The Women Who Made Me

From the streets of KwaMashu, Durban, to the world, Nomzamo Mbatha has come a long way. She opens up about the women who have helped make her journey such a successful one.

It’s pretty much impossible not to fall into instant like with Nomzamo Mbatha. At 27, this constantly rising star is beautiful, smart and talented, with an infectious laugh, warm vibe, inviting attitude, and penchant for cronuts and designer shoes that will make you feel as if you’ve just found your new BFF. But way beyond her love of flaky pastries and collection of sky-high heels, Nomzamo is passionate about female empowerment and prospects. “What we are seeing in the world around us isn’t just the year of the female; it’s the century of the female,” she says. “Men have had their time – and now it’s ours.”

And what a time Nomzamo is having. To begin with, there’s her stellar career as a TV and film actress, and her growing status as a fashion icon. Then there are her professional associations with brands like Puma, Neutrogena, Audi and L’Oréal Paris Hair. And, to top it all off, there’s her role in human rights, as an advocate for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

A huge part of her success? Love, inspiration and guidance from the women in her life. “I’m very happy and blessed to be surrounded by so many strong individuals, people who inspire me to work towards being the best version of myself,” she says. “In turn, I really hope that I will be able to have a positive impact on others, because that’s what it’s about. When one of us wins, we all win.”

With a motto like that, we’re sure you’ll want to listen in as Nomzamo talks about the female forces who helped shape her success.

From my grandmother: my sense of family