September 10, 2024 — When Kunda Nampasa '25, an international student from Zambia, first arrived at Marist, she brought with her a rich global perspective shaped by living in South Africa, Tunisia, Côte d'Ivoire, and now the United States. She says her experience as a "third culture kid"—someone raised in a culture different from that of their parents or country of nationality while living in yet another environment—led her to pursue a double major in fashion merchandising and French and a minor in psychology.

“I heard about Marist through a friend who recently graduated, and he told me about the great fashion program,” said Kunda. “I decided to apply because of the fashion program, the school’s closeness to the city and home, and the familiarity of my friend.”

Over the past summer, Kunda took her passion for fashion and culture to the next level by securing a prestigious internship with Guzangs, a platform dedicated to celebrating African fashion and heritage. In her role as a fashion communications intern, she became deeply involved in curating mood boards, organizing garments, and coordinating between Guzangs and Marist to help prepare for an upcoming exhibit on African fashion.

For Kunda, this experience was more than just an internship; it was a deeply personal project. “‘Made in Africa’ isn’t just a slogan to me—it’s a story I feel called to tell,” Kunda said. “This exhibit is an opportunity to illuminate the continent's diversity and inspire others to view fashion through a more inclusive lens. My love for home, and the many places I’ve called home, fuels everything I do.”

The exhibit, titled “Alternative Realities: Modern and Contemporary African Fashion, a View from the Continent,” will run from September 12 to November 15 in Marist’s Steel Plant. Curated by Guzangs and directed by Marist Fashion Gallery Director Sonia Roy, it will feature 14 acclaimed designers from across Africa, highlighting the fusion of traditional techniques with contemporary, sustainable practices. Kunda’s involvement has been instrumental in ensuring the show’s authenticity, helping to manage aspects like catering, social media, and the overall immersive experience.

Professor Sonia Roy and Kunda Nampasa '25 at Steel Plant. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist College.

“Once I heard about the exhibit, I contacted Guzangs to inquire about their internship opportunities,” Kunda said. “For the exhibit, I'll be managing various aspects, including catering and social media, and creating an immersive environment that showcases the cultural significance of African fashion while emphasizing its modern innovation and historical roots.”

Roy praised Kunda’s contributions, noting that her work behind the scenes helped shape the exhibit's atmosphere, offering the Marist community and beyond a firsthand look at the innovation and cultural significance of African fashion.

“This exhibit offers a unique opportunity to engage with the innovative and culturally rich world of African fashion,” Roy said. “It provides Marist and surrounding communities firsthand exposure to the diverse and dynamic landscape of African fashion, equipping students with valuable insights for the international fashion market.”

As Kunda looks forward to the exhibit’s opening, she reflects on how her global upbringing continues to shape her academic and personal journey. “Each place I've lived has added something unique to my story, and this exhibit is a way to bring all of that together,” she said.

See more information on the Guzangs exhibit set to begin later this week at Steel Plant.