Shaun Stylist talks about fatherhood, his relationship with Mamkhize and releasing music

Shaun Andile Naki, popularly known as Shaun Stylist, is gearing up to release his first body of work as an artist after signing with Warner Music Africa recently and plans to go international with his brand.

Shaun kick-started his career in the entertainment industry as a fashionista styling the most prominent stars, but he has since cemented his name as an MD of a construction company, an ambassador for the Royal AM soccer team, a philanthropist, producer, DJ and singer.

“One thing that Covid-19 has taught me is that you need to evolve as a person and not do one thing because the world can crumble in front of your eyes. So the evolution from fashion to music was something I felt was a good move for me,” he told TshisaLIVE.

In December 2022, Shaun married his longtime partner Anele and they have since started their family, raising their newborn son Mason. Though he might have his hand in different baskets, requiring him to travel across South Africa almost weekly, he says the greatest role he assumed was becoming a husband and a father.

“It's amazing but demanding. Sometimes it has a bit of a pinch on my wife, who stays in Durban, but I try to make sure I make time for my family, it's very important. I am on a new journey and I'm loving every moment of it.”

Shaun says he prefers to lead a private life.

“It's more about doing meaningful things now than just being out there. My wife and I have been together for the longest time. It's just that I am not public about my relationship. I've learnt my mistake from the past and decided to keep my relationship private from social media.

“I've been in a good and healthy relationship with her. God has blessed me with the most humble and understanding woman that gives me support beyond unreasonable doubt. I have toned down on the socials. Being a father hasn't changed much of me but elevated my thoughts and thinking when doing things.”

Having been mentored by businesswoman Shauwn “Mamkhize” Mkhize, who he considers to be his mother, Shaun says he wants to mirror how she's managed to build an empire, give back and prioritise family. Shaun met Mamkhize when he styled her son Andile Mpisane for the Durban July five years ago and has been a part of her family ever since.

“I want to grow with the culture and give a chance to the younger artists. I feature four unknown artists, who have done so much on the ground, and I just want to give them a platform. I want to give them the shine that Mamkhize gave me. What I have been given and offered, I'd like to share with other people.

“I've been in the industry and doing amazing things on my own. But a good brand elevates when brands collaborate. Through the loyalty and obedience I've given to Mamkhize she saw that I cannot only be her son's stylist but can be her son's older brother. Now, Mamkhize is my mother, whether it's by blood, home affairs or anything. She is my mother. She is the mother of the nation.”

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