The Global African Influence Issue - Summer - '24

"Exploring Africa's Vibrant Heartbeat Globally" In our Summer Issue, we unfold the vibrant layers of Africa, focusing on its rich fashion scene, impactful philanthropy, and powerful activism. Through the lens of our many features journeys, we connect readers to the continent's lively spirit and cultural depth. From community projects and activist movements, this edition is a celebration of Africa's dynamic pulse and its global influence. It's an invitation to our readers to experience the diversity, creativity, and resilience that defines contemporary African life.

Through the Lens of a NIGERIAN Photographer Black Skin EXPOSED A perture M organ O tagburuagu’s

THE GLOBAL AFRICAN INFLUENCE ISSUE

TrooRa’s Reforestation Commitment TrooRa's reforestation commitment in partnership with a leading environmental organization, Click A Tree, advances toward a greener future through our global communities’ collective impact. For every print subscription or print copy sold, a portion of the proceeds is donated to advance our efforts to actively fight climate change. Join us in this noble cause, and let's make the world a better place, one tree at a time. Order your copy of our magazine today and help us plant more trees!

In Ghana , we plant over twenty different tree species through our reforestation system called “syntropic farming,” which creates both a forest and fruit trees, enabling the local community to eat and sell the fruit as we create a forest. We also support an educational program teaching Ghanaians entrepreneurship. In Thailand , we plant over forty different tree species, creating a habitat for elephants and other endangered animals, as well as a food source for the local community and the animals. In the Philippines , we plant thirteen different tree species and for each tree planted, we remove 1 kg of plastic from the ocean in the Philippines.

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Administrative

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CRISTINA DEPTULA LINDSAY HEIMAN ANGELIQUE REDWOOD CARY WONG STELLA POLYZOIDOU ABBY YOUNG TOBI ADEBANJO JESSE ADUMA GEORGE DIKE KATARINA SKIPIC SHAMEYKA MCCALMAN HANNAH COLLYMORE MARY-JANE DASER MAXIM SOROKOPUD SIKANDER SIDDIQUI NIDA KHAN ELOISE STARK LEON POSADA

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Director of Brand Outreach & Global Strategy Ads Manager Social Media Social Media Manager

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Contributing Photographer Contributing Photographer Contributing Photographer Contributing Photo & Videographer Contributing Photo

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p h o t og r a p h e r s

IN THIS ISSUE

A-B

AL JAZEERA ANNA ALEXIA BASILE @ARTOFUFU

BAO NGO BEN MASORA BEN WHEELER BEYONDTHESINGLE STORY BIRGITH ROOSIPUU BRIGHT DIMBA BRITANNICA CHARITY WATE CHARLES LUKWAGO CHEF OPE AMOSU CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM

C-H

DAMIAN PATKOWSKI DARIO VERONESI DUKUN

EDWARDMUNGAI.COM @GRUBCAM

HEMA VALLABH @HIKAVACHI

I-M

INTERNATIONAL FINANCECORPORATION (IFC) IRIA ADRIANO PHOTOGRAPHY

JESSICA FELICIO JON SULLIVAN

KARLY JONES @KELECHUKWWU KWESI BOTCHWAY

LE JOURNAL DU DESIGN LUCILE LLOYD

MORGAN OTAGBURUAGU MIMMI KASU @MIMMICHIMA DESIGNER MOTUNRAYO OPAYINKA NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK NATURAL HABITAT ADVENTURES NYERERE NATIONAL PARKS

N-T

PETER KALONJI

SAMANTHA TYLER COOPER SIOBHAN FYNN STUDIO

STELLA LEVI SUMMIT LA18

TECHPOINT AFRICA TRAVELANDLEISURE TRINAH KAKYO TRIPSAVVY

celebrating us, the strong, resilient, and radiant women in our communities who inspire the world with our diversity and beauty

U-Z

UBUHLE BEADS UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE CENTER UNSPLASH

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WARREN HEATH/BUREAUX WIKIMEDIA COMMONS WOMANIZER TOYS WORLD HISTORY COMMONS W-WI ITS

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c o n t r i b u t i n t e a m g IN THIS ISSUE

TOBI ADEBANJO Contributing Wr i ter

CRISTINA DEPTULA Contributing Wr i ter

JESSE ADUMA Contributing Wr i ter

KATARINA SKIPIC Contributing Wr i ter

GEORGE DIKE Contributing Photographer

ROBYN ALEXANDER| Contributing Wr i ter

STELLA POLYZOIDOU Contributing Wr i ter

CARY WONG Contributing Wr i ter

MARY-JANE DASER Contributing Wr i ter

ABBY YOUNG Fash i on Co l umn i s t

ANGELIQUE REDWOOD Contributing Wr i ter

LEON POSADA Contributing Wr i ter

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IN THIS ISSUE e d i t o r i a l t e a m

