‘Live and let live’: Malawian fashion star Mabel Khonje throws star-studded masquerade bash at BICC”
- Holland-based fashion star and former Miss Malawi second princess pulls in celebrities, socialites and politicians for glittering celebration of her growing brand
Malawian fashion designer and former Miss Malawi second princess Mabel Khonje, who is based in the Netherlands, played host to Lilongwe’s high society on Friday evening, throwing her annual private party at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC).
The event, staged under a striking masquerade theme, drew a mix of celebrities, socialites and politicians, all gathered to mark not just a milestone in Khonje’s fashion journey, but the continued growth of her brand. The celebration came just days after the designer’s birthday.
Guests were treated to a three-course dinner as violin and piano performances set an elegant tone for the evening, before the night rolled into its main entertainment programme.
“Live and let live” — Khonje’s message to guests
Addressing the patrons, Khonje used her remarks to reflect on the importance of how people treat one another, telling guests that treating others well is essential to getting ahead in life.
Close friend Manganaye Kambauwa, who delivered the welcoming remarks under the theme “A Love Song by Doll Mabel,” paid glowing tribute to Khonje’s character.
Kambauwa described her simply as love, joy and warmth personified, saying Khonje has a gift for making people feel like old friends the moment she walks into a room.
Kambauwa also praised Khonje’s work ethic, saying she pursues her ambitions with determination and grace, and that she proves success and a soft, generous heart are not mutually exclusive.
On her faith, Kambauwa noted that Khonje remains grounded and disciplined, making a point of being in church every Sunday regardless of the night before.
The tribute also touched on Khonje’s role as a mother, with Kambauwa saying she loves fiercely, protects passionately and supports her children wholeheartedly.
Kambauwa summed her up as a woman with a rare ability to bring people together and make even ordinary moments feel special.
Business news: lingerie line and a new Dubai store
Khonje used the platform to reveal that she is expanding her business ventures with a new line of women’s intimate wear, or lingerie, designed to add a touch of glamour to her existing fashion offering.
She also confirmed plans to open a new store in Dubai in the near future.
For now, her stores remain in Malawi and the Netherlands, with the Gulf expansion set to mark her first venture into the Middle East.
