Born into a humble family, Maggie Kunda Chanda, known fondly as Maggie Chanda, is a testament to the power of determination, discipline, and dreaming big. From a young age, she was nurtured by her uncle, facing unique challenges that laid the groundwork for her resilient character.
Maggie’s journey into modelling began in her school days when she participated in school pageants. The potential she demonstrated in these early days often elicited comments from people who could see her potential. Still, it wasn’t until 2020 that she took their words seriously and acknowledged the possibility of a professional modelling career.
Her professional breakthrough came when she stumbled upon an advert for Ndola Fashion Week. Facing initial family resistance and the hurdle of financing her auditions, she managed to secure the necessary funds through her sister’s support. The audition was a leap of faith, one that landed her in the company of esteemed models, cementing her place in the modelling industry. This, she recalls, was one of her greatest experiences, a stepping stone that opened doors for more opportunities in and out of the country.
Growing up in a Christian family, however, her decision to pursue modelling was not immediately accepted. The notion of modelling was seen as potentially tarnishing the family’s reputation and the Christian values instilled in her. After years of persuasion and showing her unwavering commitment, her family eventually came to accept her chosen path. Additionally, she identified a lack of governmental support as a significant hurdle in promoting her career and the fashion industry within Zambia.
Nevertheless, Maggie’s journey has been rich with memorable experiences and triumphs. Working with Ubuntu fashion opened doors to collaborate with international models, further refining her professional edge. Her participation in Malawi Fashion Week marked her first international venture, and being nominated as one of the best upcoming runway models at the Beautiful Africa Fashion Week was a momentous affirmation of her talent.
When considering the current state of the fashion industry in Zambia, Maggie believes there is still much room for growth. The perception that fashion is a luxury reserved for the wealthy and the underappreciation of designers’ talents are challenges that need to be addressed. Despite these hurdles, she remains hopeful that with the right kind of push and appreciation, the industry will flourish.
To budding models, she offers the ingredients to her success recipe discipline, determination, self-control, commitment, believing in oneself, and hard work. This includes maintaining a rigorous physical regimen and a healthy diet, both of which are integral parts of her own preparation process for shows.
Despite the exhilarating thrill of working for international fashion shows, Maggie is still grounded by her heritage. She adheres to the African philosophy of Ubuntu and believes in the importance of preserving her cultural roots, something she has incorporated into her work by telling stories of her Zambian background.
With ambitious goals for the future, including gracing stages at Africa Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week, and Paris Fashion Week, Maggie keeps her sights set high. She also aspires to launch her own clothing line, aiming to uplift other young girls who share her dream of entering the fashion industry.
More than her professional achievements, Maggie hopes to serve as an inspiration for the younger generation. She wants her story to resonate with the message that success is possible regardless of one’s background or the obstacles they face. Her story is a testament that with determination, hard work, and a strong belief in oneself, even the most distant dreams can become reality.