NATASHA WOLF Associate Copy Ed i tor

KIM STONE Editorial & Visual Design Director

TRYSTANNE CUNNINGHAM Executive Editor in Chief

FATJONA NEXHIPI

MORGAN BERNARD Associate Editor

ALEXANDER ELCOMBE Senior Copy Ed i tor

ASHLYN LIN Photo Editor

MARIANE BELEN Copy Analyst/ Proofreader

Editorial & Visual Content Associate Des i gner

ANDRES MALDONADO Creative Art Di rec tor

Instagram: @mabelchongjewelry Facebook: mabelchongjewelry Twitter: @mabelSF Pinterest: @mabelchongsf mabelchong.com

e d i t o r s n o t e '

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ear TrooRa Readers, The Summer Issue takes us an ocean away from our home in the Bay Area, to Africa, the birthplace of civilization. The Summer Issue doesn't just shine a light on the innovation and creativity bursting out of the mother continent; it hands a megaphone to those leading the charge. The Summer Issue takes a broad and inclusive approach, highlighting movers and shakers in a myriad of industries, from artists and filmmakers attracting new attention to the continent to chefs and designers bringing traditional African influence to the masses. TrooRa's talented team of contributing writers tactfully wades into the complicated issues plaguing Africa—like the stigma surrounding mental health—and brings attention to the leaders fighting for change in these spaces.

It's no secret that Africa is a land of creativity, full of artisans who honor tradition while searching for innovation. Our team interviewed leading creators in fashion, world-renowned chefs, and daring designers. Beyond the arts, our writers looked to the growing technology sector in the continent to spotlight innovators and entrepreneurs making waves in tech. Turn the page and immerse yourself in all things Africa in our latest Summer Issue. Happy reading.

Morgan Bernard Associate Editor

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elcome to TrooRa’s Global African Influence issue, where we celebrate one undeniable fact: Africa isn’t just influencing the world—it’s redefining it. This issue is our love letter to the global ripple effect of African culture, creativity, and innovation. We’ve gathered stories that highlight Africa's rich legacy and how it’s shaping everything from fashion to food, art to activism, and beyond. Africa’s cultural heartbeat echoes everywhere. Chef Kavachi Ukegbu takes us on a culinary adventure with the Art of Fufu, mixing tradition with global appeal. Then there’s gumbo queen, Mary Campbell, stirring up flavors from her grandmother’s kitchen to honor the Great Migration and its lasting influence on American soul food. African food meets the world, and the world is hungry for more. In fashion, we’ve got Victor Anate, the creative genius behind Vicnate, who marries the modern with the timeless. His designs are as bold as a Lagos sunrise and just as striking in Paris, New York, or Milan. Meanwhile, Nigerian photographer Otagburuagu is redefining beauty standards globally, capturing the radiance of Black skin and the unshakable strength of Black women. He’s shifting the lens—literally and metaphorically. Our art section pulses with the childlike wonder of Francis Essoua (Enfant Précoce), whose vibrant pieces transport you to a world where creativity knows no bounds. And don’t miss Jilchristina Vest’s mural, honoring the women of the Black Panther Party—a powerful blend of art and activism that spans continents.

But Africa’s influence isn’t confined to galleries and runways. We’re seeing it in innovation, too. Take Kigali, a city rising from its history to become a tech hub for the world, or Lumka Jordan, who’s revolutionizing design with her mobile kitchen island—proof that African creativity knows how to tackle even the most modern challenges like load shedding. Africa is turning problems into solutions with style to spare. And let’s talk about beauty—clean beauty, to be exact. Brands like Nokware Skincare are proving that Africa has always had the answers to healthy, natural living. They’re taking age-old secrets and packaging them for today’s world, leading the global charge for sustainable, clean beauty. We’re also inspired by the story of Scott Harrison, founder of charity: water, whose journey began in West Africa. His work bringing clean water to millions worldwide stands as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and action. Harrison’s story reminds us of the deep connection between Africa and global humanitarian efforts— showing that a single mission can change countless lives across the globe. From Trinah Kakyo fighting for LGBTQ rights on an international stage to Tony Green’s AP African American Studies class shaping the next generation of thinkers, Africa’s influence is felt in ways big and small, local and global, personal and political. It’s complex, layered, and endlessly fascinating. Explore the stories, and see how the continent is weaving its magic across the globe. A+

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CONTENTS

Troo Spotlight

APERTURE BLACK SKIN EXPOSED

Home Design

194 African Delight

CRAFTSMANSHIP IN KWAZULU-NATAL

108

CRAFTING IDENTITY

Culinary

IN SOUTH AFRICA’S CAVERSHAM VALLEY LIES AN EXTRAORDINARY FARM ON WHICH CREATIVITY TAKES CENTER STAGE.

