Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
FROM the stage to the State House! Zimbabwe’s Afro-fusion queen and fashion powerhouse Feli Nandi just added a presidential stamp to her brand by dressing Namibia’s first-ever female President, Her Excellency Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, during her diplomatic visit to Zimbabwe.
In a wonderful turn of events, the “Izwi” hit-maker (real name Felistus Chipendo) got the surprise of her career when the Namibian President personally requested a Vaskana VeMarokwe outfit from the award-winning designer.
“I received a call last night that the President of Namibia wanted a Vaskana VeMarokwe outfit. I could not believe it,” Feli Nandi told Zimpapers in an exclusive interview.
“I went and met her. What an honourable woman she is — so humble.”
The result? A regal blue stunner with soft pink and brown accents, detailed with a sash-style front and chevron elegance, a dress fit for diplomacy and drenched in African pride!
“She knew exactly what she wanted. We discussed it and brought it to life,” said Feli, still in awe of the moment.
“When she tried it on, I asked for a picture and told her, ‘This picture will change my life,’ and she laughed.”
This game-changing gig adds a presidential jewel to Feli’s already glittering crown. From styling artists like Holy Ten and Peter Moyo, to now dressing heads of state, Feli is making fashion history.
The multi-talented powerhouse is set to perform at the MTN Bushfire Festival in Eswatini later this month, rubbing shoulders with international heavyweights like Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Boom Shaka, and Steam Down from the UK.
As Africa gears up for Africa Day and Zimbabwe continues Culture Month, Feli Nandi’s triumph is a celebration of homegrown excellence, where music, fabric, and identity meet at the crossroads of influence.
