Afrika Design: Creative Tour of Africa

This week, we talk to Newton Chege—the Creative Director at Gallexia Kenya. Gallexia Kenya is a brand company whose work is focused on generating impactful and influential content, designs, and strategies that strengthen and elevate the brands. He highlights success stories that show how one needs to embrace current events, current technologies within their work to be ahead of the curve. Tune in to find out what tips he shares to succeed when it comes to content creation and working with brands. This is the 25th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. LinkedIn: Newton Chege Website: Gallexia Kenya Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/newton-chege

What’s the difference between a dentist and a dental technologist? It’s not their smile 🤣 In this episode, we meet Melanie Walch—founder of Simba Smile Limited. She is a dental technologist with experience in several CAD CAM laboratories in Nairobi, where she extensively developed her capacity and expertise in CAD CAM systems. She shares her thoughts on digitization of the medical sector, specifically dentistry. She argues that complete digitization of the medical field should take center stage as our health is the most important aspect of our lives. She shares vital knowledge on how oral health impacts our overall wellbeing. From physical to mental wellbeing, tune in to find out your oral health is more important that you may think. This is the 24th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Instagram: @ simbasmile Website: Simbadent Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/melanie-walch

In this episode, we are joined by Ladouce Nadabha who is one of the co-founders of The Art Carte—which is a lifestyle brand that blends art and functionality to create unique stationery, greeting cards and home goods; inspired by nature and culture. She works with her sister Nadine. Ladouce tells us what it takes to go global. Are there specific tools or platforms? Do I have to go digital? Where do I find these opportunities? These are some of the questions you may be asking yourself. Tune In to find out how to transcend the local market. This is the 23rd episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Instagram: @ the.art.carte Website: The Art Carte Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/going-global

36 days of action featuring 36 concerts in 6 continents with Yo-Yo Ma. In this episode, we discuss The Bach Project that featured the legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma— an event that would explore how culture connects us. Yo-Yo began this journey across the world in 2018, however, it was interrupted by the pandemic in 2020. We are joined by Peter Holmes à Court who is the Senior Convener at Afrika House, the team that facilitated the project in Nairobi. Peter breaks down what they did to host Yo-Yo Ma in Kenya but also turning that performance into a festival that went beyond its original scope. He also shares the motivations of the teams that brought the project together including the artists that created the posters for the project. Find out how Nairobi ended up being the final stop of the tour.  This is the 22nd episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Instagram: @ afrika.housekenya Website: Afrika House                The Bach Project Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/the-bach-project

In this episode, we meet Nyandia Kamawe— a fine arts graduate with a specialty in graphic design. She is the founder of MokoMaya which deals with products that are hand-made. The name MokoMaya comes from kikuyu Moko: hands and Maya: these. So, ‘these hands.’ She talks us through her journey from Kenya to Atlanta and back. The shares the different perspectives and challenges of being a designer in these places, how she has overcome her doubts, and how she learned to trust the journey. She encourages us to trust in the experiences we have had no matter how insignificant they may seem at the time. These experiences will pay off. It’s never too late. This is the 21st episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Instagram: @ _mokomaya LinkedIn: Nyandia Kamawe Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/nyandia-kamawe

In this episode, we are joined by Gift Kyansimire and Derrick Kinyeki from Inkspace Bureau. They are the only Stop Motion studio in Kenya responsible for the film—The Big Sad Nairobi. The film is about a goat that personifies human interactions and emotions while trying to become a better person. This film was first showcase at the Nairobi Design Festival. They take us through the process of how they made the film and what drives them to use stop motion in storytelling. According to Gift, it is vital to use what you have available to you rather than waiting to get expensive equipment and tools that you might think are needed to tell a story. This is the 20th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Inkspace Bureau IG: @inkspace_bureau IG: Gift Kyansimire aka zordfiles Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/inkspace-bureau

“Do what you love and you never have to work a day in your life.” This week we meet Brian Omolo, a self-employed illustrator and artist who is determined to make design not feel like work. He walks us through his journey of how his work has evolved from just drawing and painting on paper but also his shift to digital where he was able to further develop the quality of his designs and better yet, increase his reach. He is also a lecturer at ADMI, Africa Digital Media Institute, working primarily in the design department teaching a variety of units that prepare students for the world of Art and Design. He teaches the importance of trying different things, being organized, and ensuring the creation of an environment where people feel comfortable to contribute. If you work with layers, do you name them? This is the 19th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Instagram: @obrianstudio LinkedIn: Brian Omolo Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/brian-omolo

