Behind The Design

You are listening to Behind the Design the Studio Lessons. Which brings us to the end of season 4. I want to thank all of my guests for taking the time to chat and give us a behind the scenes look into their design journeys. We’ve had some truly insightful conversations. And despite the uncertainty that continues to surround us at the time of recording there is a lot of hope and optimism and just getting on with things because we cannot and will not let a pandemic stop us from expressing ourselves and achieving our potential.

This is episode #5 where I am joined by designer Natsai Audrey Chieza. ABOUT Natsai: Natsai is a designer working at the intersection of technology science and nature and society. She is the founder of Faber Futures an R & D agency that is creating new spaces and strategies that relate to climate change and biodiversity loss, and the social structures that underpin our human survival. In our conversation, Natsai explains bio-design talking us through this exciting emerging technology and the implications it has on devising and creating better sustainable design solutions for our world.   We talk about: The meaning of bio-design and why it matters Looking at alternatives to harmful materials and substances such as plastic and petroleum Finding solutions to problematic processes on an environmental and social level Cultivating and designing with living organisms What is it like to work with biology in a creative context where you start and what do you do Working with nature not against it The correlation between design and science how the two meet How she got into bio-design The real-world applications of bio-design and the other materials that can be created and applied the problems of fashion being a heavily polluting industry Responsible production in industry Why Natsai chose to start her company Faber Futures How having her own practice enables her to explore her ideas and work with the right teams and clients   Links and resources mentioned in this episode: MA Central St Martins University College London Adidas x Stella McCartney Bolt Threads developed Mylo in partnership with Ecovative TEDTalk Fashion Has A Pollution Problem - Can Biology Fix It? CooperHewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum The Design Museum Gingko BioWorks Central St Martins MA Biodesign Bio-Integrated Design (Bio-ID) Bartlett School of Architecture BioDesign Challenge Global Community Bio Summit MIT Where you can go to find out more about Natsai and Faber Futures: https://faberfutures.com   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/ Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

This is episode #4 where I am joined by object designer and academic Dr Pam Samasuwo-Nyawiri. ABOUT Pam: Pam is a multi-award-winning accessories designer, educator, and author, with her own label called Vanhu Vamwe. Her experiences of working with artisans and feeling personally part of the problem of exploiting vulnerable communities led Pam to study a PhD where she could explore the impact designers working with artisans have on their lives and how to make the process better by bringing true, sustainable value to these communities.   We talk about: The struggle with having too many ideas, choosing what to focus on, and managing her time will juggling multiple projects The creativity of discipline Quitting her job and going back to university to study fashion Not being allowed  to explore her creativity as a child, and the changing attitudes to pursuing a creative career particularly for those from an African background The role of culture and the futuristic aspect of her designs Her thoughts on cultural appropriation and finding common ground How sustainable design shows up in her work and the need to be transparent in her work with different cultures The difference between partnerships and collaboration How your attitude shapes your work Doing her country proud, and being recognised as a designer and not just a black designer How accountability partners and her faith help to keep her grounded Publishing a book How she challenges herself to grow and develop her craft   Links and resources mentioned in this episode: Loughborough University Nottingham Trent Design School Abury A Woman with No Country   Where you can go to find out more about Pam and her work: Vanhu Vanmwe   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/ Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/  

This is episode #3 where I am joined by jewellery designer Audrey Migot-Adholla. ABOUT AUDREY: Audrey is the founder of Yala Jewellery an award-winning made in Kenya jewellery brand. In our conversation we talk about the meaning of sustainable luxury, collaborating with her artisan producers across continents, managing a business during a global health crisis, her thoughts on the spotlight being shone on black creatives as a result of Black Lives Matter. We talk about: Juggling all the hats in business What led her to start a jewellery brand What it is like working the 9-5 then 5-9 The role of mentors in helping her to start and grow her business Finding brand focus and how she did that Managing time and energy while going through the process Perfection - outsourcing weaknesses as much as she can Successfully working and collaborating with artisans Harnessing the power of networks to find people to work with Making the partnerships work across different continents, the role of technology, working out what can be done, and managing quality control Her sampling process The importance of sustainable luxury Getting Certified B Corp Managing Logistics Managing a business during a global health crisis The impact of BLM and the conflicted feelings as a result of the increased attention on black creative businesses How to stay the course   Links and resources mentioned in this episode: Etsy The Wayback Machine London College of Fashion Shopify WhatsApp Certified B Corporation The Guardian Newspaper Ella’s Kitchen Companies House What it feels like to keep a small business going during a global health crisis @influencerpaygap Where you can go to find out more about Audrey and Yala Jewellery: www.yalajewellery.com @yalajewellery   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/ Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

