Buy African Archives

9 years of Afri-love + so much more than a blog

9 years ago tomorrow, I published my first post on a new blog I named Afri-love. I had thoughts and theories I wanted to explore; discoveries I wanted to share; inspiration I wanted to pass on; and community I wanted to find.

I didn’t know it at the time but, my humble blog was about to be the most powerful vehicle for me to find my voice, to realise my purpose and to build some incredible relationships along the way.

If you’ve been reading for a while, you know I love creating lists of 9. Therefore, it’s thus fitting to share one with you, celebrating this 9th anniversary of what has become so much more than just a blog! Continue reading “9 years of Afri-love + so much more than a blog”

Afri-love Gift Guide – For Her

We’ve curated some of our favourite pieces from some of our favourite African brands, to help make gift-giving easy. Whether you’re looking for something special for your Valentine, or need a unique treat to celebrate a magical woman, we think you’ll find something here. This list encompasses fashion, accessories, beauty, stationery and art. Continue reading “Afri-love Gift Guide – For Her”

African goddesses: Orisha Alchemy – a project story

African goddesses were an obvious choice of subject for me, given how I love to create African feminist work.

In addition, for a long time, I’ve been interested in religions and belief systems. Years ago, I started a blog dedicated to this exploration which, I used to create some art for.

My recently launched collection, Orisha Alchemy, picks up where that now inactive blog left off. In this post I share my inspiration, my process and the final creations. Continue reading “African goddesses: Orisha Alchemy – a project story”

Made in Kenya Store

“Made in Kenya” design was a very different thing when I was growing up, a couple of decades ago. The creative industry consisted of great theatrical productions and not much else. African Heritage was the place to get beautiful African crafts but, very much of the aesthetic that you’d expect when you think of “African”.

Back then, there were very few possibilities in our imagination, when it came to having a career as a creative and being able to make a decent living off of it.

That’s a huge part why I started this blog: to showcase the diversity of creative possibilities for us – affirming people’s creative dreams and inspiring them to pursue them.

Continue reading “Made in Kenya Store”

A few of my favourite things: Kenyan design brands

Nairobi this past November was a feast for the eyes, thanks to some of my favourite Kenyan design brands! I participated in several fairs which, gave me the opportunity to check out the great work of my peers.

The photos below were taken at Biz Baz, XmasBoX, Spring Valley Bazaar and the Ichyulu Pop Up at Zen Garden. This list is by no-means exhaustive!

I’m participating in 2 more events this year: a special Christmas evening at Nook Cafe on Thursday (14th December) and Pop-Up & Chill Handmaker’s Market, this Sunday (17th December). Come through to hang out, discover some new brands, and get your last-minute Christmas gifts and treats! Continue reading “A few of my favourite things: Kenyan design brands”

A visit to the Tribal Gallery in Nairobi

I recently visited the beautiful Tribal Gallery in Nairobi and fell in love! The one-of-a-kind home is the embodiment of my love for art, travel, textiles, unique furniture, interior design and even succulents! Continue reading “A visit to the Tribal Gallery in Nairobi”

Project stories: our collaboration with Sandstorm Kenya

December is here and I’m getting all reflective and starting to take stock of this year. One of the most exciting things that happened is my collaboration with luxury bag brand, Sandstorm Kenya.

Today, I thought I’d share a little bit about how the featured designs came to life. Continue reading “Project stories: our collaboration with Sandstorm Kenya”

Buy African: baby gift ideas, made in Africa

A baby gift list is something I had to put together recently, ahead of my baby shower-ish thing.

My little one is due any moment now and the Google and Instagram algorithms clearly know this as, I’m constantly coming across posts and pages to do with pregnancy and all things babies and motherhood (of course this is a reflection of my browsing history!).

If you’re looking for a beautiful and unique baby gift, here are just a few ideas, made in Africa, from some interesting brands… Continue reading “Buy African: baby gift ideas, made in Africa”

Lulu Kitololo Studio design and illustration highlights from 2016

Happy new year! I hope you had some time to rest and rejuvenate as the year turned. A good chunk of my holiday was spent in Moshi, Tanzania. I stayed at my late grandparents’ home – resting, reading and spending time with family. I came back to Nairobi with renewed enthusiasm and clarity! There are several big (and slightly scary) adventures – design and otherwise – on the horizon this year, for me and for the Studio. I look forward to sharing them with you.

The first one starts next week, when 3 creative friends and I set off for a 15,000km+ road trip through southern Africa (see below).

As we prepare to set off, I wanted to share some highlights from 2016. Many of you have been a part of these projects and endeavours and I thank you deeply for your different contributions. Continue reading “Lulu Kitololo Studio design and illustration highlights from 2016”

The Afri-love Sundown Sessions: 3 intimate evenings of live music

I'm excited to share something I've been working on with you. I've curated a series of intimate live music gigs taking place on the last 3 Fridays of this month, in London.

As the days get shorter, nights get chillier and London settles down and braces itself for the winter – I dream of sunny days, vibrant colours and the soulful energy that I feel, back home.

Black History Month is the perfect occasion to launch the Sundown Sessions – conceived in the Afri-love spirit of celebrating the work of amazing African and diaspora creatives.

The artists

Join me and engage with inspired musicians who, will transport us to faraway lands. Featuring resident act Sirena Riley and Tom Donald; Adriano Adewale (Friday 16th), Namvula (Friday 23rd), Muntu Valdo (Friday 30th), with Djs Africathy and Zezi Ifore.

Continue reading “The Afri-love Sundown Sessions: 3 intimate evenings of live music”