How do you take your business idea to market? In this episode, we congratulate one of the winners of the What Design Can Do: Make it Circular challenge—Rethread Africa; who are developing the technology to turn agricultural waste into biodegradable textile fabric. In November 2022, a group of university students came together to change the world. Charles Oyamo and Mitesh Varsani from Rethread join us to share their experience, goals, and the challenges they faced along the way. Their strategy involves working with using existing materials and resources in order to free up more land for food production and by extension reducing the reliance on unsustainable synthetics. We are also joined by Benjamin Barwa— a project management and SME advisory expert, who shares insights on how to get ideas and concepts to market. His mission is to assist start-ups such as Rethread Africa to flourish and understand the commercial landscape which is often lacking among entrepreneurs. Are you looking to start your own business? This is the 18th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Rethread Africa Website: https://rethread.africa Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC) Website: https://www.kenyacic.org What Design Can Do (WDCD) Website: https://www.whatdesigncando.com LinkedIn: Charles Oyamo                  Mitesh Varsani                  Benjamin Barwa Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/wdcd-rethread-africa

Earth day, Woodstock concert, Vietnam war, Hippies…what do they have in common? The Peace Symbol. The infamous peace symbol is one of many. It was designed not for peace but for nuclear disarmament. This was after the devastation that the first and second world war brought upon the world especially in Europe. Many were tired of the conflict which never seemed to have an end in sight. The general sentiment at the time was “this has to stop!”. The destruction being caused was not just affecting human beings but also the planet. Naitiemu shares the history around peace symbols and how this positive message was transmitted between cultures through design. We explore peace symbols in East Africa, West Africa and the world. Which symbols of peace are you familiar with? This is the 17th episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Naitiemu’s Website: https://www.naitiemu.com Adrian Jankowiak’s Website: https://www.adrianjankowiak.com Seven Symbols of Peace: https://7symbolsofpeace.com IG & Twitter: nairobidesign_ Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/peace-love-design

This week, we are thrilled to welcome Jonathan Kasumba, an automotive designer, and the visionary behind the African Automotive Design Association. His mission is to shape the automotive design industry with a distinctive African identity. During our conversation, he delves into the intricate process that paves the way for a car to become a reality in the production world. Jonathan sheds light on the exciting developments happening across the continent, highlighting notable players like Kiira Motors in Uganda, BRANDT Automotive in South Africa, and the local gem, Mobius Motors in Kenya. He passionately discusses the vast opportunities for car ownership in Africa and emphasizes the importance of setting our own standards, custom-tailored to the continent's unique needs. As we delve deeper, we discover that automotive designers in Africa are embracing innovation. They're not solely fixated on traditional Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) but are also exploring electric and hydrogen solutions. Join us to explore the future of automotive design on the African landscape! This is the sixteenth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Blog: http://jonathan-kasumba.blogspot.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-kasumba Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/jonathan-kasumba

Discover the world of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality! Join us as we sit down with Walid Kilonzi, the extended reality producer at Fallohide Africa—a cutting-edge creative studio revolutionizing Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Mixed Reality solutions. Discover how AR, VR, and mixed reality transcend entertainment and find their real-world applications. From enhancing work environments to streamlining employee training, Walid shares captivating experiences from Kenya where extended reality is already making a significant impact. Moreover, Fallohide Africa's mission to craft original African realities that resonate with its people and support local enterprises in the digital frontier is truly inspiring. Prepare for an exciting exploration into the magic of extended reality and how it's shaping Africa's narratives and empowering its future! This is the fourteenth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Website: https://www.fallohide.africa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walidkilonzi Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/walid-kilonzi

