In the heart of Washington, D.C., Mbiye Kasonga is making waves not just in the podcasting world, but also in the fashion scene. As the producer behind the acclaimed Naked Beauty podcast, Mbiye has carved out a niche for herself, blending her Congolese heritage with a bold, vibrant style that turns heads. Her journey from marketing to media is as inspiring as her fashion choices, proving that passion and authenticity can lead to remarkable success.
Mbiye’s story is one of self-discovery and reinvention. After working in market research and business school, she found her true calling in digital media. Her unique approach to style and her ability to connect with people through her podcast have made her a standout figure in both the fashion and media landscapes.
From Marketing to Media: A Career Transition
Mbiye’s career began in the world of marketing, where she honed her skills in market research. However, her passion for digital media was always simmering beneath the surface. During the pandemic, she found herself with extra time on her hands and decided to pursue her interest in podcasting. What started as a hobby producing her friend Brooke’s podcast, Naked Beauty quickly turned into a full-fledged career.
For two years, Mbiye juggled her full-time marketing job with producing the podcast. But in December, her husband’s words of encouragement pushed her to take the leap and start her own agency, Moyo. Today, she runs a successful team, producing award-winning content that has earned two iHeartRadio awards for ‘Best Beauty & Fashion Podcast.’ Her journey is a testament to the power of believing in oneself and taking risks.
A Style That Speaks Volumes
Mbiye’s fashion sense is as vibrant and dynamic as her personality. Drawing inspiration from her Congolese roots, she embraces bright colors and bold patterns, creating looks that are both eye-catching and meaningful. ‘I’m always chasing that feeling of walking down the street and having someone do a double-take at my outfit,’ she says. Her style is a reflection of her confidence and individuality, making her a true fashion icon.
One of Mbiye’s favorite pieces is a dress from Mara Hoffman that she wears for all-day adventures. Perfect for brunch dates or solo outings to read at restaurants, this dress is both practical and stylish. With huge pockets for her essentials, it’s a go-to for her busy lifestyle. Another standout piece is a Dôen dress that she transforms into a top by pairing it with cutoffs from Warp + Weft. This creative approach to fashion showcases her ability to make the most of her wardrobe.
Knitting: A Connection to Her Past
In addition to her love for fashion, Mbiye has a deep appreciation for the art of knitting. Taught by her sister, who learned from their late mother, knitting is a way for Mbiye to feel connected to her heritage. ‘When you lose your parent as a child, you lose the opportunity to do things with them. But knitting is my way of feeling close to my mom,’ she shares. This personal touch adds another layer to her unique style, making her a true inspiration in the world of fashion and self-expression.
Literary Passions and Community Building
Mbiye’s love for literature is another facet of her multifaceted personality. As a child, she was an avid reader, often checking out more books than the library allowed. This passion for reading has evolved into a love for community building. She used to host social reading events at Shanklin Hall a Black-owned bar, where people could come together to discuss their favorite books. ‘My whole thing is, I just want to connect with people over books in the same way that we connect over reality TV,’ she says. Her top book club picks include My Sister, the Serial KillerThe Office of Historical Corrections and Homegoing.
Mbiye Kasonga’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, authenticity, and self-belief. From her vibrant fashion choices to her successful career in podcasting, she continues to inspire and connect with people in meaningful ways. Her story reminds us that embracing our unique qualities and pursuing our passions can lead to extraordinary achievements.
