Stylist and creative director Panashe Ndhlovu on the women who inspired her journey

Panashe Ndhlovu is a fashion stylist and creative director with a distinctly whimsical approach—making styling feel playful,expressive and full of life. A graduate of The Design Academy of Fashion, she’s known for her bold use ofcolour, instinctive eye and ability to turn fashion into personal, joyful storytelling.

Having styled prominent names both locally and internationally, her workreflects a new wave of creatives reshaping fashion into something more expressive, accessible and rooted in identity. Behind it all is a strong network of women who have shaped her values, confidence and sense of self.

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My mom is my built-in best friend and the person who has shaped my life the most - the foundation of everything I am and everything I’m becoming. As an immigrant who had me at a very young age, she built a life for us from the ground up, driven by determination, resilience,and an unshakable faith in a better future. Moving to a completely new country, she created opportunities for me that she never had for herself. Beyond everything she has done, she is incredibly funny, intelligent, self-assuredand effortlessly cool in a way that has always inspired me. She’s taught me to move forward even when I’m afraid and to trust myself in the face of the unknown. Because of her sacrifices, I’ve been given the freedom to live fully, to express myself without limits, and to pursue creativity as a career. Everything I am stands on the foundation she built, and for that, I carry her with me in every step.

Aunt Agnes and Miriam

Like my mother, my aunties are some of the most hardworking women I know, and they’ve shaped my understanding of what it means to be a woman - to bekind, caring, intelligent, independent,and witty. Through them, I’ve learned that while I’m strong enough to stand on my own, I’ll always have a solid support system behind me, ready to show up and carry me when I need it - and to be that for others as well. They’ve never been overly fashion-focused, but their authenticity has influenced me in a different way.Their care free confidence has given me the freedom to be fully myself, to express who I am without hesitation, and to move through the world with the same quiet assurance they embody.

Sisi Shami

Shamiso, my eldest cousin on my mom’sside, was a defining presence in my childhood. Along with my other cousins,we were raised by our grandmother fora significant part of our early years, and during that time I watched her closely ass he stepped into her teenage life while I was still in primary school. I remember her sneaking out wearing makeup to school when she wasn’t allowed to, getting dressed up, and experiencing all the small milestones that felt so grown up and exciting to me. She was the first person who introduced me to the world of beauty and self-expression. The way she carried herself, always put together,confident, and a little rebellious, made everything feel glamorous and inspiring,and I wanted to be just like her. That spirit of independence and boldness has stayed with me, shaping me into someone who is unapologetically herself and more in control of her own path.

Carley, Qaqamba and Xola Barley’s Closet Girls

Carley, Qaqamba and Xola. Image: Supplied

I met Carley, Qaqamba, and Xola in my first year out of fashion school when I started a part-time job at Barley’s Closet. Like many graduates, I felt lost and uncertain about how I would break into the fashion industry as a stylist. Working alongside them at the thrift store, they quickly became more than colleagues, stepping into my life as big sisters who offered guidance, honesty,and perspective exactly when I needed it. They helped me navigate life beyond school and the realities of the industry with more confidence, always showing up with advice and support. What meant the most to me was how they embraced me fully, welcoming me as one of their own and creating a sense of belonging during a time of uncertainty. I’ll always carry the impact they’ve had on my journey.

Jackie Herbert

Jackie Herbert, my boyfriend’s mom, has been part of my life for the past seven years and has played a meaningful role in shaping how I experience the world. Her love for travel, restaurants,and wine has naturally influenced me,introducing me to new places and ways of thinking. Through her, I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for beautiful restaurants, gourmet food, fine wines,and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. What stands out most is her ability to turn ordinary moments into something special and worth celebrating,whether it’s a simple meal, a glass of wine,or small milestones. She’s taught me that there’s so much more to life in slowing down and being present, embodying an effortless elegance and curiosity about life that has inspired me to be more open and adventurous.