This is episode #2 where I am joined by architect and product designer Tosin Oshinowo. ABOUT TOSIN: Tosin is an architect with her own architectural practice called C M Design Atelier. She is also a product designer designing furniture using local fabrics under the brand Ilé Ilà. In our conversation, we talk about establishing her name as an architect in an industry with a notoriously high barrier to entry, cultivating the confidence needed to win contracts and the business support essentials that have enabled her to start and managing multiple businesses.   We talk about: What inspired her interest in architecture and led her to set up her architectural studio C M Design Atelier The process of establishing herself as an architect How working from a place of insecurity is a strength The importance of presentation to build trust The importance of understanding the basics of setting up a business, being honest about your capabilities, and getting the skills you need Having a circle of people she can call on for help and advice Managing client and money relationships The types of projects she works on and developing her design signature Designing for the local environment and being aware of how people use space Her thoughts on the development of architecture across the African continent The impact of Covid on her practice and the local architecture/construction industry Embracing multiple income streams The opportunity that led to the creation of her chair design business Navigating the process of getting product to market Managing multiple businesses   Links and resources mentioned in this episode Maryland Mall Kingston University University College London (UCL) OMA Where you can go to find out more about Tosin, CMD Atelier and Ilé Ilà: www.cmdesign-atelier.com @cmdesign_atelier www.ile-ila.com @ile.ila Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/ Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

This is episode #1 where I am joined by textile designer Eno Jonah. ABOUT ENO: Eno is the founder of Nzuri Textiles, a brand of exquisitely handcrafted textiles with a focus on sustainable luxury. In our conversation Eno talks about the inspiration behind her designs, what sustainable luxury means to her, preserving artisan skills, and takes us on the journey from an idea through to finished textile. We talk about: Travelling and learning from other cultures Finding also that last and can be recycled The stories behind her designs The journey of a textile from an idea to finished product The meaning of sustainable luxury The journey of setting up a business Connecting to showrooms and how to find reps Getting her name out there and building visibility The impact of Black Lives Matter, and the need to keep the conversation going How she keeps challenging herself to grow as a designer   Links and resources mentioned in this episode Atelier Qubere New York Gallery Moyi Magazine Maker Amsterdam Where you can go to find out more about Eno and Nzuri Textiles: https://nzuritextiles.com/ @nzuritextiles1217   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/ Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

A warm welcome to Season 4 of Behind the Design. Introducing another stellar line up my guests this season come from the worlds of textiles, architecture, product, and fashion design. Not to mention delving into academia, science and technology and their influences on design practice and the future of design. Just before launching this season atelier 55 my platform behind the podcast reached a significant milestone, by marking a decade of blogging curating and writing about contemporary design from Africa and beyond. Without atelier 55 and the amazing journey, it has led me on this podcast may not have come to light. Whilst celebrating the milestone and recording the season 4 episodes it almost slipped my mind that It has been a year since Behind the Design launched. Another milestone to celebrate and a huge thank you to you for downloading and listening, and may you be inspired by the season 4 conversations.

You are listening to Behind the Design episode #7 the Studio Lessons. Which brings us to the end of season 3. I want to thank all of my guests for taking the time to chat especially during the circumstances we currently find ourselves in to give us a behind the scenes look into their design journeys. They like most of us have experienced the upheaval and uncertainty of navigating their way through a pandemic and having to continually adapt as the world finds its way towards some sense of stability. And while we can never be sure about what tomorrow will bring their hope, optimism and can-do attitude helps them cut through the challenges. 

This is episode #6 where I am joined by fashion designer and entrepreneur Mariatu Turay-Akar. ABOUT MARITAU: You are listening to episode number 6 of season 3. And joining me on the show is Mariatu Turay-Akar. Mariatu is the founder of Gitas Portal a London-based mid-luxury fashion brand that uses vibrant African wax cloth textiles to celebrate and promote cultural diversity. We talk about using fashion to inspire and empower women to be bold, how her faith helps her to stay motivated and push past the challenges of running a business, and how Gitas Portal has become a place of connectivity and healing for her clients. So let’s begin… We talk about: Gitas Portal a platform to empower women and using it to tell the stories of women Her role in promoting a positive image of brand Africa and telling our own stories What led to her starting her own business The politics of African fashion and prints The impact wearing colour has on ourselves and those around us Managing the negativity and flipping that into positive Growing up with role models who were fighters in what they believe in Standing her ground Staying relevant in changing times How nurturing and listening to her customers has helped her stay relevant Practicing self-care in business The meaning behind the name Gitas Portal? Realising when it was time to leave her business Recognising the signs that you are meant to be doing something   Links and resources mentioned in this episode Where you can go to find out more about Mariatu and Gitas Portal: https://www.gitasportal.com @gitasportal   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/ Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