Creativity changes the world! Join us this week as we dive into the mind of Lulu Kitololo—an artist, illustrator, and designer extraordinaire behind the captivating murals of Nairobi Street Kitchen. Discover how she is reshaping the narrative from "starving artist" to one of prosperity and fulfillment. As the visionary founder of Shine, Lulu is dedicated to empowering creatives to build thriving, sustainable, and joy-filled businesses. Her passion for teaching and fostering appreciation for the creative sector is at the core of her transformative program. Gain invaluable insights on how to not only survive but truly thrive in your design career or job. Prepare to be inspired and equipped with practical wisdom for success. Don't miss this enlightening episode that goes beyond work, addressing the vital importance of mental wellness for optimal productivity. Get ready to unlock your full creative potential and shine! This is the thirteenth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Website: http://www.lulukitololo.com/shine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lulukitololo/ Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/lulu-kitololo

Mass Timber! Let’s talk. We speak with Wekesa, an architect at BuildX, a firm dedicated to human-centered design solutions that prioritize environmental performance and local resources. In this episode, he sheds light on the environmental impact of traditional construction materials like concrete and steel, which contribute significantly to carbon emissions. He proposes a game-changing solution: incorporating Mass Timber into the construction process to reduce our carbon footprint. Wekesa emphasizes the need for a mindset shift regarding certain materials and highlights the potential of plantation forests as a sustainable resource. With Africa witnessing rapid urbanization, he urges us all to rethink our approach to construction. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn how you can contribute to building a better world. This is the twelfth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Website: https://www.buildxstudio.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wekesa-george Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/wekesa-george

What is the meaning or reason behind your name? Join us as we embark on a journey exploring the power of names. At the 2023 Nairobi Design Festival's Afrika Design booth, we invited our community to share the stories and meanings behind their names. We extend our sincere gratitude to all who took part. In this episode, expect a diverse array of names from various communities and continents, along with a special story from Abigail. Thank you for being a valued member of the Nairobi Design community. Your support is truly appreciated. Stay tuned and immerse yourself in the culture of naming! This is the eleventh episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. IG: @nairobidesign_ Website: nairobi.design              : afrika.design LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/afrika-design Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/the-power-of-names

Nazquiat gives Nigerian artifacts new life through his brilliant use of photography and digital art. Inatimi ‘Nazquiat’ Nathus is a digital artist and a prominent figure in the NFT space with his collections such as Afrotroves. Through his unique blend of photography and digital art, Nazquiat takes listeners on a thought-provoking journey, exploring the significance of Nigerian artifacts and their connection to personal identity. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that sheds light on the transformative power of art and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Tune in to learn about the intersection of art, culture, and technology in Nazquiat's creations. This is the tenth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. IG: @nazquiat Behance: Inatiminathus LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inatiminathus Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/inatimi-nathus

Her Mantra: Learn, learn, learn, and LEARN! In this episode, we meet Marynciana Adema, a multi-talented individual who defies stereotypes as a model, graphic designer, data analyst, and trained chef. Discover the unexpected steps she took to achieve success and her unique perspective on becoming a model. Marynciana also highlights the significance of empathy in our daily lives, enabling us to better understand and connect with others. Explore the intriguing traditional practices of the Luhyas, offering a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and a fresh outlook on personal growth and cultural exploration. This is the ninth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. IG: @cianna_lugasie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marynciana-adema Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/marynciana-adema

Why is it important to export Africa to the world? Hicham Lahlou is a brilliant Moroccan designer and artist who effortlessly combines tradition, modernity, and aesthetics in his mesmerizing works. He is the founder of Africa Design Award, Africa Design Days and Special Envoy & Regional Advisor for Mena Regions & Africa of the World Design Organization. Hicham’s work transcends boundaries, captivating audiences with his thought-provoking art installations and exhibitions. His vast African heritage serves as his source of inspiration. He highlights the importance of introducing the world to Africa, our concepts, and our creations. He goes on to emphasize the value of networking to discover people who will give you the opportunity to demonstrate your abilities. He encourages us to bond and help one another as Africans. He invites us to explore the transforming potential of African design and to embrace our individual artistic inclinations. Hicham Lahlou is a remarkable designer whose creations continue to transform how we view African art, culture, and design. Tune in to find out how we can grow African design beyond our borders! This is the eighth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. IG & Twitter: @hichamlahloudesigner Website: https://www.hichamlahlou.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hicham-lahlou African Generation: The Power of Design: African Generation - version anglaise: The power of Design Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/hicham-lahlou

