AFRICAN-COUTURE DESIGNER MICHELLE WATIKI DISCUSSES PROVIDING UNDERPRIVILEGED GIRLS WITH OPPORTUNITIES INTO FASHION.
Julani Mwafrika – formally known as Jelani is a contemporary online African clothing line by Michelle Watiki – a young, driven and sophisticated designer from Kenya. Fueled by her roots, she branded her clothing line with the Swahilian words ‘Julani Mwafrika’ that translate as ‘The Mighty African‘ – adding a real meaning to the brand.
As a current a full time student studying Maths, physics, chemistry and further maths, Michelle’s ultimate dream is to become an Engineer with Jelani as her side hustle. Although Michelle herself lives in England, she runs her clothing line by working with tailors abroad who manufacture her designs. We sat down with Michelle to find out the ins and outs of creating her own online store, and to hear about the lesson she’s learnt along the way: