Looking for pieces that feel powerful and beautiful at the same time? You’re about to meet your new obsession!
In the heart of Nairobi, where bustling streets meet heritage-laced creativity, a Kenyan fashion brand emerged in 2016 that has since redefined what it means to wear your values. That brand is JIAMINI KENYA — a name that literally means “believe in yourself” in Swahili. And honestly, you can feel that belief in every stitch, bead, and silhouette.
Meet the Woman Behind the Brand
So, who’s behind all this beauty and purpose?
Jennifer Mulli didn’t come from fashion (surprised?). She came from international development, helping grassroots communities across East Africa through big-picture impact work. But along the way, something clicked: traditional crafts could do more than preserve heritage — they could build futures.
She traded spreadsheets for beadwork and launched JIAMINI — not just for trends, but for transformation. This isn’t about adding pretty things to the world. It was about designing with meaning. (And, she nailed it!)
“I want every woman to believe in herself and focus on her success.”
— Jennifer Mulli
If you’re into bold pieces that feel like wearable art (but still somehow work with your go-to blazer), the Kathiani Drop Necklace will be your new favourite!
Craft That Speaks Volumes
Let’s be clear — JIAMINI’s pieces aren’t just accessories. They’re declarations. Bold, intricate, and unapologetically sculptural. Some people even call them “body armour” – and once you try one on, you’ll understand why.
What makes these pieces truly powerful is what (and who) goes into them. Every item is handcrafted by skilled women artisans in Kenya, using age-old beading and weaving techniques passed down through generations. The result? A collection that feels both rooted in tradition and strikingly modern.
Take the Vipingo Bucket Bag. It’s got structure, soul, and serious main character energy. (Not even exaggerating.)
These pieces aren’t made in minutes — they take time, patience, and precision. And honestly? That’s what gives them their magic. The texture, the symbolism, the weight (literally and metaphorically) — you feel it all.
Oh, and here's where it gets even better: every month, JIAMINI trains and mentors over 100 women, providing income, skills, and the kind of purpose that can change entire households. (Yes, we got chills too.)
Looking for something a little more delicate but still bold enough to turn heads? The Makonge Chunky Earring adds just the right touch of sculptural elegance – they’re like mini sculptures for your ears and just the right amount of bold.
From Nairobi to the World Stage
In 2020, JIAMINI got its international moment — selected for the Ethical Fashion Initiative’s first-ever Accelerator Programme and featured at Pitti Uomo, one of the biggest fashion trade fairs on the planet. (Not bad for a brand that started with just a big idea and even bigger heart.)
And the fashion world noticed. Wallpaper Magazine spotlighted JIAMINI for its modern take on heritage craftsmanship — and we’re over here nodding like, “This is what we’ve been talking about!”
But Jennifer Mulli isn’t chasing headlines. She’s focused on real impact. For her, empowerment isn’t a trend — it’s the foundation. You can see it in the women behind the pieces and feel it when you wear them.
Ready for your final standout piece? The Masii Clutch balances timeless design with a touch of softness and just enough edge to keep things interesting — it’s a quiet showstopper.
Discover JIAMINI KENYA on ADJOAA
Have we convinced you yet? Explore JIAMINI KENYA on ADJOAA and bring home a piece of African luxury that tells a story, supports a movement, and makes you feel amazing every time you wear it.
About The Author: Crystal Tan is a marketing and communication intern at ADJOAA, pursuing a bachelor’s in Global Management at Thunderbird School of Global Management, ASU

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