Namibia: Polikem On the Way to Becoming Fashion Powerhouse

This year's Big Brother Africa reality show may just prove to be the most successful to date if one looks at former housemates who are making it big after participating in the show. 'The Chase' has seen housemates like Zambian Sulu Banda receiving continental success with his hit song 'Ruby'.

Namibia's Maria Nepembe bagged a lucrative TV presenter gig in Ghana, while winner Dillish Mathews was named ambassador for GoTV. Musicians Cleo 'Ice Queen' and Feza Kessy are making big strides in their careers.Clearly, the platform offered by BBA is one that can propel participants to greater heights.

Another pair of ex-housemates using the BBA experience to maximum advantage are Pokello Nare from Zimbabwe and Ghana's Elikem Kumordzi. The two, who are also romantically involved, have partnered to sell and market Elikem's tailored masterpieces. The line, aptly called 'Tailored By Elikem,' is now available in Pokello's boutique, Pokello's Addicted to Shoes shop in Zimbabwe. The two also recently launched a joint fashion brand called 'Queen of Swag' and plans are underway to open a Pokello's Addicted To Shoes boutique in Ghana.

In an exclusive interview with The Namibian, Pokello revealed that the response towards their new ventures has been overwhelming. "The response is overwhelming with demand surpassing supply and distribution capacity at the moment. We have orders coming in from as far as Australia, America, United Kingdom, and Thailand," she said.

Even though it's still a new brand, Tailored By Elikem is an exclusive brand made with great attention to detail. With Africa as the inspiration, the garments have a West African feel and are adorned with hand-beading and embroidery, the key elements used in making them. "We have also incorporated Elikem's signature of the tape measure into the dresses as our conspicuous identification," said Pokello.

On the pressures of working as a couple, Pokello said it's not that difficult because of their mutual respect for each other. "When you share a vision, it doesn't feel like you have to balance romance and business. Our relationship is based on understanding and respect. Therefore, we treasure each other's ideas and improve on them. Romance is a part of our every communication whether business or pleasure," she said.

The pair also hinted at wedding bells possibly ringing soon. "All we can say is watch this space and there will be several garments worn at that occasion," they said. Namibian fans of the two are in for a treat as they have received an invitation to visit and will be making their way to Namibia in December.

The pair also have ambitious plans to make sure that their clothing lines will be available in most African countries within the next six months.

Article courtesy of  THE NAMIBIAN - ENTERTAINMENT - BIG BROTHER AFRICA | 2013-10-14