Margret Chola, a mid-80s grandmother from rural Zambia, has become an unlikely fashion icon, capturing hearts with her bold style and unapologetic confidence.
Known simply as “Mbuya” to her neighbors, Chola now commands an impressive following of 200,000 fans on Instagram, where she is celebrated for her striking photoshoots and trendsetting looks.
From Farm to Fashion Star
The transformation began when her granddaughter, Diana Kaumba, a New York-based stylist, proposed dressing Chola in high-fashion outfits during a visit to Zambia.
The pair staged photoshoots featuring everything from turquoise dresses to shimmering silver pantsuits, blending high fashion with Chola’s everyday rural surroundings.
One standout photograph showcases Chola lounging on a leather sofa, wearing a blonde wig and oversized green sunglasses.
In another, she pairs a regal gold crown with a chitenge, a traditional Zambian patterned garment, standing next to a goat—a nod to her status as the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time).
“I wasn’t doing anything at the time, so I said: ‘Why not?’” Chola explained. “You will miss me when I die, and at least this way you will be remembering me.”
Internet Stardom
Kaumba, inspired by the anniversary of her father’s passing, hoped the project would honor her grandmother and highlight the intersection of tradition and modernity.
The response was overwhelming: the first photo garnered over 1,000 likes in 10 minutes, and Chola’s fanbase continues to grow.
Chola’s message resonates deeply with her followers.
“Live your life and don’t worry about being judged by society,” she advises. “You can never change your past, but you can change your future.”
A Style Revolution
Beyond the glamour, Chola’s story is a celebration of individuality and the power of intergenerational creativity.
Her journey from farm life to Instagram fame challenges stereotypes about age and beauty, proving that style knows no limits.
