Front Row with Ana Kabwe

All images courtesy of Ana Kabwe

Front Row with Ana Kabwe

A question which plagues the modern-day Fashion industry consistently today stems from our joint understanding of basic terms such as "styling" and creative direction" and moreso the careers which those disciplines encompass. Our next FRM guest—budding multidisciplinary creative Ana Kabwe—is a hyper-talented fashion phenom who joins us from the heart of New York City to decipher these exact professions by explaining her career career trajectory.

As a faith-driven Congolese raised in South Africa now residing in America—I can only imagine what type of raw creativity was stirred up within Ana simply through this unique cultural duplicity. Colourful, eccentric, flavourful, passionate. These are merely just some of the words which spring to mind when I think of Ana's work. A Design Academy of Fashion graduate who is now applying her trade overseas and excelling within various areas of the fashion industry—I find the ascension of Ana's career (meteoric even) to be inspiring and tale which may hopefully motivate any local stylists and/or creative directors to continue to dream big.

From more recent-work with reputable brands like Kibonen & Chuck Collins—and institutions such as LVMH and New York Fashion Week—Ana is showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon. In our mismatched time-zone virtual to-and-fro, she mentions:

"My inspiration comes from God—it’s not something I learned, but rather a gift I was given. I feel empowered to take risks, break boundaries, and redefine what styling can be."

So dive deep with us into the world of Ana Kabwe—where we speak about Africa being the source of inspiration within the global fashion industry, adapting to New York life post-Cape Town, overcoming challenges through God and her faith, and much much more.

Would you mind introducing yourself and including a short description of what you do?

AK: My name is Ana Kabwe—and I’m from Congo but grew up in Cape Town, South Africa. I’m a creative director and fashion stylist.

I'm genuinely into your overall look and style! What inspires your personal silhouettes and daily dress codes/uniforms?

AK: To be honest, I can’t afford my style just yet—so I mimic it with more affordable options. I remember walking to an event in a R10 Thrifted outfit and still stealing the show. My personal style is constantly evolving—but it’s always bold. One day, it might be minimalistic and sleek; the next, I might embrace bold layering or eccentric pieces. I love statement items and find inspiration in brands like Jacquemus, Loewe, Proenza Schouler, Avavav, Tibi, Ader Error, and Paloma Wool. These brands speak to me and align with the fearless, dynamic side of fashion. But as I grow in this industry—I know my style will continue to evolve. Right now, I often find myself in sweatpants because I’m in grind mode. However, By.regiina would be one of my style icons, so when I’m rich, these are the signs of what’s to come.

Could you tell us a bit more about your line of work as a creative director? What does the title mean, and what does it entail in terms of daily tasks?

AK: When I first started, I didn’t understand what being a creative director truly meant. I would create ideas from scratch—whether for a music video, a product shoot, or putting together a creative brief or deck. I’d gather my team and direct the project while also styling it. Three years ago, I was on set, and someone said, “Wow, the creative director did a great job,” and I had this realization: That’s me (my friends called me that before I even claimed it). I didn’t see it before but it was always in me. Since then, I’ve embraced the role fully—producing my first New York Fashion Week show, which was featured on CNN. The journey has been about discovering my true potential, and now, every day, I uncover more of what it means to be a creative director. Right now, I’m working on designing a summer collection for a brand, and every day presents new challenges. From marketing to styling to production, to creating lookbook and line sheets my tasks vary—and the more I dive in, the more I see how limitless my capabilities are. I’m excited to continue growing and take on even bigger opportunities.

Another important facet of your persona is your work as a stylist. I just really enjoy how maximalist your work is—brave combinations of layering and much more. Please tell the FRM audience more about your work as a stylist and what inspires your work.

AK: Thank you for recognizing that! As a stylist, my work is about embracing the impossible. It’s about creating looks that challenge what’s considered “normal.” I’ve always believed that if I have a vision, I can make it work—even if it seems impossible at first. I can take a sack of potatoes and make it look good if that’s what it takes. Editorial styling allows me to go above and beyond, and there’s no limit to what I can do. My inspiration comes from God—it’s not something I learned, but rather a gift I was given. I feel empowered to take risks, break boundaries, and redefine what styling can be. I also do personal styling for everyday people—doctors, chefs, moms—creating unique digital looks for them. It’s a rewarding experience because I get to craft a new character for them, help them embrace their identity, and feel empowered. It’s truly a different kind of magic.

You used to live in South Africa and recently relocated to the USA, correct? How has the experience been experiencing both creative landscapes?

AK: The transition from South Africa to the US has been a humbling and empowering experience. In Cape Town, I had the opportunity to assist incredible artists and work on my own personal projects, which impacted the clients. Just before I left, I received an offer that I believed would be the highlight of my career. Leaving it behind wasn’t easy, but I knew I had to start fresh. I moved to Saint Louis, where I met amazing people and did a magazine cover—but the creative scene didn’t align with my ambitions. That’s when I moved to New York, and it has been everything I hoped for. New York is just as competitive as Cape Town, but here, you don’t have to be a groupie to succeed. It’s about your individual talent—and I’m finding that’s what excites me the most. I’m building my name not just for myself, but I represent DRC Congo, I represent Africa, and the best is still yet to come.

For anyone who is maybe doubting whether African fashion is the future globally, what do you have to say in response? Do you believe African design talent has a promising future on the global fashion stage?

AK: There should be no doubt. Africa is a constant source of inspiration for the global fashion industry. Our art, culture, and fashion are at the heart of global creativity. While we may not always be credited, our influence is undeniable. We are shaping the future of fashion, and we’re doing it on our terms. From Nigeria to South Africa, we are leading the way. Fashion would not be what it is today without the brilliance that comes from the African continent. Our creativity has always been present—it’s just a matter of time before the world fully recognizes it. African fashion is the future. We are the past and the present.

What are some of the things you are looking forward to in 2025?

AK: I can’t speak for this year, but in general, I believe I will have unlocked a new level of empowerment and talent. Right now, I’m focused on reaching my greatest potential. I know I’m not there yet, and I don't think I have mastered my art ye—but every day is a step closer to what I can achieve. I’ve worked with the resources I have, but I know I’m capable of so much more. I’m looking forward to the opportunities ahead and the chance to show the world what I’m truly capable of. Five years from now, I know my career will be on an entirely different level, and I can’t wait for that conversation. Growth is coming, and I’m ready to embrace it with Psalms 23.