There is a power and attraction that a woman who is truly comfortable with her femininity has. When I met Keziah Elaine Ayikoru, I was deeply drawn to her subtle yet assertive tone, her good posture and confidence.
Keziah is the founder of House of Kea, a fashion brand that is taking Uganda by storm. The apparel is tailor made to each individual and varies depending on the client. She loves using the African print in her collection because it commands attention, is vibrant, colorful and speaks about certain African cultures.
Keziah employs ladies from disadvantaged backgrounds thus transforming their livelihoods for the better.
She is an alumna of the Cultural and Development East Africa Fashion Incubation program and the YALI Regional Center program, 2017.
I have always loved the arts since childhood. I however took a detour to pursue my other love, Architecture at Ardhi University in Dar es Saalam, Tanzania where I graduated top of my class in 2013. I was later called back to work in Tanzania in the corporate world. I used to design clothes for family & friends as a side hustle.
I loved architecture and my job but I was not satisfied. Something was missing. My contract ended in early 2016. I decided to pursue fashion. My lovely employer was not having it. They offered me an extension with a better contract. Very good money by the way. (laughs). However, as much as I loved my work and employer, I had made up my mind. My family and friends were beyond shocked. How do you leave a comfortable lifestyle to start a business in an unknown territory? Well, to me fashion had become my second name. It was calling out to me day and night. True story.
This well spoken fearless lady has a vision of building House of Kea in to a household name and to offer employment to hundreds of families. She intends to mentor children gifted in the Arts in making the right career choices in collaboration with various organizations.
Know who you are. Have a high sense of purpose. Seek God. Seize opportunities. Work hard and your dreams will come true.
If you happen to visit Uganda, connect with Keziah and enjoy some matoke and beef with G-nut sauce.
