Nomzamo Mbatha, the first-ever South African ambassador for Creme of Nature

By Temo Mpodi

Award-winning actress, humanitarian, beauty icon and now the face of Creme of Nature. Nomzamo Mbatha has been officially named the first-ever South African ambassador for Creme of Nature, the iconic American-born ethnic haircare brand with over 65 years of legacy. Ooh, Zamo! She keeps on winning, and winning and winning. But what else would you expect from a star.  

The hair

Creme of Nature has expanded into the South African market marking a powerful new chapter for the iconic hair brand. “Creme of Nature, Rooted in Radiance. Your Roots, Your Radiance” is a call to celebrate textured hair and our African roots. It’s more than a tagline; it’s a movement. At its core lies a bold truth: hair is more than just strands; it is a legacy, an identity, and a radiant symbol of confidence. “Nomzamo embodies the essence of our Rooted in Radiance message,” says Zandi Zinganto, brand manager for Creme of Nature South Africa. “She is powerful, graceful, and celebrates African authenticity in all expressions of her brand image. Her partnership with us is not just another beauty campaign, but an ode to celebrating authentic African beauty, culture, and the beauty of textured hair in women.”

Best known for her starring role in Coming 2 America and her turn as Nandi in Shaka iLembe, now on for its second season, Nomzamo is excited to enter a new chapter of her career. “I am incredibly honoured to be the first African face of Creme of Nature. This partnership is not just a personal milestone; it signifies a broader celebration of African identity and culture,” says Nomzamo. “Creme of Nature understands and embraces the unique beauty of diverse hair textures, empowering women like me to showcase our authentic beauty proudly. A brand needs to resonate with the diverse experiences of women, and this collaboration highlights our strength, individuality, and heritage. Together, we can redefine beauty standards and inspire countless women to love and celebrate their authentic selves.”

The beauty

Nomzamo is big on skin and takes well care of her skin. She became an ambassador for Neutrogena in 2015, smashing the glass ceiling as the first South African to represent the brand. She just keeps on hitting firsts. Not only is she beautiful, Nomzamo exudes poise, kindness, courage and confidence which is why they were proud to have Nomzamo as a Neutrogena ambassador.

The fashion

Nomzamo brought her own style to PUMA, embracing her authenticity and the uniqueness she carries. She collaborated with the brand to launch her Shandu Collection, which, just like everything else she does, it was loved by the masses. Naturally, they couldn’t get enough Nomzamo and, just few months after the Shandu collection, they dropped the second collaborative collection which paid homage to her family name.

The care

Nomzamo also uses her voice for the power good cheerleading causes closest to her heart, In 2019, she was appointed UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador. In fact, she has been involved the agency since 2017 actively supporting their LuQuLuQu campaign, raising awareness for those forcibly displaced in Africa. She’s also an Earthshot Prize Ambassador for her work in climate change and sustainability and is a Global Citizen Ambassador.

Nomzamo is a powerhouse, she transcends even beyond just hair, fashion and beauty. It’s always authenticity and staying true to who you are, and aligning perfectly with what is best for you that are key when building a personal brand.

Crème of Nature is available at Clicks, Dis-Chem, TakeAlot and Amazon and will launch in Checkers in July 2025.