‘Looking Good Is Compulsory’

At the age of eight, Silvanus Ndiweda, popularly known as Katicottoneater, fell in love with fashion.

Born and raised at Okuryangava, Katutura, he says looking good is compulsory.

Kati, who calls himself a celebrity stylist, fashion model, conceptual director, poet and content creator, says while growing up he would tell his parents what to buy and wear.

“I would always guide them on what to buy and wear, not knowing that it’s actually styling. But eventually, I discovered my dream, which is styling,” he says.

Kati says he is inspired by his mother and the late South African rapper Riky Rick.

He has worked with TopCheri, Gazza, Tate Buti, King TeeDee, Exit, Azmo Nawe, Ethnix, Majorsteez (from South Africa), Musketeers, Royal Ndappy, Tswazis, Sally Boss­madam, King Elegant, and PDK, he says.

“I have worked with many entertainers. I won’t be able to mention them all, because it’s almost the whole industry. People always refer me to someone they want me to work with, especially when they see my style,” he says.

His most recent work was with local artist Gazza on his new music video, titled ‘Checka’.

“I styled the whole set – from the clothes to the props in the music video. I had to make sure the music video was on fire,” he says.

He has also worked with international brand Canpeprey from Spain and Portugal, and hopes to work with more, Kati says.

A career highlight was when the international brand flew him out of the country to shoot content.

“It was an inexplicable feeling. I never thought my work would go abroad at that stage. At the time, I thought it was still early for me to enter the international market as a fashion stylist and content creator,” he says.

Kati says working with different personalities is an eye-opener.

On the local industry, he says: “Artists still need a lot of knowledge on star presence and the benefit of it. Music producers need to grasp the whole concept of scouting and directing talent.

“We need more fashion stylists in the country, and we need more designers to come forward with their work and showcase their passion,” he says.

Kati says he would like to work with musicians such as Lioness and other talented local artists.

“Globally, I would like to work with the likes of Pharrell Williams, Asap Rocky and more,” he says.

– unWrap.online