a rare opportunity for art enthusiasts and the general public alike to witness the magic behind the canvas.
Dates for upcoming workshops with Emmanuel Unaji will be announced soon, providing further chances to learn more about his innovative practice.
Constance Lemuria, located on Praslin Island in the Seychelles, offers a balance of luxury and natural beauty. Surrounded by tropical landscapes and beaches, this five-star resort features a range of activities, including the only 18-hole golf course in the Seychelles and access to vibrant marine life at nearby diving sites. Guests visiting between October and February can even observe turtles nesting on the resort’s beaches.
For families, the Constance Kids Club provides engaging activities such as island excursions and cooking classes. Adults can unwind at the resort’s spa or relax by the beachside pools, designed to complement the natural surroundings.
Dining is a key highlight, with four restaurants catering to various tastes. Legend Restaurant offers extensive buffet choices, while Diva focuses on contemporary dishes. Seafood lovers will enjoy Creole-style dishes at The Nest, which overlooks the ocean. The resort also features several bars with scenic settings, perfect for evening drinks.
Accommodation options include junior and senior suites, along with private villas for those seeking more space and privacy. Each room is thoughtfully designed with modern amenities such as air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and 24-hour room service, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Constance Lemuria combines elegant facilities with its stunning location, making it ideal for travellers seeking relaxation, family-friendly activities, or a bit of both.
Ardmore, a South African brand with a deep-rooted legacy in collectible art, has recently expanded its creative horizons with the launch of an exquisite collection of pure silk scarves, twills, and pocket squares. This new venture marks Ardmore’s first step into the fashion world, drawing upon the studio’s artistic heritage and the rich cultural tapestry of Africa to create wearable works of art. Founded in a small studio on a farm in KwaZulu-Natal, Ardmore has grown into a multifaceted design brand that now spans textiles, homeware, and, most recently, fashion. Known for its vibrant expression of African culture, Ardmore’s creations have made their way into homes and hearts across the globe. The introduction of these luxurious silk scarves is a testament to the brand’s evolution and commitment to craftsmanship.
The scarves, crafted for those who appreciate the fusion of art and fashion, feature intricate designs that tell uniquely African stories. The collection is the result of a collaboration between Catherine Berning, who spearheaded the design, and Sydney Nyabeze, whose illustrations bring the narratives to life. The scarves showcase African wildlife, indigenous flora, and folklore in rich, colourful patterns that are as timeless as they are contemporary.
Ardmore’s journey into fashion is deeply personal, tracing back to its founder, Féé Halsted. Forty years ago, Halsted was inspired by a vibrant jungle print silk scarf she purchased in London, igniting a vision that has now come full circle. Earlier this year, Ardmore released its first scarf collection, the Bonnie Ntshalintshali Collection, named in honour of Ardmore’s founding ceramic artist. Bonnie Ntshalintshali’s legacy of imaginative and lyrical storytelling is celebrated in these scarves, with designs that feature playful depictions of Jonah and the Whale, along with heavenly angels, doves, and whimsical butterflies. The collection is a burst of optimism, showcasing bold primary colours and rich floral motifs that reflect Bonnie’s artistic spirit.
The Bonnie Ntshalintshali Collection is just the beginning. Ardmore has also unveiled the Sabie Kings collection, inspired by the majestic King Cheetah. This design draws from the lush landscapes of Zimbabwe, where the rare Sabie King Cheetah was first spotted in 1926. The collection features two regal cheetahs entwined, set against a backdrop of aloes and impala lilies in earthy tones and sea-foam greens, capturing the essence of safari elegance.
Complementing the Sabie Kings collection is the Protea Plains line, which introduces a dynamic and whimsical design featuring a mythical cat chasing a zebra through fields of proteas. This lively piece bursts with movement and vibrant colours, further showcasing Ardmore’s ability to blend tradition with contemporary design. The most recent addition to the Protea Plains collection is the Safari Wrap, a luxurious wool and modal wrap that offers versatility and lightweight comfort, perfect for any season.
In addition to the large silk scarves, Ardmore’s collection includes Safari Silk Twills, skinny scarves that add a sophisticated touch to any wardrobe. These versatile pieces can be styled in multiple ways—around the neck, wrist, hair, or accessories—bringing a bold pop of colour to any outfit.
All of Ardmore’s scarves and wraps are designed in South Africa and printed in Italy on 100% pure silk with hand-rolled hems, ensuring the highest quality and attention to detail. As Ardmore continues to expand its fashion line, further collections and limited editions are planned for release throughout the year, promising to bring even more of Africa’s rich cultural stories into the world of fashion.
