From Legacy to Legendary: Diana Kaumba + Margret Chola

Interview by Vanessa Coppes

Styling and Creative Direction by Diana Kaumba

Photography By Luxury Media Zambia

In this special Reinvention Issue of BELLA Magazine, I delve into the inspiring journey of Diana Kaumba, a New York City-based stylist whose ingenuity has transformed familial love into a global sensation. The Granny Series, launched in 2023, comes not just as an artistic endeavor, but as a powerful tool to take the internet by storm with its iconic imagery and vibrant storytelling.

As we spoke, Diana recounted the inspiration behind her project, a touching commemoration of her father on the second anniversary of his passing during a visit to Zambia. "I thought it would be fun to swap outfits with Mbuya and take pictures, since I hadn’t been able to wear all the high fashion pieces I brought with me on that trip," she shared. Little did Diana know, this playful endeavor with her grandmother, Margret Chola, would morph into a cultural phenomenon, casting her as a beloved global fashion icon.

The striking photos shared on the Instagram account @Legendary_Glamma radiate life and personality through the intentional use of bright colors and Margret’s undeniable flair. The simple elegance of these images captured my heart and inspired a deeply personal connection. I shared with Diana that they reminded me of my own grandmother, who, even as she struggled with Alzheimer's, always took pride in her appearance. Fashion and beauty became our language of love, a legacy of "always looking ready" passed down through the generations, echoing in my work and life.

For Diana, this moment in her career goes beyond styling—it embraces a broader mission. "This special moment has allowed me to use my gifts for something much bigger than a mere styling session," Diana said. She resonates with knowing the legacy she’s becoming a part of, particularly among the granddaughters who now seek her artistic touch for shoots with their beloved grandmothers. Together, they bridge familial ties, showing the world that our elders hold vast beauty and wisdom that continues to inspire.

Diana's ambition with The Granny Series is clear—to illustrate that aging is filled with stories worth telling and, crucially, to underscore the importance of “leaving a legacy.”

For more on Diana Kaumba and The Granny Series, connect with her work at @TheVintagePoint_ and @Legendary_Glamma.