How does design affect our perceptions in daily life? In this captivating episode, we welcome Leanne, a service designer at MarathonXP. Leanne shares her insights on the powerful influence of design on our daily perceptions. Join us as we explore how even the smallest design choices shape our emotions, behaviors, and well-being. Leanne's background in psychology adds depth to the discussion, emphasizing the importance of empathy and diversity in creating impactful solutions. Tune in now for a fresh perspective on the transformative power of design in our lives. This is the seventh episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Website: https://www.marathonxp.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanne-munyori Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/leanne-munyori

Discover what it takes to be successful in the fashion industry! Neema takes us into the world of fashion and her journey to the point where she launched her own company, Walove by Design. Her clothing line aims to empower women by assisting in the formation of a sisterhood centered on appreciation for women and their contributions. She draws attention to the difficulties faced in Kenyan and other African households where creative industries, such as fashion, are considered more as hobbies than as jobs that "put food on the table." She explores Taita beading tradition because it served as a major source of inspiration for her designs that reveal the creative process. This is the sixth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. IG & Twitter: @walovebydesign LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neema-walove Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/neema-walove

Sylvia walks us through the customs of the Luhya and explains how subtle rituals like naming are important for maintaining community harmony. She talks about her upbringing in the Marachi culture and her background. She emphasizes the necessity to return to earlier ways of doing things because they were sustainable by bringing up raw materials like papyrus as examples. She goes into great detail about the things that her culture and way of life gave her inspiration, demonstrating how old methods may still be employed in place of contemporary innovations like a refrigerator. She also imparts knowledge that her grandmother taught her and that she has used in both her personal and professional endeavors. This is the fifth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. IG: @ominaotsieno Website: https://ominaotsieno.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvia-omina-otsieno Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/sylvia-omina-otsieno

The future is ancient, says Kenneth, emphasizing the significance of combining historical knowledge into contemporary design processes. He contends that ideas like sustainability are nothing new and have existed for a very long time. In this episode, Kenneth discusses his creative process, which began with his father making many of the items the young boy wanted. From an early age, he had practical experience in product design and prototyping. He describes the characteristics of Afrikan design, some of the materials utilized in its production, and the ideas that went into it. This is the fourth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Twitter: @kanaabi_kenneth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-kanaabi Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/kenneth-kanaabi

This is the third episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. In this episode, we speak with Mathews Wakhungu, a researcher from the Bukusu community. He explains how cultural anthropology impacts our thoughts, actions, and design choices. We also learn about Kungu Labs, a research and design lab that uses ethnographic research for human-centered design and social impact innovation. Adrian invites us to consider a more holistic approach to design, focused on life-centered design. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on the intersection of cultural anthropology, design, and social impact. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Website: https://www.kungulabs.com Twitter: @kungulabs LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathews-wakhungu Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/mathews-wakhungu

We hope you’re onboard as we continue our creative tour of Afrika! This will be the second episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. In this episode, Tsedaniya Delnessa discusses the history of Manakristo Designs, a company devoted to using salvaged and recycled wood along with tried-and-true wood finishes to create beauty over time. She emphasizes both the financial and aesthetic aspects that allowed her to give purpose to her passion for restoring the past. She dives deep into her motivations for reclaiming the wood while also shedding light on the stories behind the myths and legends, around her community, that have shaped our cultures today.  *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Website: https://manakristodesigns.com IG: @manakristo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tsedaniya-delnessa Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/tsedaniya-delnessa

We are back on the tour of Afrika! This will be the first episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts. In this episode, Sharon Zarita takes us through her journey of becoming an Arts & Culture consultant. We talk about the exchange of cultural knowledge and ideas. Sharon elaborates about how her company, Sekoya East Africa, is an arts organization that serves emerging craft makers and creative professionals through creative skills development, promotion of their work and provision of peer mentorship. We also unpack the benefits of mental health support and how Sekoya can bridge the gap between education and the workplace. In her words ‘be the canopy for emerging artists.’ *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Website: https://sekoyaeastafrica.com IG: @sekoyaeastafrica LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/sharonzarita Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/sharon-zarita

