Actress, humanitarian, and global star, Nomzamo Mbatha is rewriting the rules, and this time, she’s doing it strand by strand. As Creme of Nature’s first-ever South African ambassador, Nomzamo steps into a role that’s as much about representation as it is about real haircare.
For Nomzamo Mbatha, hair is not just an accessory. It’s a reflection of her evolution — both personal and political. We caught up with her ahead of the launch, and in our exclusive sit down, she unpacks the deep meaning behind this milestone, shares her favourite go-to products, and self-care rituals. Speaking candidly about the power of owning your narrative, she opens up about what hair means to her journey of self-expression, and why creating a healthy relationship with your hair is the most radical form of self-love.
Glamour: So how does it feel to be named as the very first local ambassador for Creme of Nature?
Nomzamo: It's an honour. To represent a brand that speaks to who we are — to the spectrum of our radiance, our heritage, our identity, and our relationship with our hair — it’s powerful. I’d like to think that who I am represents different facets of womanhood, especially the African woman today.
Glamour: You're passionate about representation. How does this campaign reflect that for you?
Nomzamo: Absolutely! I’ve always said: I’m a woman who owns her narrative, who writes her own script, and moves to the beat of her own drum. If my presence allows another woman to give herself that same permission, then I’ve done my job by simply being myself.
Glamour: What does this partnership mean to you personally?
Nomzamo: It means being in conversation with women — not just selling to them. This brand sees our textured hair in all its beauty and complexity. Whether it's the hair growing from our scalp or the hair we choose as part of our identity — wigs, protective styles, shrinkage moments — Creme of Nature has us covered.
Glamour: Humidity is real. Can the range handle the Durban fro-shrinkage situation?
Nomzamo: [Laughs] Absolutely! The holding spray is a must. It keeps your curls defined even with shrinkage. The leave-in conditioner? A game-changer. Add a little mousse, and your curls stay poppin’, no matter where you are.
Glamour: Creme of Nature champions natural beauty. How does this align with your own beauty philosophy?
Nomzamo: I’m not afraid to wear my natural hair — on screen or off. Whether I’m in glam or running errands, I know I’m taking care of my hair and skin. Routine is everything. Once you build one, you start truly understanding your hair. And that’s self-love.
Glamour: Let’s talk wash days. What’s your approach?
Nomzamo: I’m team wash twice a month. I switch it up a lot, so I’ve found a routine that works. I love mixing oil treatments into a mask, applying it section by section, then popping on a shower cap. It’s like a love letter to your scalp.
Glamour: You mentioned treatment earlier — how has that changed over time for you? Nomzamo: Back in the day, treatment was a luxury. It wasn’t accessible. Now, I understand how essential it is. Accessibility and affordability matter — because building a haircare routine shouldn’t feel out of reach.
Glamour: How has your hair played a role in your self-expression?
Nomzamo: Hair is one of my favourite accessories — along with skin. Whether it’s twisting, snatching, or creating bold Met Gala moments, it’s how I ask, “Who am I today?” Hair is political. It’s personal. It’s storytelling.
Glamour: How empowering is it to do your own hair, especially given our history?
Nomzamo: Growing up, your hair didn’t belong to you — it belonged to your mom or your aunt or your salon. Reclaiming that relationship later in life? It’s healing. And now I protect that bond fiercely. No more suffering for beauty.
Glamour: What message do you hope this campaign sends to women across the continent? Nomzamo: Own your narrative. Don’t wait to be told who you are. There’s so much power in individuality — and it’s a beautiful time to be a woman, especially a Black woman. Let’s celebrate that.
Glamour: Your beauty routine must be stacked. What’s your fave product from the range? Nomzamo: Oh, the intensive conditioning treatment — your hair will feel like a pillow. Then there’s the dual-action leave-in conditioner. And the edge control? GOATED. The mousse, too. Like, what were we doing before mousse?
Glamour: You’ve worn many hats — from humanitarian to film star. How do you stay confident?
Nomzamo: I stay rooted in my “why.” I choose partnerships and projects that align with who I am. And I take rest — even two days makes a difference. Rest helps me stay connected to my purpose.
Glamour: So, what’s next?
Nomzamo: Some exciting projects in film — keep it locked.
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