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:

COMPUTER PROGRAMMER JIDE ADE TALKS WALKING AWAY FROM GANG CULTURE AND FIGHTING FOR HIS EDUCATION.

Jide Ade is a young and driven computer programmer who is dedicated to helping provide a platform for other young people, to achieve success. He currently runs his own IT Company called “Iron Ltd” – where he develops websites, apps and databases for clients.

Although he originally wanted to be a lawyer and hated programming, it was his love for computers that led him in a different direction. Whilst at university, his own lecturer told him he was a programming dunce and would never be able to get the grasp of it. Even though he would ask for help and on several occasions ask to meet up with his lecturer for guidance, he was just never given the time of day.

Despite the lack of support, he not only managed to graduate with a 1st bachelor’s degree in Computer Science in 2013 but has also gone on to do a Master’s degree – which he will graduate from this summer (2015).

We sat down with Jide for more insight on his journey and his advice to the many young people who can relate to his story: