Naomi Campbell, the iconic supermodel and now a proud new mother, has carved an illustrious 35-year career in the fashion industry, remaining a dominant force at the age of 50. Renowned for her trailblazing runway appearances and numerous high-profile endorsements, Campbell continues to captivate audiences globally with her enduring charm and elegance.
Despite her relentless schedule, which includes recent engagements like closing Fendi’s spring 2021 couture show and starring in campaigns for Nars and Burberry, Campbell values her moments of tranquility. For over two decades, she has found solace in her villa in Malindi, Kenya, overlooking the serene Indian Ocean. This haven, characterized by its seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces and soothing earth tones, offers Campbell a retreat from the bustling cities of London and New York, where she divides her time.
Malindi holds a special place in Campbell’s heart, initially captivating her during visits in the mid-1990s. The town’s allure, akin to a slice of Italy in East Africa with its Italian-speaking locals, provides Campbell with a sanctuary for relaxation and introspection. Her villa, nestled within a luxury resort, features a saltwater pool that extends from the living room, perfect for morning swims, and twin pergolas draped in voile for intimate family dinners.
The villa’s architecture, with its vaulted ceilings and makuti thatched roof—a traditional East African craftsmanship using coconut palm leaves—exemplifies the region’s rich cultural heritage. Campbell proudly showcases Moroccan and Egyptian lanterns, alongside handcrafted furniture sourced from across Africa, including Senegal, Marrakech, and Cairo. Her admiration for African artistry extends to local craftsmanship in Malindi, evident in meticulously carved wooden doors and stunning tableau maps by renowned artist Armando Tanzini.
Beyond her villa, Campbell cherishes memories of Kenya’s natural splendor, from dining on sandbanks in the Indian Ocean to witnessing the Great Migration during safari expeditions. Recently appointed as Kenya’s tourism ambassador, she aims to spotlight the diverse beauty and cultural richness of all 54 African nations. For Campbell, Africa holds an enchanting allure, each country offering its own unique magic that she is eager to celebrate and promote.
In essence, while Naomi Campbell continues to shine on the global stage, her retreat in Malindi symbolizes a cherished escape, where she finds peace amidst the beauty and cultural heritage of East Africa. Her commitment to using her influence to amplify Africa’s allure underscores her deep connection to the continent and its people, marking a profound chapter in her remarkable journey.