Happy Women’s History Month!!! As a Black woman I feel like I get to celebrate for two months straight. So tomorrow is International Women’s Day, and with Nasozi’s background in international human rights it felt fitting to talk about her business xN Studio that goes beyond selling beautiful African textiles, it also has a focus on social justice. I will dig into how Nasozi started her business, and frankly what is her “why” to keep going.
Nasozi Kakembo is the founder and creative force behind xN Studio. Her company name derives from her very own, which is a Ugandan name meaning something to look up to in praise of. It is this Ugandan heritage that inspired her to establish a brand that allows her to bring the beauties of her cultural heritage into homes around the world. Born and raised outside of Washington, DC, and a Brooklynite for 12 years, Nasozi founded xN Studio in 2011. She graduated in 2008 from the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation.
For the greater part of a decade, she worked in the international human rights and social justice fields, meanwhile indulging in African textiles by night. Having built an internationally recognized home decor brand business from an idea spawned on a plane from Dakar, she is also a subject matter expert on small business development, ethical sourcing and women's economic empowerment.
On this week’s version of Love It or Hate It, and Why? I wanted to get Nasozi’s thoughts on Apartment Therapy’s latest design trends of 2022 based on designer’s feedback by Tina Chadha. Also, be sure to check out the shoppable mood board below, I designed this one with some spring inspiration in mind, and pulling from my conversation with Nasozi some of her favorite things.
Pantone Color of The Year Periwinkle inspo- Batik Mauve HASH Mark Pillow
Nasozi is always looking for stylish ways to store her mementos- Document Box (A4) and letter size, irish
Help the Suubi School to raise and provide private funds for scholarships- Donate to the Mukono Foundation
Nasozi is reading this book now, and you should read it too- The Afrominimalist's Guide to Living with Less
Nasozi has 4 cowhide rugs currently in her home, but I don’t think she has this washable one- Off White Zahara Faux Cowhide Washable Area Rug
Nasozi is all about finding used or vintage pieces in her home- 1970s Warren Platner Armchair for Knoll
Spring inspired wall basket from xN Studio- Papali African Baskets - Uganda and Rwanda
Update your planters with this new look from xN Studio- Bogolan Bauhaus TWIST planters in Kahlo Blue