While in Kenya this past summer, our Head of Business Development & creative visionary Amal Wilemon, gave our Maker Mum studio a bright refresh. Inspired to give our new Austin HQ a similar space for customers to come & connect , she was ready to build out the first Ubuntu Life showroom. After months of designing, sourcing and a few nails in the wall later, we were able to catch up with her to discuss her intention with the new space & what it means to her to engage with our customers.
Why did you want to do a shop?
I have always thought it would be so fun to have a shop filled with all my favorite things. It's been a little side dream of mine. When Ubuntu came into my life Zane and I started chatting about it. Why not have both! A shop of all things Ubuntu Life, unique items from Africa with some sprinkles of things I love.
What does this mean for you, Ubuntu & our customers to have the opportunity to connect more with the brand?
I think it is so awesome to finally be bringing a little piece of Africa to Austin. What an amazing opportunity to have customers and this community identify with the brand more and be able to interact with it and us personally. Our goal is to create a space that feels like home & a space where people want to come hang out.
What was your inspiration to create a shop in Maai Mahiu this summer and then to come back to the States and create a showroom?
COMMUNITY! I love bringing people together. I love to entertain and create experiences. I absolutely love our Kenya family and community and our Tribe here in Austin. Why not create a space in both places that can bring them all together!?
What is your Favorite product & why?
The Love bracelet. It's fun and makes the best gift. I end up having to buy a new one almost every week because I end up giving them away. We all gotta spread the love.