This is episode #5 of season 3 Where I am joined by furniture and product designer Jomo Tariku.   ABOUT JOMO:  You are listening to episode number 5 of season 3. And joining me on the show is Jomo Tariku. Jomo is an Ethiopian / American artist and furniture designer. His company Jomo Furnitures creates pieces inspired by classical African design icons reinterpreting the forms for modern living.   We talk about:   The inspiration behind his designs and celebrating the diversity in African creativity What being a member of The Black Artists and Designers Guild, has had on raising awareness of his work Having a full-time day job and how he makes time to work on Jomo Furniture Finding suitable manufacturers to work with to realise his designs His thoughts on African design looking back on when he started to where he is now Underrepresentation of African design and black designers in general in the global design industry   Links and resources mentioned in this episode Kansas University Addis Design Week Dubai Design Week Contemporary Design Africa Malene Barnett Black Artists and Designers Guild Milan Design Week   Where you can go to find out more about Jomo Furniture: www.jomofurniture.com @jomofurniture   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/ Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/  

This is episode #4 of season 3 where I am joined by textile designer Chrissa Amuah.   ABOUT CHRISSA:  Chrissa is a textile designer and the founder of AMWA Designs a brand of handmade textiles and print designs for the home. She is also the founder of Africa by Design a platform bringing together and creating opportunities for African designers.   We talk about:   Her thoughts on the future of Africa’s design, and how design can help the African continent to realign and re-navigate its future The motivation behind launching Africa by Design, and the impact has it had on shining the light on African design Celebrating and highlighting the diversity in African design How she discovered her love for textile design Being authentic in telling her story The need to dream bigger for ourselves The challenges she has faced in building her brand and learning to push boundaries with limited means The importance of sustainable design not designing for trends but designing for meaning        Links and resources mentioned in this episode Africa by Design - https://www.africabydesign.org Nubuke Foundation Gallery - https://www.nubukefoundation.org Chelsea College of Art and Design - https://www.arts.ac.uk/colleges/chelsea-college-of-arts Milan Design Week + Salone Satellite - https://www.salonemilano.it/en/ Marva Griffin - https://www.luminaire.com/illuminate/marva-griffin-mentor-to-young-designers/ Dominique L’Olive - https://www.arts.ac.uk/study-at-ual/short-courses/stories/studying-with-dominique-lolive-in-the-studio-and-online-csm Adinkra Symbols - https://www.atelier55design.com/adinkra-symbols-writing-traditions-connecting-the-verbal-and-visual/ Central St Martins - https://www.arts.ac.uk/colleges/central-saint-martins El Anatsui - https://www.atelier55design.com/art-ghana-el-anatsui-cascading-metal-wall-sculptures/ Bernhardt Design - https://bernhardtdesign.com London Design Biennale - https://www.londondesignbiennale.com Alice Asafu-Adjaye - https://www.mustardarch.com/about   Where you can go to find out more about AMWA Designs: www.amwadesigns.com @amwadesigns   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/ Instagram: @atelier55design - https://www.instagram.com/atelier55design/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/  

This is episode #3 of season 3 where I am joined by furniture and product designer Lani Adeoye.   ABOUT LANI:  Lani is an award-winning sculptural lighting and product designer and design strategist, and the founder of Studio Lani.    We talk about:   How her interest in design developed organically and going from a corporate non-creative role to studying design and founding her business Visiting design shows before she started to see what was out there and learn about design Having the confidence to put yourself out there Transitioning from working a full-time day job to freelancing to running her business full-time Moving to Nigeria to bring her closer to the artisans she works with Juggling the different roles that come with owning your own business How long it takes to bring a collection from concept to finished design Harnessing creative thinking to overcome challenges and find solutions that can bring her designs to life Showcasing heritage through contemporary lenses Staying true to what you believe, but being open to evolve Nurturing creativity in young children   Links and resources mentioned in this episode: Interior Design Show Toronto International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) Aṣa NYCxDesign Wanted Design Architectural Digest Elle Decor International Women of Design Simon Sinek book Start With Why   Where you can go to find out more about Studio Lani: www.studiolani.com @studiolani   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/ Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