This is a bonus episode of Afrika Design about circular design. It's in partnership with What Design Can Do and their 'make it circular' challenge. We discuss examples of design from all over the world and some specific ones from Kenya and Africa. There are examples of culture, nature, materials, storytelling, and even water preservation. We also discussed that sometimes the best design thinking comes from experts in fields other than design. Thank you to Esther Kute who joined us for the episode. You might recall Esther was our very first guest on the podcast and you can actually check out that conversation to hear her talk more in detail about her experience as a breakthrough product development manager at Bata. Happy Holidays! See you in 2023:) *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. Website: https://makeitcircular.whatdesigncando.com Music by: Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/make-it-circular

In this episode, we're off to Uganda. We have a conversation with the co-founder of Kafunda Kreative, which is a platform that connects creatives with markets to further their creative career. We discuss the challenges that creatives in Africa face and the possible solutions/steps that can be taken to elevate freelancers and those in the creative industry. He shares his life experiences and how they shaped the company and opened doors for not just him but others around him. He talks further about his main goal, which is to provide what he lacked as a creative to make it easier for those who come after him. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamogutudaudi Website: https://www.kafundakreative.com Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/david-ogutu

Welcome back to Afrika Design! We begin the next leg of our journey in Zimbabwe. This will be our first episode under the Shifting Narratives program supported by the British Council and in partnership with Kampala Design Week. In this episode, we talk with Dillion who is a social sculptor and the founder of Creative Nestlings; a design community comprised of Afrikans from across the continent. We discuss community, self, and what can and needs to be done for creatives to thrive in Afrika. Join us as we unpack what it means to a build community and grow the self. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dillionsphiri Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/dillion-phiri

Our next stop: Kenya. This episode took us in a nice full circle, with Prof. Mugendi K. M’Rithaa, who has been mentioned by several guests on the podcast. Prof. Mugendi K. M’Rithaa is a transdisciplinary industrial designer, consultant, educator, and researcher currently teaching at Machakos University, Kenya. He’s also the President Emeritus and Convenor of the Senate of the World Design Organization (WDO). He has a special interest in the pivotal role of design thinking in advancing the developmental agenda on the African continent. In this episode, he expounds on the co-creation of a new narrative of an emerging Africa. We talk about everything design from AI, Industrial Design, traditions, Afrika with a ‘K’, and how we can move away from a Euro-Centric view of Africa to finally embrace our identities and our uniqueness through a sense of ownership in our designs, culture, and traditions. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mugendi-kanampiu Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/mugendi-mrithaa

Choo chooooo, all aboard! Next stop is Nigeria with Ifeoma Dike, an art advisor and curator as well as the founder and CEO of IDDUK. Ifeoma intensively travels across Africa and the world to identify new talents, underrepresented artists, and spot collecting and investment opportunities. In this episode, we talk about pricing art for artists on different levels, digitization of art and emerging art tech, diversity in art, distribution, and collection, and more! *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ifeoma-dike Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/ifeoma-dike

Welcome to Episode 25 of Afrika Design: a creative tour of Afrika. Our next stop: Madagascar. Fenoson Zafimahova, a Lead Concept Designer, led the design of JBL portable speakers such as JBL Xtreme, Flip3 and Pulse 2. We discuss the creative process, AI in design, Malagasy culture, and the knowledge locals have about design. We also discuss the future of design and the biggest challenge facing designers, sustainability. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fenoson-zafimahova Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/fenoson-zafimahova

Welcome to Episode 24 of Afrika Design: a creative tour of Afrika. Our next stop: Zimbabwe. Osmond Tshuma takes us on a journey into language and how it can influence art within a culture. We also explore the 'Afrika - Love letters' project that celebrates African independence and uniqueness through typography. We dive deep into Zimbabwean languages and their connection with art and technology, and how design mistakes can become a tradition and even part of the culture. We also look at 'Nyami Nyami', part of Zimbabwean folklore, how it came about, and its influence on the local people.  *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/osmond-tshuma Website: https://mamgobozidesign.com Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/osmond-tshuma

Welcome to Episode 23 of Afrika Design: a creative tour of Afrika. Our next stop: Tanzania. Juliet Kavishe brings with her a wealth of experience as a professional Interior Architect born in Tanzania and raised in four countries on two continents. Her personal Design Motto is that impactful design is achieved once you consider the complexities and interrelationships of human beings and their surroundings. In this episode, she walks us through interior and architectural design and the changes that resulted from pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial influence. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/julietkavishe Website: herartfelt.com Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/juliet-kavishe

