Twice the Fun!
with Playboy Africa November 2024 cover stars Mimi / @misses.mimi & Kiki Mayes / @kikimayes
Photographer Lucas Reid / @lukavellii
Makeup Artist Sasha Chapliuk / @Sasha_chapliuk
Hair Elsa Hailemariam / @lsu.suhairandbeauty
Mimi Mayes
Could you tell us a bit about yourself? I’m one half of “The Kimi Twins” podcast. I love books and staying active with yoga, hiking, and swimming. Family time is my favorite, and my daughter Suri is my ray of sunshine.
Can you give us a background on your career and where it all started? At 19, my twin sister and I jumped into the spa business, and it’s been an exciting journey ever since. We’ve grown from one location to three, focusing on creating relaxing and rejuvenating experiences for our clients. Our passion and teamwork have been key to our success and expansion.
What is the biggest misconception people have about you? People might catch a glimpse of my resting bitch face and assume I’m all about business, plotting to conquer the world with just one look. And okay, maybe I am! But once you get to know me, you’ll quickly discover I’m genuinely sweet, always wanting the best for everyone. Some say I’m “too nice,” but the truth is, I’m naturally this nice no faking here.
Do you have any hidden talents, if so, what is it? I really enjoy making tasty soups! As the saying goes, it takes a pure heart to make a good soup, and I’m just happy to be in the kitchen trying my best.
What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself? I’ve learned the value of setting boundaries for protection. Although assertiveness once felt uncomfortable, saying no is easy now, and I happily clear negativity for self-care.
In what ways do you use your platform to inspire or influence others? I use my platform to inspire others to passionately pursue their dreams without hesitation. Embrace who you truly are, regardless of others’ opinions. There is so much power in being yourself.
What message do you hope to convey through your work? I aim to inspire the belief that with courage and determination, any dream is within reach.
How do you prepare mentally and physically for a big photoshoot or event? Get ‘er done! Grab some fab outfits, embrace the chaos, and hope for the best.
When you’re not working, what helps you decompress and relax? When I’m not working, I love to unwind at Redox Sauna and Float Spa in Calgary it’s my cozy little escape.
What’s the strangest fan encounter you’ve ever had? I wouldn’t call it strange, but when my twin sister and I were at Fabutan, getting spray tans for our Playboy photoshoot, the manager came over, curious if we were going on vacation. We shared our photo shoot plans, and a nearby customer overheard us. This sweet gentleman got all excited and asked if he could snap a picture with us. He said he just had to tell his friend that he met real-life Playboy models! It was the cutest thing ever! It was such a sweet moment, and it made us smile.
If you were stranded on a deserted island with only one accessory, what would it be? A knife, because it would be invaluable for building shelter, hunting, and preparing food, making it an essential tool for survival.
What’s your go-to guilty pleasure snack? Oysters with a splash of Tabasco.
Thanks for taking the time to speak to us, do you have any last words or advice for our readers? Remember, not all stress is bad. Embrace the unexpected joys that come your way, as they often lead to the most rewarding experiences.
Kiki Mayes
Could you tell us a bit about yourself? I’m a shy Taurus who adores deep chats! I co-host the “Kimi Twins” podcast and run spa businesses with my twin. It’s all about good vibes and going with the flow.
Can you give us a background on your career and where it all started? At 19, my twin and I dove into the spa world, no experience, just vision! Now we mix biz with creative passions like modeling and our podcast.
What is the biggest misconception people have about you? People often judge me by my looks, seeing just the surface and missing my true depth. I love proving them wrong.
Do you have any hidden talents, if so, what is it? Being an empath, I have a special gift for sensing vibes, which not only helps me guide others towards their true purpose but also assists me in finding my own way.
What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself? Resilience is my superpower, guiding me through challenges and helping me find inner peace and love.
In what ways do you use your platform to inspire or influence others? Through love, beauty, and human connection. On “The Kimi Twins” podcast, we chat about mental health, politics, social issues, and relationships. We celebrate self-love and share relationship ideals, making every conversation meaningful and fun.
What message do you hope to convey through your work? Live your truth! Let your inner wisdom guide you to unlock endless possibilities.
How do you prepare mentally and physically for a big photoshoot or event? I crank up some hip-hop, bust a move, and make sure my curls are popping.
When you’re not working, what helps you decompress and relax? I love a warm bath with oils, soft lights, good tunes, and a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon.
What’s the strangest fan encounter you’ve ever had? A fan once started chatting with me, thinking I was my twin, all about our curly hair. Little did they know, my sister was right there, and when I pointed her out, we all burst into laughter.
If you were stranded on a deserted island with only one accessory, what would it be? My cute water bottle with a filter — gotta have fresh water.
What’s your go-to guilty pleasure snack? Artisanal cheeses and honey-roasted pistachios, yum.
Thanks for taking the time to speak to us, do you have any last words or advice for our readers? Keep your heart open and let the universe wow you with surprises.