This is episode #2 of season 3 where I am joined by clay healer Andile Dyalvane.   ABOUT ANDILE: Andile Dyalvane is the co-founder of the Imiso a high-end brand of bespoke, conversational, and collectibles ceramics.   We talk about: How his interest in clay began How culture and heritage influences his design His thoughts on the acceptance of art as a career Using clay as a way of connecting with Mother Earth, with ancestry, and his heritage  The responsibility bestowed on him by his elders of being chosen to bring back dignity to his community through his art The journey of setting up Imiso, and the challenges of having to develop business skills fast How residences have helped him grow and develop as an artist and helps with getting back to what matters Being a mentor to those following in his footsteps, and why having someone to look up to matters Developing or finding a design identity Dealing with self-doubt Knowing your purpose and accepting that not everyone will understand or like what he does, and that’s ok  Following and embracing his creativity, which fuels his spiritual growth Links and resources mentioned in this episode Cape Craft and Design Institute Katherine Glenday Clay Adventures Ceramic Studio Nelson Mandela University of Technology The Old Biscuit Mill Design Network Africa  Southern Guild   Where you can go to find out more about Imiso: www.imiso.com Instagram: @imiso   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/   Instagram: @atelier55design  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

Welcome to episode 1 of the third season of Behind The Design. This season I bring you more great conversation and insight into the work of amazing creative talent from across Africa and in the diaspora. As excited as I am to be welcoming you to the season it was recorded against the backdrop of the biggest seismic shifts our world has faced in recent times. I am feeling the weight of a period of fear, turmoil, uncertainty, frustration, and just plain overwhelming tiredness. My guests also reflect this uncertainty. But through the current challenges, there is hope, and there is optimism. So I hope you will find this season inspiring, and I am looking forward to welcoming you to each episode. Tapiwa   You can find the full show notes for all the episodes at: atelier | 55 - www.atelier55design.com

You are listening to Behind the Design episode #7 the Studio Lessons. Which brings us to the end of season 2. It has been another inspiring season, and I thank all my guests for taking the time to chat and give us a behind the scenes look into their design journeys. I’ve loved discovering their motivations and the challenges and rewards that come from doing what they do.

This is episode #6 where I am joined by sustainable design entrepreneur Achenyo Idachaba-Obaro.   ABOUT ACHENYO:  You are listening to episode number 6 of season 2. And joining me on the show is Achenyo Idachaba-Obaro. Achenyo is the founder of MitiMeth. An award-winning social enterprise based in Nigeria. Working with local communities MitiMeth takes water hyacinth, an evasive destructive weed, and upcycles it into personal and interior accessories.   We talk about:   Going from a corporate computer science career to starting a business the creative industry   What drew her to consulting in the green space   Being born and raised in the US and making the decision to move to Nigeria her country of heritage to start her business   Why she chose to work with water hyacinth, and looking at how local solutions could be applied globally   The process for harvesting and turning this weed into a material that she can work with   The impact transforming water hyacinth s had on the local communities Mitimeth works with   How she identified the communities she wanted to work with   How she decides on what products to create   How she generates brand awareness   Being a Cartier Women’s Initiative finalist and the impact this has had on her business and her as a leader   How she keeps challenging herself to grow and develop your business and craft?       Links and resources mentioned in this episode United Nations Environment Programme - https://www.unenvironment.org  The UN Global goals - https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-development-goals/ Cartier Women’s Initiative - https://www.cartierwomensinitiative.com/candidate/achenyo-idachaba Vital Voices and Pond's Fellowship - https://www.vitalvoices.org/what-we-do/signature-programs/vvlead/   Where you can go to find out more about Achenyo and MitiMeth: https://www.mitimeth.com   @mitimeth.ng - https://www.instagram.com/mitimeth.ng/   https://www.facebook.com/MitiMeth-Handcrafted-Home-Decor-and-Personal-Accessories-183239771748672/ Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelierfiftyfive/   Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

