Studio Manager
I was born and raised in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa-a township steeped in history and resilience. My childhood home stood just two to four houses away from the residences of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, placing me in proximity to the legacy of two global icons. My upbringing was shaped by my maternal grandparents and parents, all college-educated professionals, who instilled in me the values of education, pride, dressing with intention, and ubuntu-our shared humanity.
From an early age, I found joy in fashion and the arts, often expressing my creativity through personal style and setting trends throughout my school years. While studying at the University of Johannesburg (formerly known as Rand Afrikaans University, or RAU), I worked at Woolworths Pty. Ltd. in Sandton, where I honed my skills in service experience and retail operations.
In 2002, I embraced a transformative opportunity by joining Disney World’s International Program, driven by a desire to expand my perspective and immerse myself in a creative, multicultural environment. That leap became the foundation of weaving my South African heritage, technical acumen, and artistic passions into a vibrant and evolving career. While at Disney, I met my husband, Bradley, in 2003. We married in Savannah, Georgia, and later moved to Columbus, Ohio, to be closer to family. Over the years, I worked in retail and corporate roles as a contractor, ranging from visual merchandising and styling to logistics and service experience.
To deepen my expertise, I pursued fashion courses through Yellowbrick Programs-sponsored by institutions such as Parsons and FIT-and attended fashion conferences in New York hosted by Fashionista. One of the most inspiring moments in my career was participating in the Fall/Winter 2021 campaign for Ellen Tracy NYC, where I had the privilege of working with an all-woman team-from photographer to makeup artist to hairstylist.
In 2019, I took a bold turn and transitioned into financial services, despite having no prior experience in the field. I embraced the challenge, knowing it would be a valuable learning curve. After six years in finance, I felt a strong pull back to my creative roots and returned to the fashion industry when I learned of an opportunity to join Wardrobe Therapy as Studio Manager. They say timing is everything-I had long aspired to work with Wardrobe Therapy, and now the moment has arrived. I am honored to be part of this team and grateful for the opportunity to contribute my experience, passion, and heritage.
I am also a proud mother of two daughters at The Ohio State University-both pre-law students. My eldest is 21 and a junior, and my youngest is 19 and a sophomore. We reside in Columbus, where I delight in the rhythm of family life, balancing my professional journey with the joy of being present for my husband and daughters when they’re home.
What is your style philosophy?
Style isn’t something you learn-it’s something you’re born with. It’s the art of expressing your individuality through clothing, a visual language that speaks before you say a word. When you look good, you feel unstoppable.
My mother and grandmother always said, “The world doesn’t need to see your struggles or worries. Show up the way you want to be respected and addressed.” That wisdom lives in every outfit I choose. Style, to me, is confidence stitched with intention-an everyday celebration of who you are and how you want the world to see you.
Style icon: Olivia Palermo & Tracee Ellis Ross
Favorite label: Issey Miyake, Comme des Garçons
Most meaningful item in my wardrobe: Each piece tells a story-my grandfather’s cufflinks case, my father’s Giorgio Armani pants and Italian plaid woven blazer, my mother’s wedding reception dress (worn again at my prom), my grandmother-in-law’s St. John classic blazer, and my mother-in-law’s vintage YSL mule sandals. These aren’t just clothes; they are cherished memories. I’m deeply sentimental.
Favorite jeans: Agolde, Rag & Bone
Biggest splurge: Valentino Garavani VLogo small shoulder bag
Greatest steal: Chanel loafers, Prada loafers, & Off-White suede boots
Perfect Saturday: My ideal Saturday begins with an early morning walk through the park, soaking in fresh air and peaceful surroundings. Afterward, I head home and enjoy a comforting cup of coffee to ease into the day. Saturdays are my dedicated self-care days-I treat myself to a fresh manicure and a hair appointment, and also swing by to pick up my dry cleaning. Since pampering takes up most of the morning, I spend the afternoon relaxing and catching up on my favorite K-dramas. I especially love watching them for the fashion and style inspiration they offer. Evenings are reserved for quality time-whether it’s with my husband, family, or close friends, it’s the perfect way to end a fulfilling day.
Favorite food to make: I love making steamed bread (a traditional South African bread) and malva pudding, which is also a South African dessert, with homemade custard.
Band you wish to meet backstage: The Roots, Nas, and Coldplay
My life in a hashtag: #youliveandlearn #showupandshowout
Words to live by:
“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” – Nelson Mandela
Philanthropy close to the heart: Dress for Success and any other nonprofit that supports children’s education and women’s empowerment.
When you’re not thinking about fashion, you’re: Strolling through Franklin Park, savoring Sunday brunch with family, sharing quiet dinners with my husband, and catching up with loved ones in South Africa. Sundays are for slowing down, reconnecting, and embracing joy.
Contact Kuli at kuli@wardrobetherapyllc.com.