Sharing stories of, and from real, women

Asanda Sizani. Picture: Arct Vernips WHY was it important for you to agree to be the editor of this magazine brand?

Glamour built its legacy on feminism. It was important for me to accept this role as I wanted to build on that and push storytelling in an authentic voice.

This is a pivotal time for women’s voices. My aim is to drive a brand that entertains, inspires and informs. Readers can expect style with substance, something or someone unexpected each month, an inclusion of real voices, a Panafrican viewpoint. We are seeing more ‘firsts’ and an increase in diversity in publishing. Does that come with an unfair amount of pressure and expectation?

There is certainly pressure to perform, especially at this challenging time for print media. I am steering a visual and editorial overhaul. That is no small task. I am of course aware of my being the youngest, and first black Editor-in-chief in Glamour SA’S 14-year history, but I am focused on how I am re-imagining the brand and propelling it forward. I thrive under pressure.

For your first issue, what were you looking to say to the Glamour reader and lover of fashion publications?

This first issue marks new beginnings. It also has a message of solidarity – which will be a consistent theme in different ways. From the cover choice to zeitgeisty features, to fashion and beauty content, our focus is on what’s new, now, next.

We will go behind the glamour, peel back the layers to share stories of, and from real, women. A recurring theme will be solidarity and unity among women from diverse backgrounds and industries.

Our key focus is being sisters celebrating sisters. Look forward to more fashion and greater local content with a special focus on hair.

Is there a feature you really enjoyed in this issue?

I enjoyed every one. I think the breast memoirs are a key feature to read. It came to mind before I joined the brand and to see real, diverse perspectives on the pages is amazing.

I wanted to add the vernacular as our South African languages are important to preserve. Our features writer, Yolisa Mjaba, also interviewed Yvonne Oroji from the hit TV series Insecure, E! Entertainment presenter Zuri Hall and supermodel Maria Borges.

The September issue will be out tomorrow.