Agnella Mulisa stitches culture into fashion

From humble beginnings at Katima Mulilo, Agnella Mulisa (23) has built Oshiwa Designs into a brand blending cultural storytelling with contemporary Namibian fashion.

When she first touched a sewing machine in 2022, her goal was simple: to make stylish, practical hair bonnets that helped women feel confident at home.

“I wanted it to be functional but lovely,” she says.

“That’s how Oshiwa Designs started – from a little act of imagination that kept on growing.”

Mulisa says she has steadily built Oshiwa into a ready-to-wear and bespoke brand that combines contemporary elegance with cultural storytelling.

Her latest work, ‘The Omutima Collection’ (‘omutima’ means ‘heart’ in Oshiwambo) reflects this vision.

Comprising six looks, the collection explores themes of love, heritage, and connection.

“Every piece is about feeling and connection,” she says. “Fashion isn’t fashion – it’s storytelling, celebrating where we came from, and making someone feel confident in what they’re wearing.”

Mulisa says her path has been far from smooth.

Access to quality materials, limited visibility, and raising capital remain uphill battles, she says.

Being based outside the country’s creative hubs makes it harder, she says.

“You have to hustle to get into the right rooms, but it makes the victories so much sweeter.”

Mulisa’s designs have been showcased at Katutura Fashion Week 2024 and featured in UpNext season two.

Looking ahead, she dreams of Oshiwa becoming a recognised name across Namibia. She imagines pop-up shows, nationwide boutique showcases, and collaborations with well-known figures like Maria Nepembe and Johanna Swartbooi.

“They portray sophistication and empowerment – that is what Oshiwa Designs is about,” she says.

For Mulisa, fashion is not about chasing trends or profits. It is about meaning.

“My work is my expression of how, from the smallest start, you can build something that speaks loudly and beautifully to the world,” she says.

According to the Fashion Council of Namibia, Mulisa’s story reflects a broader shift in the country’s design landscape, where young creatives outside traditional hubs are shaping new conversations in fashion.

“Voices like hers bring diversity and depth to Namibian fashion,” the council says, adding that her cultural lens and entrepreneurial spirit highlight the growing reach of the industry.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.