122 130 142

WHAT YOU KNOW ABOUT FUFU

SPICING UP HOUSTON STIRRING UP HISTORY

Art, Music & Film

Spicing up Houston CHEF OPE AMOSU’S BLEND OF TRADITION AND NIGERIAN INSPIRED CULINARY EVOLUTION 130

Travel

194 216 224 234

AFRICAN DELIGHT

154 168

MEET TRINAH KAKYO

MOVEMENT ENFANT PRÉCOCE

SECRET SPLENDOR IN AFRICA

STRINGS OF TRADITION LIGHTS CAMERA AFRICA

Vintage-inspired yet refined and modern colored glass collection that starts a revival of colored glass that is reminiscent of a past time.

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314

Fashion

The Essence of Nokware Skincare BUILT ON THE FOUNDATION OF GENERATIONAL AFRICAN WISDOM, NOKWARE SKINCARE IS ELEVATING THE CLEAN BEAUTY GAME

244 268

MIMMI KASU CULTURAL COUTURE VICNATE TIMELESS DESIGNS FOR MODERN DAY STYLE URBAN AND AFRICAN FASHION

284

Beauty

Urban and African Fashion THE FUSION OF URBAN AND TRADITIONAL FASHION, A SYNERGY THAT WORKS

300

AFRICA´S TIMELESS CLEAN BEAUTY MOVEMENT

314

NOKWARE SKINCARE

Wellness

328

MENTAL HEALTHCARE IN AFRICA TODAY

338

CHANGE CADET THE DOCTOR OF DIVERSITY

352 362 Technology Influential People SILICON SUB-SAHARA

LEAD INNOVATORS FROM AFRICA

374 388

THIRST FOR CHANGE

RANK AND FILE WOMEN OF THE BLACK PANTHER PARTY PRESERVING BLACK HISTORY

400

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70 i o s p t t i h o

APERTURE: BLACK SKIN EXPOSED BY: TRYSTANNE CUNNINGHAM

7 1

perture

BLACK SKIN EXPOSED

The Celebration of African Beauty Through the Lens of Photographer Morgan Otagburuagu.

WRITTEN BY TRYSTANNE CUNNINGHAM PHOTOGRAPHED BY MORGAN OTAGBURUAGU

their beauty a focal point of his artistic journey. He is dedicated to highlighting the beauty of Black skin, which is both personal and profound. He reflects on his own experiences and the societal challenges he has observed within his community. Otagburuagu's passion for photography began early. At the age of eight, he was gifted a Keystone compact camera, which he used to capture family gatherings. This early exposure to photography laid the foundation for his future career. Although he initially pursued fashion, his interest in photography became a serious consideration when he turned twenty. His love for the fashion world and his curiosity about professional photography led him to explore this art form through YouTube videos, which ultimately shaped his path as a photographer.

n this Issue, TrooRa Magazine features the vibrant and influential work of a highly unique Nigerian photographer whose art pays homage to the strength of Black women and the iridescent beauty of Black skin. His journey is one of passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to changing societal perceptions of Black beauty. “How do we choose a cover from all of these stunning, exquisite images? This is a brilliant problem to have as the editor of a publication,” says Trystanne Cunningham, editor- in-chief of TrooRa magazine. Morgan Otagburuagu's work is a celebration of Black beauty, focusing on the strength and allure of Black women. Growing up, he witnessed the discrimination faced by darker-skinned individuals, especially women, which fueled his determination to make

“I wanted to open that conversation and have them be more accepting of their beautiful skin and know it isn’t a problem.”

- MORGAN OTAGBURUAGU

rowing up in Abia State and Lagos, Otagburuagu

was greatly influenced by his vibrant surroundings. The celebration of life among

Lagosians—their warmth, vibrancy, and beauty—is vividly reflected in his work. These influences have shaped his artistic vision, allowing him to capture the essence of his subjects in a way that is both authentic and inspiring. Challenging societal perceptions of Black beauty has always been a driving force behind his work. From a young age, Otagburuagu saw how being Black was often stigmatized and how darker-skinned women were unfairly labeled. He was determined to open a conversation about this discrimination and encourage acceptance and appreciation of Black beauty. His work inspires Black women to embrace their skin and recognize its inherent beauty. Otagburuagu's mastery of light is a hallmark of his photography, drawing inspiration from the works of Dutch painter Rembrandt. "Photography means painting with light, so lighting is the base of any successful photography” project, says the perfectionist. And like a painter, Otagburuagu often sketches a visual representation of his intended image before his shoots. This meticulous preparation allows him to see what works and what doesn't, letting creativity flow as he collaborates with his subjects. His approach to shooting Black women requires a deep knowledge of light to enhance their natural beauty, and he often uses a beauty dish as his go-to light modifier.

