Say Hello to the Founders!
Meneliswa Adindu-McDonald
As a young girl I was raised in a very business-minded household, in a small town known as Wembezi of the KwaZulu-Natal Province,
South Africa. Being business-minded was very much a survival instinct, you did what you had to do to ensure you had an income.
This is exactly what my Gogo (grandmother) has done and continues to do my very own Independent Boss Lady! …
How could I not be influenced? Naturally, by the time I emigrated to Ireland at the age of 11, my Zulu culture as well as this business-minded motive had been instilled in me. When we founded Umoja Linn, it was very much a preparation meets opportunity moment. The motivation from our side and willingness to succeed and fulfil our purpose have remained constant and un-waivered.
Outside Umoja Linn, I continue to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical sector as a biologist from which I’ve acquired non-technical skills which I’ve successfully implemented into our business. Ranging from management to critical thinking to attention to detail. On a daily basis as I reflect on how far the business has come, I’m only motivated to continuously strive to fulfil its maximum potential.
China Soribe
Kedu! I’m Chinaecherem Soribe, aka China the girl with the constant smile.
I was born in Imo State, the eastern heartland of Nigeria to two super human saints.
My parents are angels if you’ve ever met one, two medical doctors with a relentless passion to serve. Mummy worked in the Federal Medical Centre in Owerri while, Daddy was an entrepreneur running his hospitals in Ngor-okpala and Uzoagba. As a young girl I was always in awe of them.
In 2007, my Nigerian-Irish story began when the Family immigrated to Ireland.
Prior to my move, I had developed a deep love for the motherland and portrayed this in my new life in Ireland; from my never changing “Igbotic” accent, to my music, and of course my fashion. I would search for items with an Afro-feel, and style them with my everyday clothes. I am a remarkably resourceful person, yet I found it frustrating and time consuming to source these items.
Fast-forward to my University days. I realised that several people had this same difficulty with finding African inspired pieces to spice up their wardrobe. I immediately jumped on the opportunity to solve their problem. I started to bulk-buy and resell items from Umoja Linn’s first designer, the OG, Blaqq Production, and the rest is history.
I’ve always wanted to be like my parents when I grow up. Their selfless surrender and commitment to a life of service. I believe that’s why I get so much joy from co-nurturing Umoja Linn. Our dedication to serving our designers, tirelessly striving to meet their needs and encourage their self-empowerment. It brings a smile to my face every time I realise that with Umoja Linn, we are playing our part in the global normalisation of “African-ness”.
Explore our amazing community of Designers
Blaqq Production
Comfort in your uniqueness. Blaqq brings you your everyday wear with a slight touch of Ankara. Stand out, boldly or subtle, the choice is yours …
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