This is episode #5 where I am joined by furniture and product designer Dounia Tamri-Loeper.   ABOUT DOUNIA:  You are listening to episode number 5 of season 2. And joining me on the show is Dounia Tamri-Loeper. Dounia is the designer and founder of Dounia Home. A lighting company that is based in the US and Morocco. Dounia Home is on a mission to modernise Moroccan design reimagining the traditional techniques and craftsmanship into sophisticated collections that have sustainability at their heart.   We talk about: Taking decision to leave her job to start her own business Researching her idea and spending time in Morocco travelling the country and getting to know the different crafts from a a designer perspective Using her designer’s eye to modernise the old styles Leveraging trade shows to build her brand name, awareness and credibility The importance of knowing her audience and getting in front of them Managing a business between the US and Morocco, and why a process is key Producing in Morocco and working with artisan groups How government support has helped develop and grow her business Designing for sustainability and not trends Finding and attracting collaborations  Looking to the future of design Being bold and not being afraid to reach out for opportunities  What being in business has taught her about herself     Links and resources mentioned in this episode Maison de l’artisan - http://www.maisonartisan.ma Elle Decor - https://www.elledecor.com House Beautiful - https://www.housebeautiful.com Handmade Contemporary Fair (HmC) - http://www.artlogic.co.za/fairs Aphrochic - https://www.aphrochic.com     Where you can go to find out more about Dounia and Dounia Home: https://www.douniahome.com   @douniahome - https://www.instagram.com/douniahome/     Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelierfiftyfive/   Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

This is episode #4 where I am joined by furniture and product designer Thabisa Mjo.   ABOUT THABISA:  Thabisa is the designer, behind Mash.T an award-winning Johannesburg based design studio that is contributing to the continuing evolution of a home-grown contemporary South African design aesthetic.   We talk about:   The reasons for working for herself  The challenges is access to market Appreciating the value of social capital  The importance of having systems in place to stop you working harder than is actually necessary  Not letting failure stop her Being aware of the privilege of being able to have her own business and the responsibilities that come with this Breaking through the barrier of gatekeeping - The challenges of overcoming a system that is designed to keep people out  How she did not come to design the traditional way  Taking the initiative to go out there and ask for work, for the opportunities The importance of doing your research  Having confidence, determination and self-belief  Respecting the deep roots of generational knowhow and the people you work with Changing the way people think about African design       Links and resources mentioned in this episode Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs - https://www.thoughtco.com/maslows-hierarchy-of-needs-4582571 Sketchup - https://www.sketchup.com Oprah Magazine South Africa - now closed Estee Lauder South Africa - https://www.esteelauder.co.za Veuve Clicquot South Africa - https://www.veuveclicquot.com/en-gb Tracy Lynch - https://www.leelynch.co.za Nando’s Hot Young Designer - http://hotyoungdesigner.co.za Louise Mcann - http://thecontentstudio.co.za/ Chandelle Lighting - http://www.chandelle-lighting.co.za     Where you can go to find out more about Thabisa and Mash T: @mashtdesignstudio - https://www.instagram.com/mashtdesignstudio/?hl=en     Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelierfiftyfive/   Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

This is episode #3 where I am joined by furniture and product designer Audrey Forson.   ABOUT AUDREY:  Audrey is a furniture designer, and the managing director of Tekura, her family’s business in Ghana. Tekura was started by her parents and Audrey is continuing the legacy by taking the business to the next level.   We talk about: Stepping in to take over the family business How interning at the business while still at school helped her to learn the different aspects of the business Leaning on the job as a self-taught creative and designer The stories Tekura is telling and how the business has a deep link to her heritage The importance of market awareness The production cycle and tailoring products for the different audiences Nurturing the next generation of designers by giving back and sharing her advice and experiences The importance of understanding the business side of design Why legacy matters, creating businesses that can be passed onto the next generations to each take forward     Links and resources mentioned in this episode Cheick Diallo Hamed Ouattara - https://www.coroflot.com/hamedouattara Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology - Rural Arts - https://www.facebook.com/KNUSTksi/   **NOTE: The audio has been edited but you will experience some background noise**   Where you can go to find out more about Audrey and Tekura: https://www.designtekura.com @tekura_designs - https://www.instagram.com/tekura_designs/     Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelierfiftyfive/   Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

This is episode #2 of season 2 where I am joined by fashion designer Lola Ukinamemen.   ABOUT LOLA: Lola is the founder of the fashion and lifestyle brand, Agnes & Lola, a UK-based platform which pioneered the retail of African fashion to international audiences.   We talk about: Spotting a gap in the market to retail African fashion How Agnes & Lola became a journey of discovery of self The naivety of starting out with passion but not doing the due diligence required to start a business Being unprepared for the visibility that comes with PR recognition  Acknowledging when things were not working and knowing it was time to step away Experiencing the shame of stopping and feeling like she was letting everyone down Recognising what went wrong the first time round  Appreciating the importance of family, in particular what she could have learned from her grandmother Choosing to revive Agnes & Lola Regaining her passion and sense of identity in the new version of Agnes & Lola         Links and resources mentioned in this episode Chichia - https://www.notjustalabel.com/chichia-london CNN - https://edition.cnn.com/2010/BUSINESS/11/19/african.fashion.agnes.lola/index.html Shopify - https://www.shopify.co.uk Squarespace - https://www.squarespace.com Myleek Teele - https://mytaughtyou.com/podcast-page/ Finding Paula -     Where you can go to find out more about Agnes & Lola: https://www.agnesandlola.com @agnesamdlola - https://www.instagram.com/agnesandlola/   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55 Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelierfiftyfive/   Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/

