Fashion blooms at inaugural African Odyssey

(From the left) Khanyi Dhlomo (CEO Ndalo Media), June Ambrose (American Celebrity Stylist) and Anina Malherbe-Lan (Founder of VividLuxury) and Carol Bouwer (Founder and CEO, Carol Bouwer (CB) Productions.

“Through social media and one-on-one interactions with young South African women, I am often asked how I parlayed my initial success in TV into a business. The idea has been simmering for a while and after a meeting of the minds with June late last year I decided to create an event - a ‘movement’ where women can engage and learn from those who have done it before. I am excited to see this platform take shape,” said event owner, Carol Bouwer.

The panel discussion included Khanyi Dhlomo (CEO Ndalo Media), June Ambrose (American celebrity stylist), Elelwane Mpatlane (Edcon’s GM of Transformation) and Anina Malherbe-Lan (Founder of VividLuxury).

“It is important for us as woman to share our experiences and offer advice to young females who want to pursue their passions,” said Malherbe-Lan.

June Ambrose’s Style Icons gala dinner in the evening was attended by celebrities, including the first lady Bongekile Ngema-Zuma, UDM leader Bantu Holomisa, the MC for the evening, Bonnie Mbuli, Basetsana Kumalo, Rosette Ncwana, Twala Ngambi, Mayor Patricia de Lille and the host for the evening, Carol Bouwer. Quiteria & George launched its new fashion collection; award-winning singer and budding fashion designer, Nlanhla Nciza, from Sama-winning duo Mafikizolo, performed some of the duo’s hits, along with a first look at her newly launched fashion line.

The African Odyssey was brought to life by partnerships, which included UN Women, Edcon’s Orange Initiative, Unicef, Destiny magazine and the City of Cape Town.