CHRISTELLE Kwizera was recently selected to represent Rwanda as the 2014 Moremi Initiative for Women’s Leadership in Africa (MILEAD) Fellow. 

MILEAD is a long-term leadership development fellowship programme designed to identify, develop and promote emerging young African women leaders to attain and thrive in leadership in their communities and Africa as a whole.

Kwizera spoke to Society Magazine’s Doreen Umutesi about the inspiration of her fashion sense. 

 How would you describe your fashion sense?

My fashion sense is highly related to the kind of activities I have that day.  At school when I have lab work, I wear protective attire and long buttoned shirts. However most days, I wear simple pants/jeans and a colourful Mandela shirt. When I have a meeting or I am going to hang out with friends, I go with tailored or peplum dresses.

What’s your favourite clothing item?

I have crazy love for tailored elbow-length jackets. I find them classy and I think they can be worn anytime, anywhere. 

Where do you shop for clothes?

When I am at school in Oklahoma, I am a bit of a shopaholic as it helps me water down the stress. As a plus size woman, the USA offers me a great array of shops to choose from. However when I’m in Kigali, I tend to go to art shops to buy Mandela shirts and batik dresses.

What do you consider when shopping clothes?

I first consider the size and then feel the comfort of the fabric. I don’t go for new stuff. I believe clothes are made for people - not the other way around. Thus I don’t stress over getting a good fit from the latest style, but rather, I focus on what works for my body and my activities.

Your favourite fashion accessory?

This may sound strange but great nails can make any outfit a hit. Gel manicure helps me find a balance between the desire to look good and the fact that I mostly do technical work. Can you believe those nails last three weeks despite all the machinery handling?

What is your favourite clothing item on a guy?

Suits. Guys look great in well fitting suits.

What’s your favourite scent?

I used to be crazy about Sensual Amber (a collection from Bath and Body Works) however it was discontinued last year. This year I have fallen in love with Diesel.

Any fashion advice?

Fashion should serve us. It should not be a drive for lack of confidence or force us to look a certain way.