Welcome to episode 1 of the second season of Behind The Design. This season I bring you more great conversation and insight into the work of amazing creative talent from across Africa and in the diaspora. And I must say thank you for the comments I have received so for about episodes in the first season. I am so glad to hear how much some of the conversations have resonated and inspired you. And I have passed the comments onto my guests. I hope you will find this season just as inspiring, and I am looking forward to welcoming you to each episode. Tapiwa   You can find the full show notes for all the episodes at: atelier | 55 - www.atelier55design.com

You are listening to episode #9 of Behind The Design, and this episode brings us to the end of the season. I want to thank all my guests for taking time out of their busy schedules. I had a wonderful time chatting with each of them and getting a glimpse into their different businesses. I don’t know about you but I learned so much and more importantly I came away from each interview feeling invigorated, experiencing a boost of motivation for wanting to do and be better.

This is episode 8 where I am joined by product designer Olubunmi Adeyemi.    ABOUT OLUBUNMI:  Lagos based, Nigerian born designer, Olubunmi Adeyemi is an internationally recognized designer, interior architect and lifestyle entrepreneur, He is the founder of AFROMINIMA™ a design and lifestyle movement inspired by minimalism, and The DÅ brand. He has studied design in both London and South Africa. An alumni of the prestigious Lagos Business School, he is currently pursuing a masters at Central St Martins, in London, UK.     We talk about:   His focus on minimal design, what drew him to it and the difficulty in achieving a minimalist aesthetic   Creating his own design aesthetic and how that is helping to develop his business and make him a better designer   How culture impacts design, and the importance of seeing things from different cultural perspectives   His thoughts on inspiration and appropriation   Getting your products stocked in high profile outlets and how to attract opportunities   The importance of connections to grow and develop your business   How his jewellery design collaboration with Adele Dejak came about and what it has been like designing fashion accessories     Links and resources mentioned in this episode  British Council Nigeria - https://www.britishcouncil.org.ng Central St Martins - Applied Imaginations in the Creative Industries - https://www.arts.ac.uk/subjects/business-and-management-and-science/postgraduate/ma-applied-imagination-in-the-creative-industries-csm Adele Dejak - https://www.adeledejak.com Sanlam HmC - http://www.artlogic.co.za/fairs   Where you can go to find out more about Bunmi https://afrominima.wixsite.com/ Instagram: @afrominima - https://www.instagram.com/afrominima/?hl=en Instagram: @the.da.brand - https://www.instagram.com/the.da.brand/?hl=en   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier | 55

This is episode 7 where I am joined by digital marketing expert and t-shirt brand founder Kwabena Oppong Boateng.    ABOUT KWABENA:  Kwabena Oppong Boateng is a dynamic communications professional with extensive social media, telecommunications and advertising experience across public, private and corporate sectors in Ghana, Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He is the founder of Kayobi clothing, and Nkanee, a 21st century strategy consultancy based Accra, Ghana that specialises in innovative physical and digital experiences powered by ideas and creativity.   We talk about:   His LinkedIn article, Blackout, which discusses social media outages in Ghana, and the effect this has on businesses and sales   The dangers of using social media platforms as the sole place to run a business   The difficulty for African brands and access to reliable commerce solutions and the solutions   Why having a website even if it is a simple webpage matters, and the advantages of having your own platform   The importance of using offline in your marketing strategy   The value of collecting customer data and cultivating real relationships with your customers   How to create a business marketing strategy that works for your business   Analytics and how to use them in your business    Attracting attention to your your business   Links and resources mentioned in this episode  Blackout LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kboateng?originalSubdomain=gh Jumia - https://group.jumia.com Shopify - https://www.shopify.co.uk Bigcartel - https://www.bigcartel.com Bigcommerce - https://www.bigcommerce.co.uk Orijin Culture - https://orijinstore.com Christie Brown - https://www.christiebrownonline.com Duro Olowu -  https://www.duroolowu.com Quicksell App - quicksell.co   Where you can go to find out more about Kwabena http://www.koboateng.com http://www.nkanee.com https://www.kayobiclothing.com/collection.html   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier | 55