lightening using harmful chemical products. The World Health Organization reports that 77 percent of Nigerian women use skin-lightening creams, which pose significant health risks, including skin cancer. This project reflects his personal loss and tackles a critical issue affecting many women. Living in Lagos significantly impacts Otagburuagu’s work. The city is often likened to New York, and it is filled with multicultural settlers whose stories inspire his art. Lagos’s vibrant culture helps him convey bold and clear messages through his photography. The growing community of African artists eager to tell their own stories further motivates him. For Otagburuagu, art is a way of life that is integrated into his daily routine and interactions. He sees art in everything, from household chores to acts of selflessness. This philosophy drives his creative process and influences every aspect of his work. Looking to the future, Otagburuagu envisions his work reaching a global audience and expanding into community building. He aspires to tell stories on a global scale and help others through his art. Through his art, Otagburuagu hopes to inspire young photographers in Africa and beyond, and he encourages them to start making changes without waiting for perfection. His work also aims to spark conversations around self-love and the appreciation of Black women, promoting a message of hope and empowerment.

alancing elements of fashion, beauty, and still life in his photography poses unique challenges. Fashion photography, in particular, involves coordinating a large team of stylists, makeup artists, and directors. Despite these challenges, Otagburuagu excels in creating visually compelling images seamlessly blending these elements.

Videography is another dimension of Otagburuagu's creative portfolio. It offers a different feel from still images, providing a dynamic aspect to his documentation. Although his approaches to videography and still photography are similar, the application and delivery differ, allowing him to explore new storytelling techniques. At twenty-seven, Otagburuagu has already gained significant recognition in the art world. Despite the pressures of constantly posting on social media and getting engagement and recognition, prioritizing quality allows him to maintain the integrity of his work, ensuring that each piece resonates deeply with his audience. Adding to his achievements, Otagburuagu's recent inclusion in Photo Basel 2024 in Basel, Switzerland, further underscores his growing recognition in the art world. One of his most meaningful projects is In Bloom, which debuted in London last year. This project was his first complete work in two years, following the passing of his parents in 2021. In Bloom addresses the issue of skin bleaching and

“African culture is the pinnacle of most modern-day civilization and the art world.”

- MORGAN OTAGBURUAGU

“My work celebrates Black skin and tells stories of lack of acceptance.”

- MORGAN OTAGBURUAGU

tagburuagu's work seamlessly blends African traditions with modern influences. As a photographer based in Africa, he believes in keeping stories authentic by employing narratives told by Africans for Africans. African culture, which has significantly influenced global art and photography, remains at the heart of his work. high standards of quality and my editorial expectations. This collaboration was not just a significant moment in our partnership but also a milestone in both of our careers. Otagburuagu's artistic vision and Priestly’s dynamic presence resulted in a powerful statement of excellence and artistic innovation. O As TrooRa magazine’s Founder and Creative Director, I've long admired Morgan Otagburuagu's extraordinary talent since I first discovered his unforgettable work on social media. When I learned he would be in London for his In Bloom exhibition in September 2023, I saw the perfect opportunity to bring him on board as a staff photographer. This aligned beautifully with our need for a cover shoot for the Art Issue '23, allowing Morgan to collaborate with artist Dameon Priestly. Even though I was in California and couldn’t be on set, I was deeply involved, staying in close communication with both Morgan and Dameon to ensure that the final product met TrooRa’s

“To be a beacon of hope and new voices, I want my work to keep sparking conversations around self-love and appreciation of Black women.”

- MORGAN OTAGBURUAGU

he TrooRa team is currently working on collaborating with Morgan on numerous upcoming projects, promising even more groundbreaking work to look forward to. Morgan Otagburuagu's path in the art world demonstrates the transformative

power of creativity to challenge perceptions, inspire change, and celebrate the beauty of Black skin and Black women. His evocative, stunning images continue to spark meaningful conversations and shape the global art scene. At TrooRa, we are immensely proud and honored to have Morgan on our team. We enjoy the constant challenge of choosing from an expansive library of photos from Morgan’s shoots for TrooRa’s projects. His contributions have been invaluable, and we eagerly anticipate many more collaborative projects with him. Our relationship with Morgan fills us with immense pride, and we are excited to see him thrive and grow as an artist, a photographer, and a human being. Otagburuagu's dedication and talent highlight the elegance and strength of Black women and pave the way for future generations of African artists to tell their stories with pride and creativity.