In this episode, we head off to Namibia to dive deep into its culture and indigenous knowledge. We examine how different communities approach life, done through a series of boot camps in the informal sector facilitated by UNDP and the Namibian Government. Omagano talks about the UNDP accelerator lab and how they work with market vendors to connect them to buyers through a digitized system during the pandemic. She further expands on some of the unique cultural differences found only in Namibia. Join us on this stop of our creative tour of Afrika to find out what they are. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3bmMkNW Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/omagano-kankondi

In this episode, our creative tour takes us to Eswatini through the lens of Senetisiwe's poem "Casted Silhouettes". A story of love expressed through poetry and performance art. Along the way, we'll discover the beauty of Eswatini and its culture, and uncover what it's like to be queer. We'll battle challenges associated with LGBTQ+ and queer love. Join us on this journey of expression. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. IG: @senetisiwe Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/senetisiwe-ginindza

Welcome to Season 2 of the Afrika Design Podcast. In this episode, Richie Moalosi, a professor in the Department of Industrial Design and Technology at the University of Botswana, takes us through the connection between culture and ergonomics in the design of products and services. We look at the impact that indigenous communities have in the creation process. Furthermore, we look at how cultural differences inform the design process and how ownership of projects impacts the long-term sustainability of the solutions proposed. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. IG: @richie.moalosi Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_) For the full episode transcript : https://www.afrika.design/richie-moalosi

Mutana Gakuru is a Kenyan creative based between Paris and Nairobi, and is the founder and creative producer of the African Fiction Academy; a hub for artistic innovation inspired by African cultural heritage. In this podcast he talks about the 'Sounds of Freedom', an audio film series that captures the lives and personal experiences of the young men and women who chose to fight for Kenya's independence. *For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones. IG: @soundsoffreedom_africa IG: @africadheritage Sounds Of Freedom Audio-Film : Producer - Victor Ndisya Executive producers - Mutana Wanjira & Chao Tayiana For the full episode transcript : https://www.afrika.design/mutana-gakuru

Fungi Dube is a scientist by training (BSc. Human Anatomy and Physiology & Biochemistry) and a Creative Solopreneur by calling. She is a strategic, intentional, calculated, and self-taught brand and visual identity graphic designer from Harare, Zimbabwe with 6 years of experience. In this podcast episode, she talks about one of her projects, Threads.  Threads is a visual journey through the writing and graphic systems embedded in African textiles. Check out her Behance page to learn more about the project: https://www.behance.net/gallery/123641221/THREADS IG: @fungidubegraphics Find the full transcript here: https://www.afrika.design/fungi-dube

When I started out as an artist, I had zero clue on how to exhibit my work and connect with clients. It is through a caring community of creatives, and my persistence to discover art spaces that I was able to get to know more. This is a common issue faced by majority of emerging artists. After all the hard work that goes into making these amazing creations, what next? Unboxed Africa Offers that solution . Gerald Gichuhi, founder and CEO, expounds on how they focus on discovering different artists, and working with them hand-in- hand to showcase, market and sell their creations. In this conversation, We delve into past and future projects. Including a blockchain system for artists that will help reduce plagiarism of artworks.  'That small opportunity that you give someone might just be the stepping stone they need to get somewhere...' Welcome to Afrika Design podcast; where we document stories from those making a difference in Africa.

Nyambura M. Waruingi creates, curates, and collaborates through various artistic expressions, bringing audiences unique ways to imagine new worlds. She's a filmmaker and curator passionate about combining art, design and technology. She pushes the frontier of what is possible through her creative enterprise Akoia & Co. by producing and curating projects, which merge cinema, visual arts, gaming, and immersive technologies. Nyambura joins us on Afrika Design to talk disruptive technologies, digital blackness, interdisciplinary processes and inclusivity for women.  "What I've been able to do is create on the edge of things, and that's what feels disruptive for people." "How do we include Africanness as part of the conversation on Digital Blackness?" "Women are not a monolith...you have to commit to the work of including women." Learn more about Nyambura and her work to "imagine radically" at: @nyambura_mw and @akoiaco.

