Today we’d like to introduce you to Afi Elizabeth Ntontolo.
Hi Afi, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
Everyone has a story. Everyone has a passion. To discover your passion, pay close attention to the things you love to do and the joy you get from it. My love for fashion started at a very young age. At five years old, I discovered my passion for clothes. I would observe my mom create the perfect outfits for the next day every night. I was born in Congo Kinshasa. As Congolese, we are known for our fashion. Anyone that can dress in my culture is called Sapeurs!
Sapeurism is a well-known subculture within the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo and is quickly starting to spread throughout other countries. Sapeurs have already established influencers inspiring international artists such as Solange Knowles and local artists such as Papa Wemba. From Suave suits, colorful bow ties, and scarves: this is a subculture that has been passed on from generation to generation. Congolese we show up and show out! Fashion is part of my culture.
When I was 4ish we moved to Europe. I lived in Switzerland and Germany and spent the rest of my two years in Paris, France. I have family everywhere in Europe and in Africa. Living in France my passion for fashion grew even stronger. I was never that kid that slacked. Growing up my mother dressed me like a brand and to this day I carry myself as a brand. How I present myself when I walk out of my house is important to me. I make sure I look put together at all costs. Of course, I have my days but, on those days, I still look my best.
As I got older, I found peace in fashion. There were days when I would lock myself in my room music playing, trying on all my clothes. Fashion brings me happiness; trying on clothes is therapeutic to me. When I was in high school, my dad signed my older brother and me up to try out for an agency called New View. I learned about makeup and the importance of presentation. Later, I left the New View agency and got signed by John Casablanca. I worked as a model and learned a lot about fashion… In 2013 I decided to start my blog. This was a mini step into my YouTube journey. My parents weren’t into me pushing out YouTube videos for safety purposes. So, I used my blog as my mini fashion show type of vibe. I was posting about my lifestyle, my faith, fashion, and beauty. But later on, I noticed that writing wasn’t my thing. Broadcasting was, so I took my blog to YouTube without my parents knowing. Little did I know that some of my videos would go viral and I would pop up on my family members’ YouTube front page. Lol
I started my YouTube channel to inspire girls like me who didn’t have older sisters. I thank God for my mother! But there were some days I felt like I couldn’t talk to her like I would talk to a sister or a friend. When talking to your parents there’s a level of respect etc. I was bullied when I was younger, which taught me something very important. I learned to treat people how I would like to be treated. It taught me how to accept and treat everyone around me fairly. I want to help that little girl who needs or wants a mentor and guidance. Not everything you see on social media is positive. I think people overlook the definition of the word influencer.
As a millennial, I’m observing that my generation is wild! And I don’t blame them for it because influencers are out here pushing nonsense and making it cool. When it’s not. . I want to be a positive example to that little girl who wants to be someone in life. How I got where I am today because of my parents Emilie and Dido Ntontolo. They taught me how to dress, they taught me how to carry myself as a woman and what happens when you live life according to God’s words and if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I am in life. I use my experience to guide those who didn’t grow up like me. Dress respectfully, take yourself seriously, and go after the positive things in life. What society says is cool is never cool. But if you focus on yourself and God. You’ll learn that you’ve been cool all along!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I am a personal stylist in Columbus, Cincinnati, and Dayton, Ohio. I am the founder of Afi Elizabeth, providing personal shopping and image consulting services to my clients. I also express my love for fashion and personal style on my various social media platforms.
As an image consultant, I help women and men to expand and develop a wardrobe that promotes their social and public image by assessing their personality, career goals, and body type, I am known for introducing new brands, trends, and shopping tools to my Ohio clients and audiences across the world. For years, I have served as a useful source for those seeking inspiration, help, or advice. I finally decided to own that role and be intentional about it.
In my personal life, I graduated with a communication major with a minor in French at Wright States University, also went to John Casablancas Model and Talent Management where I learned a lot about fashion and beauty. I have a certificate in media from Ohio Media School in Columbus Ohio and Studying for my master’s in Political Science at the University of Cincinnati, I also have a career outside of fashion. I’m a digital social media communication coordinator for a well-known nonprofit political organization in Ohio.
I’m most proud of my ability to keep going, keep pushing, and never quit. I haven’t quit because I believe in my dreams and I know if not now. Then very soon.
What sets me apart from others is my uniqueness and ability to observe what my supporters want and create useful content that isn’t for my entertainment but theirs. I guess I’m of Congolese descent and celebrate the beauty of individuality; in life and style.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
My bible, prayers, and Joyce Myer podcast … I love people-watching that’s where I get most of my inspirations and resources. I love and enjoy watching others do what they love and allowing my ideas to flow from my surroundings.
Pricing:
- Style Consultation Call: 30mins $50
- closet Edit: 2hrs $300
- Personal Stylist: 3hrs $500
- Seasonal Shopping (Virtual or In-person) 4 hr 30 min $650
- New Closet: Wardrobe Capsule: 5 hr 30 min $1000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.afielizabeth.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afielizabeth_/
- Facebook: Affordable fashion by Afi Elizabeth
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RaNdOmNeSs1001000
Image Credits
Afi Elizabeth