MORGANOTAGBURUAGU.COM

Otaburuagu Morgan “Photography means painting with light, so lighting is the base of any successful photography.” - MORGAN OTAGBURUAGU

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d e s i g

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n d e s

096 CRAFTSMANSHIP IN KWAZULU-NATAL BY: KATARINA SKIPIC 108 CRAFTING IDENTITY BY: KATARINA SKIPIC

CRAFTSMANSHIP Hailing from the small town of Ladysmith, the birthplace of a Grammy- awarded acapella group, Bright Dimba’s creative spirit draws deeply from his roots to craft unique art and designs. KWAZULU-NATAL in

BRIGHT DIMBA IS RESHAPING THE INTERIOR DESIGN LANDSCAPE THROUGH COMMUNITY UPLIFTING.

discovered this amazing young artist in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, a province with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that takes your breath away. Ladysmith, nestled in the uThukela District, is a place where history and tradition run deep. The town, named after Juana María de los Dolores de León Smith— the wife of British General Sir Harry Smith— has long been imprinted on the cultural map of South Africa. Its streets hum with the melodies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, whose acapella harmonies have resonated worldwide and brought a Grammy Award to this vibrant small community. The group's path from local performances to international stages influenced many, including Bright Dimba, the son of the Dukada clan. "I grew up in Ladysmith, surrounded by music," Dimba reflects. "Black Mambazo’s journey from our small town to global recognition inspired me. It showed me that our work can resonate with the world even from a modest place."

WRITTEN BY KATARINA ŠKIPIĆ

“The Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s journey showed me that our work can resonate with the world even from a modest place.”

- BRIGHT DIMBA

“Most people move to big cities for recognition, but I wanted to bring it back to my small town, to develop it through creativity and design.”

Grammy Award to this vibrant small community. The group's path from local performances to international stages influenced many, including Bright Dimba, the son of the Dukada clan. "I grew up in Ladysmith, surrounded by music," Dimba reflects. "Black Mambazo’s journey from our small town to global recognition inspired me. It showed me that our work can resonate with the world even from a modest place." Dimba's creations use traditional craft to achieve contemporary aesthetics, creating visually striking and no less culturally significant pieces. As an interior designer and photographer, he finds endless inspiration in his surroundings—the rolling landscapes near the Drakensberg Mountains and the rich traditions of his Zulu origin. "Living close to a World Heritage site has always had an impact on me," he explains. "Its immense beauty is a constant reminder that our local environment holds so much potential." uKhahlamba (the "Barrier of Spears," also known as the Drakensberg Mountains) is indeed a majestic escarpment range stretching over 1000 km. The towering peaks resemble spears or the spines on a dragon's back, intercepting lush valleys, water catchments, and ancient rock art sites. It's easy to see how deeply such a backdrop influences Dimba's artistic vision. He is one of those rare young professionals who choose to return to small hometowns after studying and working in larger cities. "Most people move to big cities for recognition," he says. "But I wanted to bring it back to my small town, to develop it through creativity."

STRONGER TOGETHER Bright Dimba's dedication to integrating traditional skills with modern design led him to establish Dukada in 2017, an artisanal crafts company based in Ladysmith. Turning many dreams into reality, Dimba's Dukada collaborates with rural women crafters from his hometown, specializing in designing and producing unique, handwoven, colorful furniture and accessories. "For me, it's about bringing acknowledgment back to traditional craft and promoting a new wave of craftsmanship in modern South Africa," Dimba says. "My work is inspired by everyday spaces, objects, and people. Through photography, I capture these inspirations for the mood boards I create to conceptualize new ideas." His creative process involves consulting local craftswomen about designs and materials, allowing them to evaluate and contribute additional concepts. While providing employment to his community, with such a wholesome approach he’s also preserving traditional weaving practices. One of Dukada's standout products is the side table- cum-stool, a contemporary woven version of the short and stumpy chair known as isigqiki—a typical item in Zulu households. "The product is a twist of the conventional African decorative items found in the marketplaces across the country," Dimba explains. This creation became one of the showpieces at the Design Indaba Festival, where Dimba participated as an Emerging Creative. During the exhibition, he also launched his Dukada Ukhamba Glass Vase, which incorporates a woven base mimicking the popular Zulu clay beer pot of the same name.

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world of mass production, our handcrafted pieces stand out," he says. "They carry the stories and skills of our people." And indeed, Dimba's designs extend beyond aesthetic appeal; they are a lifeline for many in his community. "Most of the people I work with are unemployed women with children. By teaching them these crafts, they not only gain a skill but also a sense of purpose and hope. When you see these women at exhibitions, their participation is so much more than monetary. It motivates them and evokes their artistic sides, inspiring them to create more." In an area with scarce employment opportunities, his empowering projects also provide much-needed income. "It's significant because even while looking for work, they still need transport money to get to town. By bringing work to their homes, we eliminate that barrier." With a big smile that has accompanied our entire conversation, Dimba concludes: "Weaving our traditions into modern design environments is a way to ensure they are never forgotten. It's about creating something that honors our past while embracing our future."

