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Stories behind the culture of design problems, systems and solutions. We’re talking to creatives from every corner of Africa and learning how they use design. Brought to you by Nairobi Design Week (@nairobidesignweek). Hosted by Adrian Jankowiak (@adrianj.ig) & Naitiemu (@naitiemu) Edited by GroMartian. Produced by www.nairobidesignweek.com Episodes and transcripts at www.Afrika.Design Thank you for tuning in, hope you enjoy the show! Please leave a review to let us know what you thought.
Episodes

Friday Jul 21, 2023
44 🇰🇪 African Augmented Reality | Walid Kilonzi
Friday Jul 21, 2023
Friday Jul 21, 2023
Discover the world of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality!
Join us as we sit down with Walid Kilonzi, the extended reality producer at Fallohide Africa—a cutting-edge creative studio revolutionizing Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Mixed Reality solutions.
Discover how AR, VR, and mixed reality transcend entertainment and find their real-world applications. From enhancing work environments to streamlining employee training, Walid shares captivating experiences from Kenya where extended reality is already making a significant impact. Moreover, Fallohide Africa's mission to craft original African realities that resonate with its people and support local enterprises in the digital frontier is truly inspiring. Prepare for an exciting exploration into the magic of extended reality and how it's shaping Africa's narratives and empowering its future!
This is the fourteenth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
Website: https://www.fallohide.africa
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walidkilonzi
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/walid-kilonzi

Friday Jul 14, 2023
43 🇰🇪 The Art of Thriving | Lulu Kitololo
Friday Jul 14, 2023
Friday Jul 14, 2023
Creativity changes the world!
Join us this week as we dive into the mind of Lulu Kitololo—an artist, illustrator, and designer extraordinaire behind the captivating murals of Nairobi Street Kitchen. Discover how she is reshaping the narrative from "starving artist" to one of prosperity and fulfillment. As the visionary founder of Shine, Lulu is dedicated to empowering creatives to build thriving, sustainable, and joy-filled businesses. Her passion for teaching and fostering appreciation for the creative sector is at the core of her transformative program.
Gain invaluable insights on how to not only survive but truly thrive in your design career or job. Prepare to be inspired and equipped with practical wisdom for success. Don't miss this enlightening episode that goes beyond work, addressing the vital importance of mental wellness for optimal productivity. Get ready to unlock your full creative potential and shine!
This is the thirteenth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
Website: http://www.lulukitololo.com/shine
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lulukitololo/
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/lulu-kitololo

Friday Jul 07, 2023
42 🇰🇪 Green Building Revolution | Wekesa George
Friday Jul 07, 2023
Friday Jul 07, 2023
Mass Timber! Let’s talk.
We speak with Wekesa, an architect at BuildX, a firm dedicated to human-centered design solutions that prioritize environmental performance and local resources. In this episode, he sheds light on the environmental impact of traditional construction materials like concrete and steel, which contribute significantly to carbon emissions. He proposes a game-changing solution: incorporating Mass Timber into the construction process to reduce our carbon footprint.
Wekesa emphasizes the need for a mindset shift regarding certain materials and highlights the potential of plantation forests as a sustainable resource. With Africa witnessing rapid urbanization, he urges us all to rethink our approach to construction. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn how you can contribute to building a better world.
This is the twelfth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
Website: https://www.buildxstudio.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wekesa-george
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/wekesa-george
![41 🇰🇪 The Power of Names [Special Episode]](https://deow9bq0xqvbj.cloudfront.net/ep-logo/pbblog8312352/Default_Create_an_artistic_image_that_beautifully_portrays_the_0_332c0ce1-bd76-4356-8fcc-e19a963b4eb1_1_vtpais_300x300.jpg)
Friday Jun 30, 2023
41 🇰🇪 The Power of Names [Special Episode]
Friday Jun 30, 2023
Friday Jun 30, 2023
What is the meaning or reason behind your name?
Join us as we embark on a journey exploring the power of names. At the 2023 Nairobi Design Festival's Afrika Design booth, we invited our community to share the stories and meanings behind their names. We extend our sincere gratitude to all who took part. In this episode, expect a diverse array of names from various communities and continents, along with a special story from Abigail. Thank you for being a valued member of the Nairobi Design community. Your support is truly appreciated.
Stay tuned and immerse yourself in the culture of naming!
This is the eleventh episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
IG: @nairobidesign_
Website: nairobi.design
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/afrika-design
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/the-power-of-names

Friday Jun 23, 2023
40 🇳🇬 Artistic Fusion | Inatimi ’Nazquiat’ Nathus
Friday Jun 23, 2023
Friday Jun 23, 2023
Nazquiat gives Nigerian artifacts new life through his brilliant use of photography and digital art.
Inatimi ‘Nazquiat’ Nathus is a digital artist and a prominent figure in the NFT space with his collections such as Afrotroves. Through his unique blend of photography and digital art, Nazquiat takes listeners on a thought-provoking journey, exploring the significance of Nigerian artifacts and their connection to personal identity. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that sheds light on the transformative power of art and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
Tune in to learn about the intersection of art, culture, and technology in Nazquiat's creations.
This is the tenth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
IG: @nazquiat
Behance: Inatiminathus
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inatiminathus
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/inatimi-nathus