This is episode 6 where I am joined by fashion accessories designer Akosua Afriyie-Kumi.    ABOUT AKOSUA:   You are listening to episode #6. And joining me on the show is Akosua Afriyie-Kumi the founder of A A K S, a fashion accessories brand that tells an exciting story of Ghana, and offers a different perspective of Africa as a whole. A A K S’s raffia bags are handmade by a women’s cooperative in Northern Ghana, and uses ethical processes inspired by old-age craft traditions. Through her brand Akosua wants the world to see how luxury and quality can grow from traditional designs and is using AAKS bags to change perceptions of Africa through fashion.  She has been shortlisted as an emerging designer from Africa by Vogue Italia and has been featured in leading press titles and the A A K S collections are stocked in 20 countries and 70 stores worldwide.   We talk about:   Moving from the UK back to Ghana to explore her idea and start her business   Her desire to build on traditional crafts and give them a place in the modern world   Finding weavers to work with and overcoming communication barriers to develop her design ideas   The process from concept to getting her first saleable bag, and how she plans and develops a collection   Building an authentic brand in a content noisy world   How she retains her ethical values whilst meeting commercial demands   The challenges of business in balancing passion and purpose with making a living   Her big break and her experiences of working with stockists   Creating a brand and developing her brand aesthetic   The relevance of having a website to attract stockists     Links and resources mentioned in this episode  Kingston University UK - https://www.kingston.ac.uk British Library Business & IP Centre - https://www.bl.uk/business-and-ip-centre Anthropologie - https://www.anthropologie.com/en-gb/ British Council - https://www.britishcouncil.org Design Network Africa - https://designnetworkafrica.wordpress.com Lagos Fashion Week - http://lagosfashionweek.ng Pitti Trade show Milan - http://www.pittimmagine.com/en/corporate/fairs.html She Trades - https://www.shetrades.com/en UNHCR Weaving for Change - https://www.aaksonline.com/blog/2018/2/11/weaving-for-change   Where you can go to find out more about Akosua www.aaksonline.com Instagram: @a.a.k.s - https://www.instagram.com/a.a.k.s/?hl=en Facebook: @aakshandcrafted - https://www.facebook.com/Aakshandcrafted/   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier | 55

This is episode 5 where I am joined by textile designer Eva Sonaike.    ABOUT EVA:  Eva Sonaike is the founder of Eva Sonaike, a London-based interiors and lifestyle brand creating luxurious textiles and home décor products. Eva, who was born and raised in Germany and is of Nigerian heritage, has taken the best elements of these two cultures to inspire her work. The result being designs that bring the vibrancy of African colours and aesthetics to the luxury home décor and accessories market.     We talk about:   What led her to starting a textile design business, and the journey of turning a hobby into a full-time business   How her first collection attracted the attention of Selfridges and Liberty London, two prestigious London department stores. How being in the right place at the right time has led to some of her biggest opportunities.   Celebrating ten years of Eva Sonaike and what has this journey taught her about herself and as a business leader   Developing the characteristics of a textile designer and the importance of business acumen   Using trade shows to help get her brand exposure, and what participation has taught her about branding and building a world-class brand   Why you shouldn’t say yes to every opportunity   The perception of luxury African Design in a western market   Getting her products into African countries, the ease of doing business   Overcoming discouragement and seasons of doubt   Balancing family and business     Links and resources mentioned in this episode  Selfridges - https://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/ Liberty London - https://www.libertylondon.com Fenwick - https://www.fenwick.co.uk The Observer Magazine - https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2018/may/06/african-express-how-bright-textiles-brought-one-london-home-to-life Alara - @alaralagos https://www.instagram.com/alaralagos/?hl=en Temple Muse - http://www.temple-muse.com Concept Store in Rwanda get name Eki Orleans - https://ekisilk.com Lisa Folawiyo - http://www.lisafolawiyo.com Aburi Gardens Ghana - https://touringghana.com/aburi-botanical-gardens/ Google Analytics - https://analytics.google.com//   Where you can go to find out more about Eva https://www.evasonaike.com Instagram: @evasonaike - https://www.instagram.com/evasonaike/?hl=en Facebook: @evasonaike - https://www.facebook.com/evasonaike/   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier | 55