Beer is a major element of the Zulu people's social culture. Their women have been brewing it longer than history remembers. To this day, traditional homemade brews make a ubiquitous treat for weddings and all kinds of celebrations. "The Zulu beer pot is still a functional container in our culture," he explains. "By integrating it into modern glass vases, I preserve its traditional significance, at the same time making it relevant to today's interiors." TRADITION IN A TELEPHONE WIRE Dimba's design concepts are deeply rooted in the practices he observed and learned as a child. "I came across telephone wire weaving, a craft I remembered from my childhood," he says. "Seeing how these household objects could be integrated into modern design spaces was a revelation." This method later became a cornerstone of his creative work, an unexpected channel for transcending traditional crafts into luxury products. "I buy the glass vases and the telephone wire, and then the local women weave around them," he says. "It's a way to integrate their skills into my designs while keeping the cultural essence intact." This dedication to community and culture also makes his work genuinely unique. "In a

“In a world of mass production, our handcrafted pieces stand out. They carry the stories and skills of our people.”

- BRIGHT DIMBA

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stoneandsawyer.com

Designed and hand-produced stoneware ceramic table lamps from the Catskill Mountains of New York

THE WORLD’S FINEST HIDE RUGS

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From sketching dresses in a South African township to revolutionizing custom cabinetry, Lumka Jordan’s journey is everything but conventional. Her latest innovation—a mobile kitchen island—addresses load shedding and economic disparities, proving that thoughtful design can indeed transform lives.

108 Identity CRAFTING

Anonymous to Acclaimed Lumka Jordan the Resilient Visionary

WRITTEN BY KATARINA ŠKIPIĆ IMAGES BY SIOBHAN FYNN STUDIO , IRIA MARINA PHOTOGRAPHY

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her creative instincts to flourish inside a more secure framework.

The bureaucratic entanglement had profound implications: "Everywhere I went, I had to explain the situation." Without proper files and deprived of admission to educational institutions, she was forced to sit still as her peers advanced, which took an immense psychological toll. "At some point, I even ran away from home for two weeks just to come to terms with it," she confides. Despite the emotional turmoil, Jordan persevered, enrolling in smaller colleges with less stringent administration. It wasn't until she was twenty that she finally received her proper birth certificate. As if she were making up for the time lost, Jordan then acquired several diplomas, including one for Project Management and Interior Design, followed by a B-tech in Architectural Management.

"I used to draw dresses and costumes," Lumka Jordan recalls with a nostalgic smile spreading across her face. Growing up in a South African township, her girlhood was filled with vibrant sketches hinting at a future in fashion design. But life is rarely in the mood to follow early projections, and pragmatic pressures steered her career realities pushed her towards a reliable choice with a higher chance to secure her financial future. Architecture was seen as a more favorable profession than fashion design. "In those years, especially growing up in a township, our parents wanted us to choose careers that would bring in money," Jordan explains. Guided by her brother, she pursued architecture and interior design, which still allowed toward a different path. South Africa’s economic

STRUGGLE FOR RECOGNITION Jordan's life has been marked by uncommon challenges, including a bureaucratic nightmare that spanned two decades. Born in the 1990s, just before the historic South African elections, she faced an identity crisis caused by a clerical error at the Department of Home Affairs. Her documents were duplicate versions of her sister’s, creating a legal and personal quagmire. "I didn't even have a proper birth certificate," Jordan says with a gentle smile and a certain level of acquired stoicism in her voice. Little did she know that this mix-up would even prevent her from attending university.

“In a market where the default is often the cheapest option, my competitive edge is my design quality and how I engage with my clients.”

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THE VOICE OF A TRUE CALLING With her identity status issues resolved, Lumka Jordan pursued a professional career in architecture and interior design, specializing in creating bespoke kitchens, wine cellars, and custom cabinetry. Reflecting her varied expertise, her designs are marked by aesthetic precision and structural integrity. "I discovered a field that perfectly blends my architectural knowledge, creative flair, and project management skills," she says. In South Africa, the market for custom-designed cabinetry is small and therefore competitive, and also not devoid of curiosities. Unlike many other parts of the world where handmade design is considered a luxury, in South Africa, we find entirely different dynamics at play. The presence of affordable carpenters actually renders handcrafted cabinetry a cost- effective solution—albeit not always the best one. "Most people gravitate towards getting a carpenter to put something together," Jordan notes. "I'm trying to bridge that gap by showing clients the long-term benefits of an adequately designed kitchen that fits their space and lifestyle," she says. Jordan's approach truly sets her apart. She strongly emphasizes client engagement, making them an integral part of the design process. "Clients here often lean towards trends, especially for kitchens," she observes. The spirit of traditional African design comes through more in the interior decorating aspects—prints, fabrics, and accessories."

