Delivering Excellence

NOMZAMO MBATHA chats to Afika Jadezweni about her red-carpet style, why women need to support one another, and how she’ll never forget where she comes from

Trailblazing actress, humanitarian and multi-brand ambassador Nomzamo Mbatha was named on the Forbes Africa Under 30 Inspirational Leaders list this year. As a sought-after brand in her own right, she has sealed major deals with the likes of Neutrogena, Audi and Puma, and last year she became the first South African to co-host the BET Awards International. Widely admired for her magnetism and first-class work ethic, the 28-year-old TV wonder is blissfully indifferent to her awe-inspiring celebrity status, and is more concerned with delivering excellence repeatedly while always having fun. (Not bad for someone who finished second in the MTV Base VJ search only six years ago.)

‘You can’t forget who you are and where you come from,’ she says, ‘so with everything I do I always remember that girl and what she wished for. Times may change, but that girl doesn’t.’

ON THE RED CARPET

Do you still get nervous?

Oh, beyond! But I remind myself to relax and not to take it too seriously. I know this moment will never come again, and when you look back at it, you remember the good vibes. So it’s about fun. But nerves are always there.

What’s the best part of getting ready for a major red-carpet event?

I start the day off really well, have breakfast, have a mimosa, relax, have fun. It’s more about a state of mind and focusing on having a good time. Having an early start to my day is the best.

How do you and your stylist put together your red-carpet looks?