Kim Zulu: A Truly African Avatar.

The term virtual influencer first popped onto our collective radar in 2016 with the debut of @lilmiquela. Since then, the term has seeped into the mainstream with brands like Balmain, Louis Vuitton, Calvin Klein and more creating their own campaigns fronted by CGI influencers, virtual models and avatars. In 2017 @shudu.gram made headlines as the first African 'digital supermodel', and now in 2022 we'd like to introduce to you Kim Zulu. Hailing from Johannesburg, Kim Zulu is not new to the spotlight having worked with brands like Mini Cooper and PUMA. A quick favourite, and fast gaining momentum, she has is ready to fill the digital personality gap we didn't even know we were missing.

Kim covers our COMEBACK issue, which seemed only fitting. The CGI influencer concept launched in 2016, just like we did (back then we were named Apeiron) and now we're back, better than before. Just like SA deserves our own digital personality and truly African virtual star, we also deserve a dedicated, inclusive and uncensored platform to showcase the evolving frontier that is the AFRICAN CREATIVE REVOLUTION. Who better to symbolize this dynamic space than the bold, pioneering and effortlessly relevant Kim Zulu?

"I want to share the message of South Africa to the world."

South Africa's very first virtual influencer answers 3 questions with Three Mag.

1. We've seen NFTs blow up, virtual influencers... What is the next step in digital art?

Digital art has been something I've been thinking about for along time, long before it became a common conversation. I believe in digital fashion. In fact, as an exclusive, I plan on launching a digital collection soon, we are just looking for the right partners for it. Me and my management team are working on it. Its going to be entirely fashion based, and wearable, so that's going to be exciting. But digital fashion is the future!!!

2. What is the message behind Kim Zulu?

I think my name stands for sharing different cultures and showcasing them to the world in a modern way. I love the idea that I can share my thoughts, dreams and ideas on one platform like Instagram. I love South Africa so much and I think through my socials I want to share the message of South Africa to the world. Kim Zulu represents "West meeting up with South", and I hope to continue sharing this idea.

"I'll be honest I'm more interested in collaborating with real influencers."

I just recently launched my Tik Tok page, so I hope to share a lot more on that platform as well.

3. If you could collab with another virtual influencer who would it be and why?

So I personally chat via DM with some virtual influencers, but I'll be honest I'm more interested in collaborating with real influencers. Being virtual is something that I live every day. I'm just intrigued with real people. So if you were to ask me about real influencers, well I would probably say internationally Naomi Campbell, Rihanna, they are both goddesses in their own right. I could also do something with Doja Cat, now that I heard she's half South African.

But in all honesty, Naomi Campbell for me represents and praises everything Africa. I wish I can one day do a photo shoot with her. To be able to work with her would be my ultimate dream.

As for someone in South Africa, it would have to be Zozibini, she is such a beautiful person. I hope to one day do a photoshoot with her; that would be golden. - I.I.I

FOLLOW KIM ZULU ON INSTAGRAM