EXPANDING HORIZONS BY MISS JORDAN Cabinetry by no means marks the limit of Lumka Jordan's entrepreneurial spirit. Under the brand umbrella of Miss Jordan, the creative director and founder of DIZAIN also launched several new lines, each reflecting different facets of her ideation. "iPhunga" is a home fragrance collection of handmade reed diffusers and room sprays. "Dyala," named in honor of her father, showcases bespoke wine furniture, while "Marble Bones" offers homewares like cutting boards and kitchen essentials. One of the less predictable chapters in Lumka Jordan's career is her collaboration with Iron Banister, a steel furniture manufacturer. It began serendipitously when a client requested a unique design featuring a metal structure integrated with cabinetry. "The client specifically wanted Iron Banister to fabricate the steel components for her kitchen," Jordan explains. This project also led to Lumka’s creation of the Tetris Shelf, a system composed of steel rods and rectangular boxes cascading down a wall like pieces from the classic video game, that she proudly highlights as one opened up my mind as a designer," Jordan reflects. The experience of seeing her products come to life in the factory allowed her to understand the material and its possibilities better, which affected subsequent designs: of her best designs. "Working with steel

“I wanted to create something that looks beautiful and is functional. It’s meant to bridge the gap between the haves, the have-nots, and everyone in between.”

aesthetically pleasing, structurally sound, and manufacturable.

DESIGNINDABA.COM/PROFILES/LUMKA-JORDAN DIZAINPRONOUNCED.CO.ZA

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that Lumka Jordan's vision extends beyond merely creating beautiful spaces. She seeks to address real- world issues with innovative solutions, making a positive change in her community and beyond. Judging by its direction, her work will continue to prove that design can be as accessible as it is impactful.

backgrounds, the design is particularly beneficial for those in informal settlements or smaller homes without

(EM)POWERING THE COMMUNITY Looking ahead, Jordan remains excited about the future and its opportunities. Her latest project is designed to help the community by addressing the challenges of load shedding in South Africa. "I've come up with a design for a mobile kitchen island that works as an appliance but is still a cabinet," she shares enthusiastically, "It's equipped with an integrated gas hob and electrical outlets to connect appliances like a blender or a kettle. The wheels allow you to move it around and plug into any available power source." Conceived to cater to households of all economic

space for a permanent island. Jordan is acutely aware of the economic

disparities that many of her compatriots face. "In South Africa, households often can't afford a tailored kitchen," she notes. "I'm working on making these mobile islands available to people living in informal settlements and RDP [Reconstruction and Development Programme] houses," she says. "It's about improving their quality of life with something affordable and functional." Before our conversation ended, it became clear to me

“Design isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about functionality and improving lives.”

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Plant-based designs bringing the outside in & celebrating the natural world

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SPARSANDMINIMAL.COM

A VESSEL COMPANY

TIMELESS AND UNIQUE VESSELS. MODERN MINIMALISTIC CERAMICS AND PAPER MACHÉ VESSELS HANDMADE TO FILL YOUR HOME.

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y 122 WHAT YOU KNOW ABOUT FUFU? BY: CARY WONG 142 STIRRING UP HISTORY BY: CARY WONG 130 SPICING UP HOUSTON BY: CARY WONG

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A s a cookbook writer, educator, and Nigerian food and culture ambassador, Houston native Chef Kavachi Ukegbu juggles multiple plates. Even as we started the interview, she was on the run managing multiple projects. A third-generation food and beverage professional, she was the second oldest of six sisters. Her mother Margaret Jason opened Safari, one of the first Nigerian restaurants in Houston. Growing up in the popular restaurant meant that she was always exposed to Nigerian culture. Though Houston has always had a diverse culinary landscape with a multitude of flavors from around the globe, Nigerian cuisine was not well known in the 1980s and 1990s. Despite having a thriving Nigerian community, considered the biggest in the United States, Nigerian food was still a mystery to most people in the city.

