Days after stepping onto the AMVCA red carpet in Nguni cowhide to honour her Zulu roots, South African influencer Ashley Brylnn Ogle returned with a different kind of tribute – this time to Nigeria. And her parting words were pure gratitude.
In a sunlit hallway, barefoot and leaning against a white wall, Ashley wore a modern take on Igbo traditional bridal attire: a short black velvet mini‑dress cut from Isiagu fabric woven with iconic gold lion‑head motifs. Off‑the‑shoulder and asymmetrical, it featured a long detachable train panel.
But the real statement was her coral – a multi‑layered chunky choker, four thick waist beads, bracelets, an anklet, and coral woven into her low braided bun. The orange‑red beads against black‑and‑gold Isiagu are the exact palette of an Igbo bride.
Then came her message. Despite a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks against African immigrants in her home country, Ashley chose only warmth. She wrote:
“Nigeria, thank you for the love, warmth, and unforgettable memories. My heart is so full, and I’m leaving with nothing but gratitude. Signing out….Chioma.”
With that single word – Chioma (“Good God”) – she gave herself an Igbo name, a quiet act of cross‑cultural embrace. No heels, no designer train – just barefoot respect.
A Zulu woman honouring Nigeria, one coral bead at a time. And leaving with a full heart and a new identity.