Friday Jun 16, 2023
39 🇰🇪 Veiled Steps of Success | Marynciana Adema
Friday Jun 16, 2023
Friday Jun 16, 2023
Her Mantra: Learn, learn, learn, and LEARN!
In this episode, we meet Marynciana Adema, a multi-talented individual who defies stereotypes as a model, graphic designer, data analyst, and trained chef. Discover the unexpected steps she took to achieve success and her unique perspective on becoming a model.
Marynciana also highlights the significance of empathy in our daily lives, enabling us to better understand and connect with others. Explore the intriguing traditional practices of the Luhyas, offering a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and a fresh outlook on personal growth and cultural exploration.
This is the ninth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
IG: @cianna_lugasie
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marynciana-adema
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/marynciana-adema

Friday Jun 09, 2023
38 🇲🇦 Designing Africa’s Future | Hicham Lahlou
Friday Jun 09, 2023
Friday Jun 09, 2023
Why is it important to export Africa to the world?
Hicham Lahlou is a brilliant Moroccan designer and artist who effortlessly combines tradition, modernity, and aesthetics in his mesmerizing works. He is the founder of Africa Design Award, Africa Design Days and Special Envoy & Regional Advisor for Mena Regions & Africa of the World Design Organization. Hicham’s work transcends boundaries, captivating audiences with his thought-provoking art installations and exhibitions. His vast African heritage serves as his source of inspiration.
He highlights the importance of introducing the world to Africa, our concepts, and our creations. He goes on to emphasize the value of networking to discover people who will give you the opportunity to demonstrate your abilities. He encourages us to bond and help one another as Africans.
He invites us to explore the transforming potential of African design and to embrace our individual artistic inclinations. Hicham Lahlou is a remarkable designer whose creations continue to transform how we view African art, culture, and design.
Tune in to find out how we can grow African design beyond our borders!
This is the eighth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
IG & Twitter: @hichamlahloudesigner
Website: https://www.hichamlahlou.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hicham-lahlou
African Generation: The Power of Design: African Generation - version anglaise: The power of Design
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/hicham-lahlou

Friday Jun 02, 2023
37 🇰🇪 Design’s Transformative Touch | Leanne M’Munyori
Friday Jun 02, 2023
Friday Jun 02, 2023
How does design affect our perceptions in daily life?
In this captivating episode, we welcome Leanne, a service designer at MarathonXP. Leanne shares her insights on the powerful influence of design on our daily perceptions. Join us as we explore how even the smallest design choices shape our emotions, behaviors, and well-being.
Leanne's background in psychology adds depth to the discussion, emphasizing the importance of empathy and diversity in creating impactful solutions. Tune in now for a fresh perspective on the transformative power of design in our lives.
This is the seventh episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
Website: https://www.marathonxp.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanne-munyori
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/leanne-munyori

Friday May 26, 2023
36 🇰🇪 Style and Sisterhood | Neema Walove
Friday May 26, 2023
Friday May 26, 2023
Discover what it takes to be successful in the fashion industry!
Neema takes us into the world of fashion and her journey to the point where she launched her own company, Walove by Design. Her clothing line aims to empower women by assisting in the formation of a sisterhood centered on appreciation for women and their contributions.
She draws attention to the difficulties faced in Kenyan and other African households where creative industries, such as fashion, are considered more as hobbies than as jobs that "put food on the table." She explores Taita beading tradition because it served as a major source of inspiration for her designs that reveal the creative process.
This is the sixth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
IG & Twitter: @walovebydesign
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neema-walove
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/neema-walove

Friday May 19, 2023
35 🇰🇪 Renewed Cultural Wisdom | Sylvia Omina Otsieno
Friday May 19, 2023
Friday May 19, 2023
Sylvia walks us through the customs of the Luhya and explains how subtle rituals like naming are important for maintaining community harmony. She talks about her upbringing in the Marachi culture and her background. She emphasizes the necessity to return to earlier ways of doing things because they were sustainable by bringing up raw materials like papyrus as examples.
She goes into great detail about the things that her culture and way of life gave her inspiration, demonstrating how old methods may still be employed in place of contemporary innovations like a refrigerator. She also imparts knowledge that her grandmother taught her and that she has used in both her personal and professional endeavors.
This is the fifth episode under the ‘Shifting Narratives’ program supported by the British Council SSA Arts.
*For the best experience, please use a headset/earphones.
IG: @ominaotsieno
Website: https://ominaotsieno.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvia-omina-otsieno
Music by: Ngalah Oreyo (@ngalah_oreyo) and Mercy Barno (@merc.b_)
For the full episode transcript: https://www.afrika.design/sylvia-omina-otsieno