Kenya is ready and a fashion revolution is brewing. Hisi Studio, founded by the visionary Angela Wanjiku, is shattering the mold by designing stylish clothing. It is specifically tailored to the needs of the visually impaired. This often-overlooked demographic can now experience fashion in a whole new way. This is thanks to Hisi Studio’s innovative incorporation of braille prints and tactile designs.
INCLUSIVITY
“We prioritize inclusivity in our designs by ensuring all our garments feature braille labels,” Wanjiku explains. “These braille labels often display inspirational messages, like ‘The less we see with our eyes, the more we see with our hearts,’. It’s serving as a powerful call for embracing diversity within the fashion world.”
Statistics highlight the significant population that Hisi Studio is empowering. The World Health Organization estimates that 39 million people globally are blind, with an additional 500 million living with visual impairments. In Kenya alone, these numbers translate to a staggering 224,000 people grappling with blindness and a further 750,000 with visual impairments. Despite this sizable demographic, the Kenyan fashion industry has historically neglected their needs.
KENYA: BEACON OF FASHION
Hisi Studio is actively dismantling these barriers, fostering a space where fashion is inclusive and accessible to everyone. One such example is Julius Mbura, a lawyer with visual impairments, who now feels a newfound sense of empowerment through fashion. “The braille and tactile designs on my t-shirt allow me to experience fashion in a way I never could before,” Mbura shares. “I can now independently decipher the message ‘Wade in the water, contend for your future,’ which is beautifully displayed alongside an artwork depicting the iconic Mount Kenya. Thanks to Hisi Studio’s thoughtful designs, I no longer need to rely on others to interpret the messages on my clothing.”
Hisi Studio’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond design. The company champions the Kenyan economy by sourcing all materials from local suppliers. Their garments are conveniently available through user-friendly e-commerce platforms and social media channels. Furthermore, Hisi Studio has ambitious plans for expansion, aiming to partner with retail stores across Kenya. This strategic move will bring the transformative power of fashion to an even wider audience.
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