Mahali hits the Forbes list

AWARD-WINNING stylist and fashion guru Reinhard Mahali has made the Forbes Africa 30 under 30 list, which recognises outstanding personalities in the business, arts and fashion industries on the continent.

With the 2021 and the 7th annual edition Forbes celebrated Africa’s young innovators and risk takers in a pandemic year.

Mahali who graced the Forbes cover with South African multi-award winning content creator Mihlali Ndamase, said he has waited his whole life for this reality and believes it will open many doors for him.

The glamorous style icon said it was humbling and surreal to be have been recognised on such a major platform such as Forbes Africa 30 Under 30.

In his view this is a very major accomplishment, however it did not come by chance but it is the fruits of five years of hard work and dedication nurtured with a passion.

“My life has been filled with personal tragedy like everyone else’s, yet I have transformed every challenge to serve my rise and work. I have, however realised that my contribution to the fashion industry is fuelled by the greater impulse to bring beauty and dignity to the marginalised and silenced,” said Mahali.

He added that this is part of his search for self-determination and to be respected as a human being with equal rights.

“The words black and queer are met with distrust, disdain and assault. The influence of our cruel history and vast fundamentalism, be it political, religious or economic has reduced the access to justice and inclusion for people who identify outside the standard societal sexual orientation and preference.

“In a time where they want to make us invisible, I am on a cover of Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 – black, proud and queer representing Namibia.”