South African actress and global thought leader, Nomzamo Mbatha, captivated both dignitaries and fashion enthusiasts with her stunning presence on the runway for Khosi Nkosi at the iconic Villa Erba in Lake Como, Italy. The event, a collaboration with African Bank to mark the bank’s 50th Anniversary, was held on Saturday evening as part of the Milan Fashion Week Studio, an important auxiliary presentation of the renowned Milan Fashion Week (MFW).
The show was set against the scenic backdrop of Villa Erba, located at Largo Luchino Visconti in Cernobbio, a picturesque area near Lake Como. The runway dazzled with Khosi Nkosi’s latest collection, which featured vibrant Ankara prints in beautiful shades of blue and green, along with West African-inspired knitwear. The collection was a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship that Khosi Nkosi has become known for, blending African heritage with contemporary style.
In attendance were several notable figures, including Khosi Nkosi’s founders, Thabo and Khosi Mukwevho. A team of 10 from African Bank, along with distinguished diplomats like the deputy honorary consulate-general of Milan representing South Africa and the UK High Commissioner, also graced the event.
“It’s been amazing to see all the fashion on the streets of Milan during Fashion Week – and then to go to Lake Como, where the show is being held, has been so relaxing and incredible, and I am so thankful to African Bank,” Mbatha told News24.
Mbatha, who hails from KwaMashu, is not just a talented actress but also a dedicated advocate for various global causes. As an ambassador for African Bank, she uses her platform to raise awareness about important social issues. She is also a UNHCR and Global Goodwill Ambassador, as well as a global ambassador for The Earthshot Prize, a prestigious environmental initiative. Furthermore, Mbatha is the founder of the Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation, an organization focused on advocating for education and social empowerment.
Recently, Mbatha was part of the TIME Women of the Year Leadership Forum, held in Los Angeles. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “The TIME Women of the Year was such a ‘pinch me’ moment,” and added that being part of such a significant event was an inspiring milestone in her career. At the forum, she engaged in thought-provoking discussions, sharing her perspectives on leadership, empowerment, and social change.
“Being a part of that really specific panel was just awe-inspiring,” she said. “I continue to really just build in my journey and stand for what I believe in.”
The runway show was more than just a celebration of fashion; it was a demonstration of African pride and heritage. Khosi Nkosi co-founder, Khosi Mukwevho, explained the significance of the event. “We have been invited by Fashion Week Studio, which selected Villa Erba in Lake Como as the venue,” she said. “It’s an iconic venue over and above it being a scenic one – and we’re proud to fly the South African flag high to show that we, too, are worthy of participating alongside other nations on a global stage.”
She further elaborated on the inspiration behind the collection. “We took great care to honour the vision of African Bank CEO, Mr. Kennedy Bungane, ensuring that the collection reflected African Bank’s signature colours while capturing the excitement and significance of this collaboration.” The collection, dubbed “The Legacy,” draws inspiration from African Bank’s rich history and its origins in the 1960s, a time of hardship for people of color. The garments are not just pieces of clothing but symbols of resilience, dignity, and bold self-expression, celebrating the power of reclaiming history in a modern and audacious way.