"Skiza na Skika"–Skika Afrika is a platform for African creatives to boost their careers. "It's about being heard," says Founder Samantha Weya, which is why she created a meeting point where Africa's creatives can connect, find work, increase their visibility & upskill. For her, Skika pursues a balance between recognizing the narratives behind African stories, but also giving creatives the infrastructure to build sustainable creative careers. From portfolio curation to fan support, brand consulting and mental wellness, Skika Afrika is all-encompassing in its mission to amplify the voices of African creatives, allowing them to bring to the world a broader understanding of who Africans are. "The reason parents don't want you to go into creative industries is: Where is the money going to come from? How will you eat? How will you pay the bills?... But that's just a lack of there being enough sustainable industry." "How can you get connected and plugged into a creative community that enables you to create what you want?" "Our market needs to value our talent." "The creative industry needs to leverage financial security, and vice versa." By profession, Samantha Weya is an Actuarial Analyst. She brings her understanding of risk, insurance and financial security to the creative industry to emphasize how creatives can take care of each other and their work. Learn more about Samantha and Skika Africa here: https://beta.skikaafrika.com/ and follow the platform on instagram, facebook & twitter!

What makes a World Class Designer? There are designers who make things look better. There are designers who make things work better. Guidione Machava @guidione_machava is the designer who makes teams collaborate better. Guidione brings his experience as a Product Designer, Creative Leader, and Community Builder to this episode. From World Bank projects, scrappy startups, and non-profits across the continent, Guidione commits his time to systems, products and services that have a positive impact on people's lives. "Design is like sex... no one taught me, but I've learned." "Communication, community and collaboration...the first comes naturally to me, so the rest becomes easy." "When I say 'best designer' I'm not talking about craft...I'm talking about mindset." He is the author of “Design Sutra”, a collection of design principles for designers in the early stages of their careers. He founded the World-Class Designer School, home to the brightest design minds in Africa, supported by companies like Webflow, Framer, & Shopify; he also organised the World-Class Designer Conference, Africa's most diverse and inclusive design conference. Notable speakers included Debbie Millman, Marty Cagan, Randy Hunts and designers from Google, Facebook, Boeing, Visa & 40+ more. Guidione holds a degree in Economics from St. Thomas University in Mozambique and an ongoing Honours in Interaction Design by Open Window in South Africa. Learn more about Guidione and his work at https://guidionemachava.com/

Jesse Itemere @jesseitemere is the visual designer and illustrator behind the album artwork for Nairobi Yetu, a digital composition that memorializes and celebrates our city under the sun with typically "Nairobian" elements and symbols. In this episode, we discuss Jesse's background in Law & Development Studies, and passion for human-centered design, which brought to bear on the collective, creative process and style behind the resulting album cover.  "What makes Nairobi Nairobi?"  "The idea was... the roots of hip hop go back to New York, 1980s etc. What can we do to show that and how that could have influenced hip hop culture in Nairobi?" Nairobi Yetu is a debut album by producer and rapper Blocka Beats @blochains_blocka, and was the soundtrack to the NDW2021 online festival.

If all designers globally aspire to create the same aesthetic, how can our designs represent the cultures they come from? Batsirai Madzonga @batsimadz , designer of Sankofa Design System shares his inspirations & experiences. We discuss the process of creating, re-appropriating typography, iconography and color palettes and he talks about his mentor @sakimaf. “I took inspiration from nature, for example, fractals, and it was interesting to explore and create patterns and geometry in UI design.” “I’m trying to create digital experiences that users can easily connect with, because they seem familiar.”We used the Sankofa font as the display font for this year's Nairobi Design Week theme 'Together' 💚 Find more of his work at madzonga.com

Venuste Kubwimana is the President and Secretary General of the International Transformation Foundation (ITF), based in Kenya and Rwanda. The formation of ITF was inspired by his troubled youth during the Rwanda Genocide in 1994. He strives to make the world a better place for the youth through ITF.  He won Global Innovator of the Year Award 2018 at the 10th Anniversary AIDF Global Summit in Washington DC and his project ‘A Water Kiosk at School’ was named among the top 50 innovations at the Africa Innovation Summit 2018 in Kigali, Rwanda. This episode is part 5 of a 5 part series, in partnership with Open Design Afrika festival. Check out our new visual identity and website at www.afrika.design !

We talk through Brian’s experiences thus far in his career from internships to being part of a start-up.

