South African born actress and human rights activist, Nomzamo Mbatha, has launched her debut PUMA collection: Shandu, an ode to the tribe into which she was born in KwaMashu; her grandmother Mildred; and every girl who never thought her life would matter.
The collection of footwear, apparel and accessories for women was designed around Nomzamo’s lifestyle of intense travel, activism and the African summer.
“Like me, this collection is African through and through,” says Nomzamo. “It is an ode to the very family and clan that I come from.”
The first Shandu drop in March features soft, sorbet colourways that are sure to make a strong statement. Items include a Bomber Jacket (R2 499) and Jumpsuit (R2 299), Nomzamo’s favourite two pieces, as well as the Starlet Sandal (R449), First Flip (R229), Top (R649), Cropped Tees (R999), Shorts (R899) and Headband (R599).
When designing this collection, Nomzamo aimed to create beautiful, comfortable pieces that women love.
She says: “I want women to feel empowered and sexy. This collection is a defining moment of my career. When you put these pieces on, wear them with pride because for the first time PUMA, as a global sports brand, has collaborated with a young black woman from Africa to create a collection.”
Nomzamo is also taking part in PUMA’s new She Moves Us campaign, led by global pop superstar Dua Lipa, which calls on women to inspire one another and take control of and change the global narrative.
Shandu will be available on PUMA.com and at PUMA stores, Sportscene, X-Trend, Superbalist, Street Cred, Madaiza and HYPE from 12 March 2021.