Three local designers have come together to prove that when women support women, magic happens.
Meet Genevieve Daw, the warm and wildly creative interior designer behind Bellagio in Salt Rock; Cathy Wanjohi, vibrant fashion designer and founder of Zinge Afrika; and Verushka Pather, dancer-turned-designer and the visionary behind Khanya Designs.
Their friendship began in school drop-off queues and small-town hellos. Verushka and Genevieve first crossed paths when their children were in junior primary. Verushka remembers being instantly drawn to Genevieve’s infectious laugh and open-hearted energy. “She wore her heart all over her face,” she says.
Their shared love of creativity quickly bridged any formalities, and Genevieve soon introduced Verushka to Cathy, whose fashion brand, Zinge Afrika, Verushka had long admired. “I walked into her store and just said how proud I am to meet other women telling the story of the weave of our land through fashion,” Verushka recalls. That moment sparked something special and the three have supported and guided each other’s businesses since then.
Bonding over design (and chai)
Despite their different backgrounds, the three women found they spoke the same creative language. They bounce ideas off each other constantly, with Genevieve encouraging Verushka to dream bigger and explore new shapes and textures in her garments. “She helps me go beyond the boundaries,” says Verushka.
Cathy agrees. “Despite our differences, we share tons of ideas. By understanding our strengths, we’ve created incredibly powerful synergies,” she says.
All three admit they’ve grown personally and professionally through the friendship. Verushka has learned to trust the process, to lead gently and create with heart. Cathy, who describes herself as more introverted, has found herself inspired by her friends’ confidence and generosity. And Genevieve, always the calm centre, brings kindness and harmony into every collaboration.
A shoot to remember
One of their most memorable moments was a shared fashion shoot – a whirlwind of theme planning, outfit changes and poses that revealed new sides of themselves. It wasn’t just about the clothes. It was about expression, freedom and fun. “Usually, we’re in business mode,” says Cathy. “This time, it was playful and exciting – it reminded me how powerful creative energy can be when it’s shared.”
Style that speaks
Their designs may differ, but their work shares a common thread: authenticity. Cathy’s love of bright colours reflects her optimistic personality. Genevieve is known for creating interiors that exude love, calm and belonging. And Verushka’s pieces honour tradition while offering something deeply personal – each garment a dance of fabric and story.
They admire each other’s perfectionism and vision, yet there’s no competition; only celebration. “In a normal situation we would be rivals,” says Verushka. “But we’re not. We’re sisters.”
Celebrating wins, big and small
In true Ballito style, wins are marked with food, laughter and love. There are hugs, phone calls, and heartfelt messages. “We are women who love fiercely,” says Verushka, and Cathy adds, “We gift each other just to say, ‘I see you.’”
Looking ahead
What’s next? More chai, more food, more fabrics – and more growth. Cathy is expanding Zinge Afrika’s online presence and says she’s grateful to have her two friends cheering her on. Verushka continues to pour soul into Khanya Designs and knows Gen and Cathy will be there through every late-night sketch and early morning sewing session.
As their businesses evolve, so does their bond – fuelled by creativity, friendship and a shared belief that collaboration is the most stylish choice of all.
Details: IG: @zinge_afrika; @khanyadesigns; @bellagio_interiors
Photographs: Barry Bowditch
Makeup: Ncumisa Sigalelana
Hair: Swarna Kassie