Nsabimana Jean Claude is a visual artist and a contemporary storyteller. His interests lie in photography, film and video production and design. As a visual artist he believes one should be the voice for the voiceless. He uses his work as an activism tool. Jean Claude has won the Adobe Design Achievement Award in 2019 for Top Talent in Photography. He shares his upbringing, how living in 🇰🇪 Kenya and 🇿🇦 South Africa has influenced his life, the importance of storytelling about sustainability and more. This episode is part 3 of a 5 part series, in partnership with Open Design Afrika festival.

Her projects have informed thousands of girls on Menstrual Hygiene and new Menstrual Products. Benedicta Uweru is the founder @girls4developmentgoals , co-founder of @bennyandfreddylimited, a Supply Chain Pharmacist and Young Leader. She impacts communities through development projects around Sexual Reproductive Health  (SRHR) with a focus on: Teenage Pregnancy, Menstrual Hygiene, Nutrition, Education and Capacity Development. Benedicta tells stories from her childhood to how she has gone to inspire so many at such a young age, the value of design to her work and differences between cups and pads. This episode is part 2 of a 5 part series, in partnership with Open Design Afrika festival.

'Sun from Kibera' is the debut album from Phinoshey, a self taught producer, writer, and rapper from Kenya. His musical inspiration pulls from hip-hop, soul, and jazz. Kibera is the largest urban slum in Africa. We listen to the album with him and hear about the stories and relationships that influenced it, and his plans for the future. His friend and collaborator Brian Amimo, who helped to arrange the album, joins to give his inputs and stress the importance of classical music. Phinoshey is also the producer behind the 'Labelled Human' song that was written and recorded during Nairobi Design Week 2020.

Blessing is a Google Certified Educator, Founder of 'The Innovative Child Network' and Ambassador for HundrED.org, and still studying for her Undergraduate degree. She's an inspiration to learners and teachers.   The Innovative Child Network: https://www.ticnetwork.com.ng/ Blessing's LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blessingakpan/ HundrED.org Profile: https://hundred.org/en/users/blessing-akpan   Part 1 of a 5 part series, in partnership with Open Design Afrika festival. Afrika Design was the podcast partner for Open Design Afrika festival 2020.

Don learned to appreciate the art of storytelling and photography from his father (2:22). He has worked as a graphic designer at Nation Media, graduated as part of the first cohort from Nairobi Design Institute (12:45), and is a design researcher at IDEO.org (33:36). He gives tips to designers (50:15), we discuss his design bookshelf (58:38), interviews that touched him (1:03:06) and how his faith makes him a better designer (1:08:07).

On this episode with Daniel Ampofo we discuss local & global design mentors like Chris Do, Ghanaian creative talent, African influence on Beyonce albums, the future of designers in society and much more. Daniel is the founder of DexArtmosphere and DexGhana, a design education platform and conference, creative director at 93Studios, VP at Hacklab Foundation and a design writer and observer. Outro 🎶:'Top of the Morning' by Clef and Bandana. 11:00 Mentors 20:00 DexGhana vision 30:45 Long term ambitions, designers earning a seat at the table & those he looks up to 1:01:15 Future plans & Dex conference info

Kashyap, Farhia and Grishon took part in ‘The Urban Residency’, organised by Kenya Lighting Industries and Nairobi Design Week to give young designers an opportunity to bring real products to market. They spent 5 days at Kenya Lighting Industries, refined their designs & learned about industrial manufacturing methods: laser cutting, CNC punching and electrostatic powder coating. Intros: 6:45 Process: 14:47 Learnings: 24:30 Feedback: 43:45 Legacy: 46:29 Outro: 59:45

Eugene Kavuma is the founder & director of Kampala Design Week. We caught up during the 2nd KDW at his home in Uganda, discussed the trials and tribulations of starting a design festival, his design travels, collaborations with the British council and NEON Studio and how they turned 100 wooden stalls into an installation for the festival. He also talks about the $700 bet on his own exhibition, curating Uganda's creatives and more. Find him @kavumae & @kampaladesignweek

Esther Kute was the youngest, 1st female & 1st black Product Development Manager at Bata Kenya. Products she designed sell globally, have featured @NYC fashion week, in Vogue magazine & sell millions in USD.