Mbali Z. Ndlovu’s passion for expanding representation and empowering others is at the heart of all her endeavors. Her most recent venture, Lukafit, started out as a local fitness meetup group that has now grown into an empowering activewear brand sparking a body positive health and wellness movement. This mission has earned Lukafit features in numerous publications, including Buzzfeed, Essence Magazine, The Root, Travel Noire, mindbodygreen, and TheGrio.
Before taking the entrepreneurial leap, Mbali worked with media organizations dedicated to creating positive and diverse images of people of color. After receiving her B.A. in African American Studies from Bates College, where her concentration in Film and Media Studies focused on examining the effects of media on Black adolescent identity development, Mbali held positions at BLACK GIRLS ROCK!, Word of Mouth Pictures, Turning Heads, and Firelight Media - organizations that have won Peabody, Emmy, SAFTA, and NAACP Image awards for their pivotal work.
I’m also attracted to vibrant neon and rich jewel tones because they look amazing on everyone’s skin :)
What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?
Black History Month is always a collective reminder about the great things we’ve accomplished in the past as well as how we’re expanding our genius in the present and future.
Where are you finding inspiration this year?
This photo of above of my Maryland-based customers always inspires me and brings a huge smile to my face! Robin (center) teaches yoga and two of her students (Patrice and Ade) are pictured on either side of her. I don’t remember who purchased their leggings first but the other two shortly followed suit and they often send me beautiful photos like this one where they’re all rocking their Lukafit gear!