Karishma Isaacs blends fashion and music, champions Namibian identity

Isaacs, 30, aims to demonstrate that one can excel in multiple passions without sacrificing either. Initially known as a musician, her entry into fashion design began when she sought to create unique outfits for her own music videos and photoshoots. After enrolling at the College of the Arts Namibia in 2018, she found making clothes as fulfilling as writing lyrics.

Her brand, Karnation, interprets urban culture through a Namibian perspective, offering a "classic yet trendy" style. Isaacs states that her Namibian identity is central to both her music, which blends Afrikaans and local slang, and her fashion. Her latest project, a hip-hop drill track titled 'Choss', exemplifies this fusion, described as "more than just a rhythm; it is a fashion statement."

Encouraged by Namibian musician Lioness, Isaacs feels confident embracing her multi-faceted identity. She is inspired by industry developments like Big Daddy Fashions' invitation to local designers and dreams of seeing Namibian designs in retail stores nationwide, eventually leading to Namibian-owned distribution. Isaacs advocates for outward-facing competitiveness, urging Namibian creatives to collaborate and compete on a continental or international level rather than against each other.

She envisions a future where Namibian stories are shared globally by Namibians.