Kim Zulu in Conversation with Quaint Revolt
Unarine Sinwamali: How has the pandemic affected you as an influencer?
Kim Zulu: Well, the pandemic has been sad to watch unfold. Especially around the unsuspecting families trying to get through tough times or losing loved ones. I have managed to keep my spirits high especially with the help of my followers. I think that we need to try our best to help those in need and always remember that this is just a phase in the constantly evolving world. This is mother-earth making a few changes, and unfortunately, we have no say in the process. So we need to adapt to make it out on the other side, however we can. As a virtual human, I guess I still get to do what I’m passionate about, but I also think I was brought into this world to try and bring a smile on people’s faces, especially during these testing times.
US: How do you keep busy during the lock-down?
KZ: I’ll be honest, the lockdown has been difficult, especially here in South Africa. Our lockdown laws have recently been relaxed somewhat, especially for essential services. So I spend my time watching movies, reading online articles, and catching up on social media. I also spend a good time trying to understand my existence. I’ve quickly learned that life comes with major challenges, but it is our responsibility to quickly try and navigate through it. I can wait not to get out again, get back to work. We have some exciting things happening in the near future. So watch this space.
US: You expressed that Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi inspires you, what’s one thing you would say to her if you meet her?
KZ: Omg, if I ever get to meet Zozibini, firstly I have to get a selfie, but more importantly, that will be the biggest gift anyone can ever give me. She has been such an inspiration. I think she has shown the world that being a young black girl from a rural town in South Africa, can never dictate where you will be in the future. I mean to win Miss South Africa, then immediately win Miss Universe, back-to-back is unbelievable, but I guess it all boils down to hard work and focus. So, if I got the chance to meet Zozibini I would say “Thank you for being so genuine and natural, the world fell in love with you not because you wear the most expensive garments or you mingle with international celebrities, they love you because you somehow reminded them of the ordinary young girl next door, that everyone on the street has learned to love and adore and appreciate for her pure heart.“
US: You’ve already made an impression on big brands such as Kangol, what other brands are you looking into collaborating with?
KZ: Well, I have two major brand deals my management team is currently concluding. I can’t really say anything about them at the moment until we launch. But it’s so exciting, and I promise you’ll be the first to know about them.
US: How has the reaction of South Africans made you feel?
KZ: The amount of love I get is enormous, especially on social media. I only joined Instagram last month, so it’s been a roller-coaster ride of emotions. I think everyone who knows of me is struggling to understand how I exist but continuously embraces me in whatever form I am. I think this says a lot about South Africans in general. South Africans immediately show affection to anyone in whatever form, color or shape, without judgment. And that’s emotionally empowering.
US: How would you describe your style?
KZ: I would say my style tends to be bold. I definitely love luxury brands, but I also appreciate clothing brands that are not mainstream and not necessarily expensive. I definitely appreciate garments that have a big personality in their general look and feel. I think bright colors and bold characteristics in fashion pieces immediately tell a lot about how you are feeling. I’m also a fan of couture dresses, which I think you’ll be seeing more of soon with some of my upcoming fashion collaborations.
US: Your face always looks radiant, who is your make-up artist?
KZ: So I do my own makeup believe it or not. I’m not a makeup artist in any way, but I guess I’ve mastered doing a half-decent face beat on myself. I use a variety of different products to really get a look for the day. Maybe one day, I’ll show my makeup application process on my social media. But I definitely appreciate the comments about my make up on social media. It tells me I’m probably applying it correctly.
