Nthabiseng Faith's Journey of Being A Model And The Creative Director of Kwa Jewelry
Nthabiseng Faith is a 23-year-old born and raised in Gaborone, She is the creative director of Kwa Jewelry, A jewellery brand founded by artist and arts educator LegakwanaLeo Makgekgenene.
She is also a model signed to Kult Models. Nthabiseng has worked with Glotto and LWE over the last three years, curates her own photoshoots, and collaborates with other creatives. In this conversation, she discusses how she got into the model industry, her work for Kwa Jewelry and much more.
How did you start your modelling career, what sparked your interest in the field? Â
I actually was never interested in pursuing modelling until later on in life. I've always loved fashion for as long as I can remember, however growing up I had other outlets of expressing myself such as photography, thrift upcycles and writing. I started when a mutual friend (Thuto from Path Images) kindly reached out for a test shoot cause he believed I had "the look". The shoot was surprisingly comfortable and spontaneous for me which I absolutely adored, topped with the very lovely end results. So I decided to research the industry intensively and give it a try with more intention and direction.
Was it easy for you to get comfortable with being in front of the camera or just being around a couple of people during photoshoots when you started modelling?
Yes it was, I never struggled to switch on what I refer to as my alter ego. When shooting the outer world all becomes a blur to me, my periphery focuses solely on the lens plus allowing my body and expressions to flow as one with the camera.
Which photoshoot/campaign that you have done, is your favourite?
I don't quite believe in favorites. I am very peculiar with what I shoot and with who, so everything I have done I value.
Nthabiseng Faith photographed by Juliana Schaller
You are Kwa Jewelry’s creative director, how did that come about and what do you like most about the brand?Â
I have previously worked closely with the founder as their personal art assistant, so when they decided to relaunch the jewelry brand I was fortunate enough to be on their mind. Even though I had not done something like this before, they believed in my artistic mind and work ethic which I am very grateful for. Which brings me to your next point, honestly everything the brand embodies is very likeable.
Since joining the Kwa Jewelry brand, how are you adjusting to the role and what have you learned from the experience?
Honestly, the adjustment was seamless. If anything, it just amplified parts of me I kept suppressed over the years. So it has been such a reaffirming journey. I can be harshly critical of my work so the biggest takeaway for me right now would be learning to trust myself despite not knowing how people will receive or interact with the content.
How would you explain the experience of being a model in Botswana, and how are you dealing with it?Â
All cards on the table? It has been such a horrible experience for me locally. Again, as previously mentioned I am very particular. So I think that can easily be interpreted as being "difficult" which has resulted in such a disconnect and void. I am at a point where I no longer overanalyze or beat myself about it though. Still very grateful for all experiences, everything is a learning curve.
Nthabiseng Faith for LWE (then Versa La Troy) , SS23 POLENA Collection photographed by goodlivingmedia
Are you a freelance model or are you under management, between the two which is more is easy to work under?
Since I started in 2018, for most of my career I have been a freelance model. However, early this year I got signed internationally with Kult Models in Cape Town. As for which is easier to work under, each has its pros and cons. Also it would depend on your experience and the kind of modeling one does among other thing.
You've modelled for LWE since 2021, how did that come about and did you expect this 'partnership' with Troy Gabolwelwe to continue till now?
Troy reached out to me , which I was very open to without hesitation as I could see his passion and determination. Over the years I have watched him grow and hone his skills as a designer, each collection building towards a very distinctive style which absolutely makes me happy and proud of him. I think we are able to work so well together for so long as we have since built a friendship and connection where we are able to share our dreams and hold each other accountable.
Kwa Jewelry has branded itself as an Afrocentric brand, why did you choose to do so?
(I was not the one that decided on going with Afrocentric elements, I was fortunate enough to work with a team that allows me full creative expression, so my process does get inspired to create and lean more towards Africanity inevitably)
Nthabiseng Faith for Glotto SS23  “Glide into The Last Days of Summer” campaign photographed by Wenzile Dube
How do you balance staying true to your creative vision while also adapting to industry trends
By not adapting to trends. As cliche as it sounds, literally just doing me on a daily. Each day simply aiming to enlighten my creative self through experimentation and execution.
Where do you see Botswana’s fashion industry in the future and what role do you want to play in its development? Â
Honestly hard to say but I hope we grow to be open-minded and respectful of all the different roles and of one another within the industry.
 What is the biggest you’ve had moment in your career?Â
My biggest moments are yet to come.
Nthabiseng Faith photographed by Juliana Schaller
Who or what has been your biggest inspiration in Botswana’s creative industry?Â
Myself.
 What message do you have for young aspiring creatives? Â
Do not shy away from being different. With it may come being or feeling alone. Find comfort and affirmation in knowing that despite all of that, there is a tribe for you somewhere out there and someday you’ll know when you have found it. People who will not only resonate with your highest growing self but make you feel seen, heard and understood.
What’s next for you Nthabiseng?
I just know it's bigger and better. Constantly working towards ensuring this.
