In Conversation with: Kalenga Kapolyo

My name is Kalenga Kapolyo, I am lifestyle blogger currently residing in Johannesburg. I am also a youtuber! A serial entrepreneur and a diehard foodie.

How would you describe your style?

I would describe my style as very eclectic, sometimes androgynous and extremely feminine. I know, confusing right? It really depends on how I feel on the day, what inspired me or what the weather insists, but I am a fashionista.

How did you get into blogging?

I got into blogging almost 5 years ago because I wanted to rant about the fact that I was plus size, and no one gave me attention. One day I looked at my blog and thought I could do better. I love beauty, skin care and living and I decided I could do better and expand. Not just focusing on the plus size aspect because I knew I would be bored soon.

Why did you choose to talk about beauty and fashion?

Beauty and Fashion are a daily part of my life. No one really thinks about it, but we are all part of it, just that some of us are more aware of it than others. Why not turn a daily routine into an interest, a hobby, or a job? That’s what I thought about then and its why I am into beauty and fashion. I think its just part of me.

What do you hope people will take away from reading your blog?

When someone reads my blog, I would like them to walk away with more knowledge. Its more than just pretty pictures and flat lays. Knowledge is power, and my reader needs to choose what they will do with it. Secondly a sense of understanding, there is nothing extravagant about what I do. I want to be relatable, familiar and clear. My reader needs to know I have the same issues as them and this is how I deal with them. Like where to find plus size underwear which is a big issue in SA or where to buy affordable skin care products, which cream is better for that pimple and even how to save money! For your future!

Apart from blogging, what else do you do?

Apart from blogging I run a few business ventures, Be Uzuri & Co which is handmade beauty products, completely natural and perfect for all skin types. Skindotcom which is where I retail some beauty products I get from around the world. I also have a job. I am a millennial entrepreneur.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you so far?

So far, I have learned that nothing happens as you planned, go with the flow and let your creativity juices flow. Many creatives or bloggers will tell you how meticulous they are about time and planning and it just never worked for me. I do it when I feel like it and its totally okay.

I have also learned that nothing is as it seems, social media has a way of creating a perfect facade and we all can get lost in all the perfect pics and tags. Stay true to yourself.

Lastly, be unique. Learn from others, but don’t copy.

How would your family and friends describe you?

My family and friends would say am outspoken, ambitious and I watch too much TV. Hahaha outgoing will be on the top of the list.

Describe a typical day in your life.

Depending on what the day holds for me during the week, I am up by 9am, head to work at 10 am, done by 2 pm. I drive around finishing up things for my ventures, spend some time in the mall window shopping and I am home by 6pm.

Weekends; if there are no commitments, I am in bed until life drags me out of it. Editing a video or watching videos.

What is the soundtrack to your life?

OOOps, I love too many songs. Too many of them are jams to my life! I have to get back to you on this one.

What would you say to someone new to blogging or considering blogging?

I would say, if you don’t love it don’t do it. If it’s for attention get the right attention. Blogging is currently a saturated industry (if you are considering it as a career) you better be creative and outstanding. Don’t do it for the money, well in the beginning, just learn.

What is your theme for 2018?

2018 for me is black and white. It’s how I am currently seeing things right, clean and clear can’t wait to see what I move on to.

Do you have bloggers that you follow, if so who and why?

I follow a lot of bloggers both local and international. I follow them all because I love what they do and it’s the only way I can learn to be better and stay in the loop. I love Shirley Eniang, Dimmah Umeh, Kefilwe Mabote, Katleho Malela, Grace Senga and many more!

Where is your dream destination and why?

My dream destination is the world, I want to see it all I think it’s the best education one can get.

What are you most fond of, about being Zambian/Congolese?

I am extremely proud of where I am from, being of Congolese and Zambian heritage I guess I get to argue a lot about who has the best food. That has to be one of the most endearing things ever. I love that I was also given a chance to experience both sides. To be honest they’re more similar than they know.

When are you happiest?

I am happiest when I express myself, when I let it out. I like that feeling of being able to paint how I feel and being able to show it. I am happy when I experience something new.

If you were to give up anything for a year what would it be and why?

I would give up carbs because of my health. I love carbs!

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

These are the top 3. My Brother “when you know who you are, you can stand your ground anywhere” My partner “the more success you have, the more you will be noticed, the more will be said just handle it with grace” The internet “start where you are with what you have.”

How would you like to be remembered?

I haven’t decided yet, dreams change, and I will change and at this very moment I have not yet thought of the end. Hopefully I will be remembered as someone who didn’t shy away from the truth. A hard-working woman and an African creative. Let’s get me on the cover or Forbes magazine first! Hahahaha

Social media /blog links

Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/kurvekut/

Twitter- https://twitter.com/Kurvekut

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/kurvekut/

Email- kurvekut@outlook.com

Store- www.b-uzuri.co.za

Blog- www.kurvekut.com

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHLWuLhcxNdcAKoyTiSbYdA?view_as=subscriber

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *