African Expression at MXS Kulture Festival 2026: Interview With Nomzamo Mbatha

African Expression at MXS Kulture Festival 2026: Interview With Nomzamo Mbatha. Few voices carry the weight of cultural pride and global influence quite like Nomzamo Mbatha. As a brand ambassador for Crème of Nature and co-host of the MXS Kulture Festival 2026, she stands at the intersection of beauty, identity, and storytelling. In this conversation, she reflects on what it means to represent African authenticity on a global stage, from celebrating textured hair to redefining beauty standards for a new generation. With the festival’s theme “Rooted in Radiance” setting the tone, Nomzamo shares personal insights on confidence, cultural expression, and why African narratives deserve to take up space in every corner of the world. Read all about it below!

As the co-host at the MXS Kulture Festival 2026, what did this partnership personally mean to you in the context of African identity and representation at the Crème of Nature ambassador.

I had such a wonderful time hosting the MXS Fest, the rain threatened to be an issue but the
spirit of the people in attendance outshined everything. The partnership felt very organic, Crème
of Nature prides itself on being a brand that celebrates authenticity, African radiance, African
pride and the call to action for people to own their identity in the most authentic way. Maxhosa is
a proudly South African brand that has really solidified itself in being authentically African and
celebrates culture and African pride.

The theme “Rooted in Radiance” is powerful—how do you interpret this message in your own journey as a modern African woman?

It’s about owning, loving and celebrating the woman I see in the mirror. Being authentically myself and moving with confidence in that.

Hair was positioned as an integral part of storytelling on the runway—how important is hair in expressing cultural identity, in your view?

it’s very important. It’s the very first accessory that you are taught to own and love from early childhood. As we grow, we then expand that conversation into the expression of ourselves that navigates the world.

Working alongside a brand that celebrates textured hair, how has your own relationship with your natural hair evolved over time?

I have always had a very close relationship with my hair. I play with different styles, textures and ways I can manipulate it. My skin and my hair are my two favorite accessories. Crème of Nature has given me an even deeper appreciation for my hair journey.

The festival highlighted a strong fusion of heritage and high fashion—why is it important for African culture to take up space in global fashion conversations?

Global means world… Africa is a part of that world… Africa is global.

You’ve long been an advocate for African storytelling—how does this collaboration reflect the broader narrative you want to see for the continent?

My hope is that it continues to shine an even brighter light on the excellence of what African creatives have to offer.

How do partnerships like this shift perceptions of beauty standards, particularly for young African women?

They play a pivotal role in the shifting of perceptions and most importantly the reshaping
of the African narrative. That we are bold, creative, confident and radiant.