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This past weekend’s Basadi in Music Awards saw a touching family moment unfold as celebrated actress, style icon, and designer Enhle Mbali attended the event in support of her mother, Bongi Mlotshwa, who was honoured with the prestigious Trailblazer of the Year Award.
The annual Basadi in Music Awards, a celebration of women in music and entertainment, honours female trailblazers across various disciplines. Held at the Joburg Theatre, the 2025 edition delivered glamour, excellence, and heartfelt tributes to the women shaping the creative landscape of South Africa.
A year after attending the 2024 Basadi Awards, Enhle returned to the red carpet as a proud daughter. Dressed in a striking look from her own fashion label, Essie Apparel, Enhle was joined by her two sons, who attended in support of their grandmother, making it a powerful multi-generational appearance that captured the hearts of many.
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In a touching twist, Bongi Mlotshwa – a veteran in the film and television industry – had no idea she would be receiving an award or that her daughter and grandchildren would be there to witness the moment. The surprise appearance left the honouree emotional and visibly moved, underscoring the personal resonance of the evening’s recognition.
This was a full-circle moment for Enhle Mbali and the family. From being honoured herself last year to standing beside her mother this year – and doing so while wearing her own brand – it’s a reminder of the generational legacy being built.
The moment was not only a celebration of artistic talent and perseverance but also a testament to family, legacy, and the power of women supporting women – across generations.
ABOUT THE ENHLE MBALI MLOTSHWA:
Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa, born on the 3rd of March 1988 is a renowned actress, television presenter and fashion designer. she gained prominence with her role as
Precious Ledwaba in the television series Tshisa and has since appeared in numerous South African soap operas and dramas, including Rockville, Blood Psalms and Blood legacy. She has also starred in Netflix shows including Queen Sono and home wrecker.
In 2015, Enhle launched SE Preggoz, a maternity wear line available in South Africa and Newyork, offering stylish options for expectant mothers. She further established Essie Apparel, a luxury fashion brand in 2019. Essie Apparel debuted at SA Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2020 and received international acclaim, being featured in Vogue Italia and winning best designer collection at Fashion Community Week in 2020.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Enhle is deeply committed to philanthropy. In 2018, Enhle established the Enhle Cares Foundation, focusing on empowering girls and young women from disadvantaged communities by addressing critical issues such as access to education and combating sexism in South Africa. Enhle is dedicated to her craft and community and has solidified her status as a multifaced and influential figure in the South African entertainment and fashion industries.
ABOUT THE ESSIE APPAREL:
Born out of Enhle Mbali’s passion for the fashion world in 2015, Essie is an international award winning luxury fashion brand that offers fashion for those who desire opulence at an attainable reach. The brand was launched at SAFW in 2019, featured vogue Italia and won the “Best Designer” Award at Fashion Community Week in San Francisco.
MISSION
For those who desire the freedom to live a life of luxury. Essie is a fashion brand that offers high quality and accessible clothing pieces which enable you to experience exclusivity and uniqueness, every day.
OUR CULTURE
A LIFE OF LUX EVERYDAY
We are a leading accessible fashion luxury brand that combines minimalistic, innovative, and unique pieces that are crafted with high quality textile with our pride and heritage
THE FASHION-FORWARD INDIVIDUAL
A person that is established, aspiring and works hard for what they have no matter what it is. Essie is for the individual who feels like spoiling themselves with great quality fashion pieces, any day.
CREATIVITY AT ITS CORE
Creativity is at the core of our brand. We produce high quality pieces with styles and
designs that are out of the box and didn’t exist before.
EXCLUSIVE LIVING
We are dedicated to creating luxurious pieces that are exclusive and very rare,
making our customers feel confident through a unique lux experience.
MAKING YOU LOOK AND FEEL GOOD, EVERYDAY
Essie Apparel bridges the gap between luxury and affordability. Each piece tells a story and is made to make you feel comfortable, and stylish, and express your uniqueness. Our pieces and concepts transcend trends and are nothing like anyone has ever seen before.
“Fashion should allow you to be confident in expressing yourself by the way you dress. Essie is limitless in offending the space.” Enhle Mbali