02/06/2025
*This was Saturday night at the launch of the Zambian Association for Fashion Designers at Radisson Blu.*
I Christine Kapenda was honored to be among the 10 designers who showcased their collections that evening. My heart was full—thank You, Lord. Seeing my designs walk down the runway was such an emotional and rewarding moment. Fashion has always been my first love. I still remember calling my very first plastic sewing machine “Sweety”—a gift from my dear husband that fueled the passion I have today.
But beyond being a fashion designer, I consider myself a creative—some might even say a jack of all trades. Growing up, I picked up a range of skills to make a living—from being a hairdresser, to a makeup artist, and eventually studying Fashion & Design at Evelyn Hone College.
That wide range of interests really came in handy at the show. The brand that was meant to handle makeup for the runway models couldn’t make it, for reasons I’m still not sure of. I had just gone to do a fitting with my model when I found out. Without hesitation, I stepped in to help with the makeup—not just for my model, but for several others, including fellow designers.
At first, I declined—I was overwhelmed. It was already 14:00, the show was starting at 17:00, and there were more than 12 faces to do. I was with my son doing the fitting, and my husband was downstairs in the car with our 11-month-old daughter, who was crying and struggling to fall asleep.
I quietly sneaked out to the car as we prepared to head home when I received two phone calls asking if I could assist with makeup. I was still hesitant because of the time and the pressure—but my husband gently reminded me, “God will reward you.”
So we rushed home, put our daughter to sleep, I took a quick bath (no time to eat), and then dashed to East Park to collect makeup supplies from our store. I arrived back at Radisson around 16:15. Long story short: I did makeup for over 12 models and designers in just under 3 hours. Thankfully, the show was delayed a bit, which gave me some time.
I had made a beautiful suit for myself the day before—my plan was to look amazing for the launch, with a full face of makeup. But instead, I poured that energy into making sure everyone else looked stunning. It was exhausting and challenging, but so worth it.
It turned out to be an unforgettable night.
*Thank You, Lord Jesus and grateful for the many gifts and talents.
To my dear husband, thank you for baby sitting that night, thank you for guiding and directing the brand and seeing the vision for the brand. You’ve invested physically & financial and always holding things down all the time.*
