In brief
Margret Chola, in her mid-80s, has achieved viral fame as "Legendary Glamma" through her glamorous photoshoots with granddaughter Diana Kaumba. Her vibrant outfits, inspired by the Granny Series, celebrate both fashion and the bond between generations, accumulating a following of 225,000 on Instagram.
In rural Zambia, an 80-year-old grandmother, Margret Chola, has unexpectedly become a fashion icon and social media sensation, affectionately known as "Legendary Glamma." Her rise to fame began when her granddaughter, Diana Kaumba, a New York City stylist, encouraged her to try on various high-fashion outfits. With 225,000 followers on Instagram, Ms. Chola has captured hearts with her vibrant and daring style.The Granny Series, conceived in 2023, was birthed during a meaningful visit to Zambia to honor the memory of Diana's late father, who inspired her keen sense of fashion. During this visit, Diana asked her grandmother, or "Mbuya," to model her curated outfits, resulting in an engaging blend of traditional and contemporary fashion. Margret, ever willing, embraced the opportunity, exclaiming that dressing up made her feel young and empowered.The duo's photogenic adventures take place in the village of 10 Miles, close to Lusaka, where Ms. Chola is styled against picturesque rural backdrops. The series gained momentum in April 2024, particularly after a striking photoshoot featuring a red Adidas dress and bold accessories garnered thousands of likes and comments within minutes.Emphasizing her eclectic fashion choices, Ms. Chola dons everything from Zambian flag-inspired outfits to stylish wigs, all imbued with personal significance. Each photoshoot not only showcases her fashion but also highlights elements of her life, like clinging to symbols of her heritage, such as the "ibende" stick used for pounding crops.Diana's goal with the Granny Series extends beyond mere aesthetics; she aims to highlight the importance of cherishing older generations. The impact of Mbuya’s newfound fame is profound, as they share moments that bridge the gap between their ages and experiences. With several granddaughters hiring Diana to style their own grandmothers, the movement aims to foster appreciation for the wisdom and beauty found in older individuals.As Margret reflects on her life journey, including the challenges she has overcome, she stresses the message of self-forgiveness and empowerment. Through the Granny Series, "Legendary Glamma" continues to inspire many, proving that age is no hindrance to creativity, joy, or style. With the continued support and affection from fans worldwide, Ms. Chola is living her life to the fullest, reveling in her unexpected role as a beacon of beauty and resilience.
