A rural grandmother in Zambia has unexpectedly become a fashion sensation and an internet celebrity after embracing her granddaughter's wardrobe and participating in a dress-up session. Margret Chola, affectionately known as "Legendary Glamma," is in her mid-80s and has captured the hearts of 225,000 Instagram followers with her vibrant and playful fashion photos.

The story of Margret Chola is one of unexpected transformation and joy, proving that age is just a number when it comes to embracing one's true self and finding happiness. Her journey from a rural grandmother to a global fashion icon has not only brought her personal fulfillment but has also inspired countless individuals around the world to challenge societal norms and celebrate individuality.

The Birth of the Granny Series

The Granny Series, which is published every two weeks, was initiated in 2023 by her granddaughter, Diana Kaumba, a New York City-based stylist. The concept emerged during a visit to Zambia by Kaumba to commemorate the second anniversary of her father's passing—the individual she credits with igniting her passion for fashion due to his impeccable dressing sense.

Diana Kaumba's career as a stylist has been shaped by her father's influence, and she sought to honor his memory by creating something meaningful with her grandmother. The series began as a way to preserve memories and celebrate her grandmother's spirit, but it quickly evolved into a global phenomenon.

The First Photoshoot: A Moment of Connection

While in Zambia, Kaumba, who hadn't worn all of her meticulously selected outfits, proposed to her grandmother—if she would like to try them on. "I was idle at the time, so I agreed: 'Alright. If that's what you wish to do, let's do it—why not?'" Margret Chola recounted.

"You will miss me when I'm gone, and this way, you'll remember me," she added.

Kaumba, envisioning dressing her grandmother in high fashion and capturing her in her natural environment, decided to photograph her. That environment is a farm in the village of 10 Miles, located just north of Lusaka, Zambia's capital. Margret Chola is often pictured outdoors in her glamorous attire, frequently seated on an elegant wooden chair or reclining on a leather sofa, with a backdrop of rustic brick buildings, corrugated iron roofs, cultivated fields, mango trees, and maize crops.

The Unexpected Success: A Viral Sensation

"I was incredibly anxious when I posted that first photo. I stepped away from my phone for 10 minutes, and in that short time, there were already 1,000 likes," Kaumba recalls. "I was astounded. Comments were pouring in, and people were clamoring for more."

The Granny Series gained significant momentum in April 2024 after Kaumba uploaded a series of photos featuring her grandmother in a red Adidas dress, adorned with several chunky, golden necklaces and a sparkling jeweled crown.

Margret Chola's Transformation: Empowerment and Joy

"I feel rejuvenated and invigorated in these outfits, in a manner I've never experienced before," Margret Chola shares. "I feel empowered, as if I could take on the world!"

Margret Chola is seen posing in a mix of attires that are characterized by their vivid colors, textures, and styles. From a green American football jersey paired with a layered, frilly red dress styled as a skirt in the colors of the Zambian flag to celebrate 60 years of independence, to a blue, black, and green sequined top, accessorized with a golden snake necklace and bracelet. And Mbuya's personal favorite—a pair of jeans, a graphic T-shirt featuring her image, and a blonde wig.

"I had never worn jeans or a wig before—so I was delighted, and I was dancing," she shares.

The Stylist's Perspective: Diana Kaumba's Vision

Kaumba, who has been a stylist since 2012, praises her grandmother for her "courage, grace—and for nailing every look." The ensembles reflect a maximalist-chic aesthetic, celebrating the joy of excess, eclectic combinations, the grand and the bold, and clashing patterns and colors. Central to these looks are eye-catching accessories—bold sunglasses, oversized hats, necklaces, bracelets, pendants, rings, gloves, bags, blonde wigs, crowns.

This influence stems directly from her grandmother, who has "always been fond of pearls and bangles." In one particularly playful scene titled GOAT—short for greatest of all time—Margret Chola appears with a goat, which is adorned in Mbuya's cherished pearls.

Personal Accessories: Symbols of Identity and Narrative

Other accessories also mirror Chola's personality and narrative. In some shots, Mbuya is seen holding her beloved radio, which she carries with her all day and even takes to bed. Or she's clutching an "ibende"—a long wooden stick used over the years for pounding millet, cassava, or maize. She might be smoking a pipe or holding a metal cup filled with tea, with an "mbaula" or charcoal brazier hanging off the chair arm, a common sight in Zambia due to the country's ongoing power cuts.

The Broader Impact: Inspiring Others and Challenging Societal Norms

Kaumba hopes that the Granny Series will underscore that older individuals still have much to contribute and that creating memories together is a vital way to "leave footprints for future generations." "Do not discount them, love them just the same until the end, because remember, we will one day be like them," she advises.

As a result of Mbuya's photoshoots, Kaumba has been engaged by four granddaughters to style their grandmothers, aged between 70 and 96.

Margret Chola aspires for the Granny Series to inspire individuals "to live their lives without worrying about societal judgment." She encourages people to "always forgive yourself for any mistakes you've made. You can't change your past—but you can shape your future."

Strengthening Bonds: The Grandmother-Granddaughter Connection

The photoshoots have strengthened the bond between granddaughter and grandmother, and through this unique connection, Kaumba has gained a deeper understanding of her Mbuya's often challenging life.

Margret Chola was raised by her grandparents, attended school until the age of 12 or 13, and then, due to financial constraints, was compelled to marry a man in his 30s. She had three children, struggled with alcohol, and ultimately escaped the marriage.

The trauma still lingers, but her unexpected global fame has provided her with a renewed sense of purpose. "I now wake up with a purpose, knowing that people around the world enjoy seeing me," Chola says.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Joy and Empowerment

Margret Chola's journey from a rural grandmother to a global fashion icon is a testament to the power of self-expression, family bonds, and the joy of living life to the fullest at any age. Her story continues to inspire and bring joy to people worldwide, proving that fashion and happiness know no bounds.