Online Reporter
Gift Moyo, [email protected]
From editorial shoots to red carpet events and major film productions, Zimbabwean hairstylist Kelvin Takudzwa is carving out a name for himself on the global stage. Based in South Africa, Takudzwa has worked with an impressive roster of personalities, including Khanyi Mbau, Enhle Mbali, Thuso Mbedu, Mai TT, Chlöe Bailey, Tyla, Diamond Platnumz, Ruger, Connie Ferguson, and Lynn Whitfield.
His skill and dedication have also attracted collaborations with luxury brands like L’Oréal Paris, Adidas, and Gucci, with his work featured in publications such as True Love Magazine and Glamour Magazine, as well as Netflix-connected productions.
For Takudzwa, hairstyling is more than aesthetics; it is identity, culture, and storytelling. Inspired by his late mother, a hairstylist, and mentors like Jawaraw, he has built a career rooted in creativity, precision, and innovation.
Originally from Rimuka, Kadoma, Takudzwa, whose talent recently shone at the South African Film and Television Awards, where he styled actress Thuso Mbedu, credits Zimbabwe for laying his foundation, while South Africa has offered the platform to expand his career and collaborate with high-profile clients on major productions.
Below is an interview with him.
Q: Please tell us more about yourself.
A: I’m originally from Rimuka, Kadoma. Growing up there shaped who I am and laid the foundation for my journey into hairstyling and creativity.
Q: Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in hairstyling?
A: My passion for hairstyling was inspired by many creative people around me, especially Jawaraw (a worldwide hairstyling specialist). Watching his creativity and confidence in expressing himself through style made me realise how powerful beauty and fashion can be. It showed me that hair is not just about looking good, but about identity, culture and storytelling. Also, growing up, I was fascinated by how transforming hair could completely change someone’s confidence and presence. Over time, that passion evolved into a career. Today, I’m grateful to express my creativity while celebrating Afro hair and working with incredible clients on different platforms, from editorial shoots to major events.
Q: Who taught you how to do hair, and where do you get your styles from?
A: My late mother was a hairstylist, and I grew up watching her work. Sitting beside her and observing every detail is where my passion for hair began. She taught me the fundamentals of hairstyling, which became the foundation of my craft. Over the years, I have developed my own style by drawing inspiration from trends, fashion, and the creative energy of the clients I work with. Every style I create is a blend of what she taught me and my own artistic vision, my way of honouring her legacy.
Q: Your relocation to South Africa, how did you manage to settle there and have people embrace your talent?
A: Moving to a new country and establishing myself as a hairstylist came with many challenges. One of the biggest challenges was building trust and credibility in a place where people didn’t yet know my work. I had to start from scratch, connecting with clients, learning local trends, and proving my skill and creativity every day. Adapting to different cultural expectations while staying true to my passion for Afro hair and my signature artistic approach was another challenge. At times, balancing my unique identity with clients’ needs in a new environment wasn’t easy.
Through patience, hard work, and consistently delivering high-quality work, I gradually built my reputation, attracted incredible clients, and eventually worked on both local and international platforms. These experiences taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying authentic to my craft.
Q: Who were the first notable clients you worked with in South Africa?
A: One of the first notable people I worked with in South Africa was influencer Nuzhar. I collaborated with her early in my journey, and she believed in my talent from the start. I still remember her telling me, “One day you will become a celebrity hairstylist”. Those words stayed with me and motivated me to keep pushing and refining my craft.
Looking at how far I have come and the opportunities I’ve had to work on major projects, it feels like that vision is slowly becoming a reality.
Q: Please list other notable people you have worked with.
A: Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work with several notable personalities and major brands in both South Africa and Zimbabwe. Some of the incredible talents I’ve collaborated with include Khanyi Mbau, Enhle Mbali, Thuso Mbedu, and Mai TT. I have also worked with Chlöe Bailey, Tyla, Diamond Platnumz, Ruger, Connie Ferguson and Lynn Whitfield. I’ve also collaborated with international and luxury brands such as L’Oréal Paris, Adidas and Gucci. In addition, my work has been featured in publications like True Love Magazine and Glamour Magazine, and I’ve had the opportunity to work on productions connected to Netflix. These collaborations have played an important role in shaping my career and allowing me to grow as a hairstylist while working with inspiring creatives across the industry.
Q: How did those opportunities come about?
A: It has been an incredible journey, and most of these opportunities came through a mix of networking, building a strong reputation, and consistently delivering high-quality work. Early in my career, I focused on forming genuine relationships in the industry and ensuring every client left with a look that exceeded their expectations. Word of mouth is powerful in this field; once a few high-profile clients trusted me with their hair, more opportunities naturally followed. I’ve also made it a point to stay innovative and bring creativity to every project, whether for editorial shoots, red carpet events, or personal styling. That dedication and passion opened doors and allowed me to collaborate with some of the country’s most talented actors.
Q: Of all those you have worked with, who stands out and why?
A: Of all the incredible people I’ve worked with, Tyla really stands out. Working with her was an amazing experience because of her energy, professionalism, and creativity. She brings so much passion to everything she does, making the collaboration both inspiring and enjoyable. Experiences like that remind me why I love what I do and motivate me to keep growing as a hairstylist.
Q: Do you have a signature style or technique that sets you apart?
A: Yes, my signature style celebrates the beauty and versatility of Afro hair, combining creativity with precision. I focus on texture, movement, and personalised looks, often incorporating unique braids, accessories, and sculptural elements. My goal is always to make each client feel confident, empowered, and unforgettable.
Q: How do you stay creative and innovative when styling high-profile clients?
A: Staying creative and innovative comes down to curiosity, research, and understanding each client’s personality and brand. I draw inspiration from fashion, music, art, and everyday life, while keeping up with international hairstyling trends. For high-profile clients, it’s important to balance their personal style with something fresh and unique. I experiment with textures, shapes, and techniques, always pushing beyond conventional standards.
Collaborating closely with clients and understanding their vision allows me to create looks that are both artistic and personalised, ensuring every hairstyle is memorable and impactful.
Q: How would you describe the difference between the hair and beauty industry in South Africa versus Zimbabwe?
A: Both industries are vibrant, but South Africa’s is larger and more commercially developed, with greater access to fashion, TV, film, big events, and international brands. Zimbabwe’s industry is smaller with fewer resources, but hairstylists there are incredibly skilled and innovative. For me, Zimbabwe shaped my foundation, while South Africa gave me the platform to grow and work with high-profile clients.
Q: What trends are you noticing in hairstyling right now?
A: Natural texture is trending, with curls, coils, and Afros celebrated. Soft, layered cuts, dynamic styles, and protective yet creative looks like bohemian braids and textured wigs are also popular. Overall, hairstyling is moving toward authenticity and personalised expression.
Q: Do you run a salon of your own?
A: I don’t run a salon yet, but I plan to open one in Harare later this year. The goal is to create a modern beauty hub offering top-quality hairstyling, beauty products, and support for upcoming stylists.
Q: What advice would you give Zimbabwean hairstylists aspiring to work with international clients?
A: Believe in your talent, stay committed, and keep improving your skills. Use social media to showcase your work, network with other creatives, and stay proud of your roots. Your culture and creativity are what make your work stand out globally.
Q: Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations in the works?
A: Yes! I’m excited about a feature in a major South African magazine and hairstyling work for films and short films. These opportunities let me explore hair as a storytelling tool and collaborate with talented creatives. It’s an exciting time in my career.