This is episode 4 where I am joined by user interaction designer and tech conference organiser Farai Madzima.    ABOUT FARAI: Farai Madzima is a UX Lead at Shopify in Ottawa, Canada. Born in Zimbabwe, Farai has spent the last 14 years helping to design and build products and teams in the UK, South Africa and Canada. He is the organiser of Pixel Up!, a series of UX and design conferences and meetups in South Africa created to connect designers and developers in Africa with their peers around the world.    We talk about:   What is UX design and why it matters to business   Why product and service creators need to see the product and user experience from the customer’s perspective   The increasing effect that technologies such as voice activated platforms will have on  businesses and the user experience and how to prepare for the change   His talk ‘Can Being African Make You A Bad Designer?’ and how it explores the understanding of culture and how that shows up in us at work   The lessons learnt from being fired from one of his first jobs and how the experience helped him to grow into leadership   Managing teams where age differences and cultural expectations could be an issue    His thoughts on the future of Africa’s tech industries     Links and resources mentioned in this episode Andela  - https://andela.com Udemy online courses - https://www.udemy.com Figma - https://www.figma.com/africa/ forloop - https://forloop.africa Udacity courses - https://www.udacity.com Interaction Design Foundation (IDF) - https://www.interaction-design.org Can Being African Make You A Bad Designer? - https://interaction18.ixda.org/program/talk-can-being-african-make-you-a-bad-designer----cultural-bias-in-design-madzima-farai/     Where you can go to find out more about Farai ​​https://faraimadzima.com ​​https://pixelup.co.za ​​https://www.linkedin.com/in/farai/ Twitter: @farai_uxguy   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier | 55

This is episode 3 where I am joined by textile and product designer Edith Tialeu.    ABOUT EDITH:  Edith Tialeu is on a mission to share the rich craft heritage of her home country, Cameroon and the wider continent with the world through her brand Frida 54, which produces collections of woven textiles and lifestyle accessories such ceramics handcrafted in collaboration with the local artisans she seeks out, many of whom are women. Through her brand, Edith seeks to define a new African aesthetic, one which exists between tradition and contemporary style and upholds creativity, human input, and know-how.   We talk about:   Moving from Paris to her home country of Cameroon to start her design brand, and how she prepared for the transition   Overcoming resistance from family who wanted her to do something else   How she went about identifying and finding the different kinds of artisanal talent in Cameroon   The significance and meaning behind the name Frida, and the connection to her African heritage   How she works with artisans, the relationships she has created and why it was important to learn hand on how they work to help her better understand the types of products that could be created   Why preserving local artisanal skills is important, and the importance of taking on young interns to help pass on the skills   The costs and challenges of logistics, getting stock and products into the hands of her customers   Taking part in trade shows and learning from the experiences to make her business better   What being in business has taught her about herself     Links and resources mentioned in this episode Le Grand Palais - https://www.grandpalais.fr/en/programmation   Where you can go to find out more about Edith and Frida 54 www.frida-54.com Instagram: @frida_54     Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast    Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier | 55

This is episode 2 where I am joined by interior and furniture designer Siyanda Mbele.    ABOUT SIYANDA: Siyanda Mbele is the founder of Pinda Design, the design studio he set up in his hometown of Durban, South Africa. He designs and manufactures hand-painted furniture inspired by South Africa’s diverse cultures.   We talk about: The financial implications of starting design business - finding funding and getting support from family to support his dream   The costs of manufacturing, and finding the right manufacturers to work with   Who turns to for advice and business support   The early mistakes he made and how he fixed them   Learning to connect and negotiate with global buyers   The challenges of getting his product to market, logistics shipping internationally from the continent and how he works around the challenges   The role of culture in design, the impact it has on society, and why it's important for him to express his culture in his designs   Cultural shifts in South Africa, and the emergence and impact of young black furniture and product designers making a name for themselves and contributing to the South African design aesthetic, and what has changed to make this possible   Links and resources mentioned in this episode Durban University Of Technology - https://www.dut.ac.za/course/bachelor_of_technology_interior_design/ Design Indaba - https://www.designindaba.com SABS Design Institute - http://design.sabs.co.za   Where you can go to find out more about Siyanda Instagram: @pindadesign | @siyanadmbele https://www.behance.net/Pindabysiyandambele   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast 

This is episode 1 and a warm welcome to the Behind The Design podcast, hosted by me, Tapiwa Matsinde. Starting a podcast that shares the stories of designers and creatives from across Africa and in the diaspora has been a dream of my mine for a while, and having finally taken the steps to do so I am delighted to introduce you to the first season.    In this episode I share: A bit about myself, as the voice behind the Podcast; The work I do in supporting the African design industry through my platform atelier | 55;  The purpose behind the Podcast, and  My hopes on how the Podcast will benefit you.   Links and resources mentioned in this episode atelier | 55 - www.atelier55design.com   Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast