Patricia Masikane -Mkwanazi

Plus-size runway and commercial model, media presenter and events MC, financial advisor, and former Miss Curvy Body SA Ambassador.

Redefining Representation Through Confidence and Purpose

Kwande Fest: Tell us about yourself and the space you occupy in the creative world.

Patricia Masikane Mkhwanazi:
My name is Patricia Masikane Mkhwanazi. I’m 31 years old, born and raised in KwaZulu-Natal — Newcastle and later Durban. I am an introverted, humble, hardworking, and versatile young woman. Professionally, I am Durban-based and work as a confident plus-size runway and commercial model, body positivity advocate, presenter, events MC, financial advisor at AM Broker Services, and a former Miss Curvy Body SA Ambassador. The brand is simply me — Patricia Masikane Mkhwanazi.

Kwande Fest: How did participating in Kwande Fest make you feel as a creative?

Patricia:
Being part of Kwande Fest 2025 was truly an experience of a lifetime, especially because it was my first time attending the event. It was super informative and allowed me to make meaningful connections as a brand. I had the opportunity to work with phenomenal designers such as Sbalocollection, Valluresa, Modesta, and others — even beyond the event itself. What made these collaborations special was how I was able to represent their brands authentically while showcasing their collections. That alignment mattered deeply to me.

Kwande Fest: What inspired you to begin your creative journey?

Patricia:
What inspired me to start my creative journey was becoming comfortable in my own body and skin, and confronting the monster called body shaming and body bullying. That experience made me realise that there are thousands of young girls and women who feel less worthy because of how their bodies were created, largely due to societal standards. My approach has always been to help people understand that it’s okay to be who they are and that they should learn to love themselves regardless.

Kwande Fest: How has your experience at Kwande Fest influenced your outlook as a creative and a brand?

Patricia:
It honestly felt absolutely great. I couldn’t quite believe it myself, but seeing the evolution that has taken place at Kwande Fest was powerful. What stood out most to me was how the platform highlighted body equality rather than discrimination. That was a deal-breaker for me as a brand. It showed me that Kwande Fest truly understands that African bodies also deserve visibility and a place on this platform.

Kwande Fest: What has been one of the biggest challenges in your industry, and how do you navigate it?

Patricia:
One of the most challenging aspects of being a plus-size model is that opportunities are still not as frequent. While the modelling industry is making steady progress in opening more platforms for plus-size models, consistency remains a challenge. That’s why it’s important to have a stable professional income to manage monthly expenses. Networking and socialising are also crucial, because as an artist, you never know where your next booking will come from.

Kwande Fest: What message would you share with creatives entering the industry today?

Patricia:
Be yourself, stay consistent, and make sure you are grounded. Learn to balance your passion with sustainability, build genuine connections, and don’t let society define your worth. There is space for you — even if you have to create it.

Year of Participation:
Kwande Fest 2025