The widespread ignorance to the joys of Nigerian food made an indelible mark on Chef Kavachi. During her school’s International Day, the students were asked to bring in a dish from any country. Being a proud Nigerian, she begged and pestered her mom to cook a traditional red stew for the event. Despite her enthusiasm, her teacher decided not to serve the food simply because she was unfamiliar with it. Indeed, it was through moments of adversity, such as that childhood incident, that Chef Kavachi realized the importance of cultural exchange and dialogue. “I'm so happy that this generation we're in, there're so many resources. So many opportunities for someone to learn if they want to learn,” Chef Kavachi reflects on the difference between those days and now. “Especially in Houston, we have a lot of people that come here from all around, and are so open to trying different foods if you just tell them, ‘cause you don’t know what you don’t know. But what you do know is ‘it smells good, and I’m hungry!’” With a passion for sharing her culinary heritage, Chef Kavachi embarked on a journey to bridge cultures through food, culminating in the creation of the Art of Fufu cookbook. It was a long and difficult process, with multiple trips to Nigeria to obtain the proper recipes, engaging stories, and colorful photos for publication. This innovative endeavor not only celebrates the diversity of Nigerian cuisine but also serves as a conduit for preserving and passing down traditions to future generations. And what exactly defines Nigerian cuisine? At its core lies the beloved staple dish, fufu. "Fufu is more than just a meal; it's a way of life," Chef Kavachi explains. Made from a variety of gluten- free ingredients like yams, cassava, or rice, fufu embodies the essence of

WRITTEN BY CARY WONG WHAT YOU KNOW AB O U T F U F U Chef Kavachi Ukegbu and the Growth of Nigerian Food and Culture

PHOTOGRAPHED BY @HIKAVACHI , @ARTOFUFU , @GRUBCAM

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Outside the Kitchen C culture to those who have not yet ventured outside their cultural bubble. hef Kavachi also runs Grubido, a consulting organization and foundation that is focused on promoting West African food

Fufu. They are curated around Nigerian culture. In these events, Iraditions and culture are displayed—not just visually but also sensorily. Guests can smell the soups and mix and match to see which soup and fufu pairs they like. One of the things Chef Kavachi noticed during these events was that the different Nigerian tribespeople, like

Nigerian comfort food. Due to its filling and nutrient-rich nature, it is often the food that children eat when they do not feel like eating. Paired with an array of soups, each tribe adds its unique touch, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds and nourishes the soul. Chef Kavachi even went as far as saying that, if her personality were a dish, the main ingredient would definitely be fufu which comes with a flavorful, 15-ingredient soup. “You gotta season the meat. You gotta prep it. You gotta let it marinate, and then you gotta start chopping up the vegetables. You gotta start putting some oil to it,” she says excitedly. “So, it's like my life is so flavorful with different ingredients!” Texan–Nigerian Connection C hef Kavachi’s cooking style is influenced by American, especially Texan, ingredients and palates. She uses Texan methods , with Nigerian spices to season the dishes. She also embraces the local traditions of big servings of delicious food with lots of flavor and heat. Chef Kavachi often uses similar cultural touchpoints to explain the food to people from other cultures. Her spicy red rice shares some similarities with Mexican and Spanish red rice. Even though there are different nuances, these similarities act as a good starting point to attract customers from different backgrounds. She explained that if someone, wants to dip their toes into her Texas-influenced “Tex-Naija” food, she would ask if they are a visual eater or a texture eater. From there, she can better cater to their preferences. For example, a visual eater who likes greens would probably like vegetable soup. Or a peanut soup would suit someone who likes savoriness. She has different tools in her arsenal to build cultural bridges for people from all walks of life. In addition to the aforementioned cookbook, she also runs a series of art shows that are also—not coincidentally—called Art of

is a product line for The Art of Fufu, which would offer her customers access to the cookbook as well as the ingredients needed to start making various soups in their homes. Her second launch is the new Grubido website, Grubido.com, which should be up in late December. Last are her new popsicle line, which will be on the market soon, and the work needed for the upcoming Art of Fufu show. As the interview drew to a close, the oppressive Houston heat caused Chef Kavachi’s cell phone to malfunction. After a successful reconnection, she elaborated more about her passions and visions. One cannot help but feel that her enthusiasm and tenacity—also shown when she fought through the problematic reception to her culture’s cuisine—will bring Nigerian food and culture to new heights!

Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo, to name a few, usually stick to their own food. Due to the geographic divide, they have little exposure to one another’s dishes back home. But as they are now all grouped as “Nigerians” in the United States, they tend to be more united. On occasions such as these, they could try out what the other tribes eat in a judgment-free manner. In addition, she promotes and participates enthusiastically in the National Fufu Day on August 11. This is something that reaches outside the Nigerian community and closes the cultural gap with the general public.

Her goal right now is to make Grubido an online resource and a hub for news and education for people who want to know more about African food in general. To that end, the organization is working with the State of Texas to get clarity on various Nigerian products and their import procedure. Currently, when Nigerian ingredients arrive at the border, the state authorities do not have the requisite knowledge to identify what they are. This makes the importation process very difficult. The hope is that, once the work is done, everything will be much smoother and imports can happen the right way. Meanwhile, Chef Kavachi is in the midst of several new ventures. First

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