265 Chills dresses Malawian stars
It is not unusual to see celebrities dressed in locally inspired 265 Chills fashion label.
Rapper Tay Grin, content creator Tamia Ja, event host and television personality Super DT, tik-toker Cecy and musician Leslie have been spotted wearing clothes designed by 265 Chills.
The brains behind the label Hastings Chitanda alias Heys said introduction to the fashion merchandise is a continuation of the work he is doing through his podcast channel, 265 Chills, in promoting the Malawian narrative to the world.
Speaking in an interview yesterday, Heys said they have used the podcast to disseminate information on Malawi’s agricultural strides, travel, women empowerment and education.
He said: “The podcast was meant to give something to Malawians something to be proud and part of. The 265 is the country code for Malawi and chills means some relaxed chatting and that is what we do on the podcast platform as we dissect important issues.
“The merchandise we have developed is meant to give the followers and fans a sense of belonging and pride to be identifying with Malawi.”
Heys is currently producing designer T-shirts and hoodies which are available in Mzuzu, Lilongwe, Blantyre and South Africa. He said he is grateful for the support his venture has received.
“The response has been amazing and I am so grateful to the influential personalities that have supported me. Their association with the brand has helped in increasing its visibility and awareness,” he said.
In a separate interview, Leslie commended Heys for the venture, saying that it has given motivation to other people to amplify their voices beyond the podcast forum.
She said: “It is actually good that he saw an opportunity beyond the podcast platform. The work he is doing on his channel is wonderful. His approach is unique and there are so many youths out there who want to associate with the brand.”
