In 2009, I graduated from FIDM in Los Angeles and began my career in product design and development, with a focus on what was then a groundbreaking concept in the mainstream market: ethical fashion. While artisan-made goods had long existed through legacy retailers like Ten Thousand Villages and the late Pier 1 Imports, there was a noticeable gap—no one was bridging modern Western aesthetics with ethical, sustainable production practices.

I joined the founding team of Raven + Lily, first in Los Angeles and later in Austin, TX, where I spent eight years growing with the brand. As lead designer, my role extended far beyond product creation. I worked closely with artisan partners in multiple countries, navigating diverse cultural norms and business practices. I helped implement training systems and social development programs that enabled co-ops to grow in both structure and impact.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been designing products that celebrate traditional craftsmanship, utilize local materials, and meet modern design standards—while fostering meaningful partnerships rooted in equity and respect. Since my time at Raven + Lily, I’ve collaborated with both established brands and emerging start-ups, helping guide their paths toward more sustainable and ethical practices within the fashion market.

In 2014, I was honored to be sponsored by the Ethiopian government to work in Addis Ababa, where I provided design and development support for a jewelry and handbag initiative. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed firsthand how ethical fashion can transform lives—empowering communities with access to education, healthcare, and consistent income through beautiful, intentional retail goods.

Brands I have worked for include Raven & Lily (Burundi, Kenya, Ethiopia, India, USA, Cambodia), Sseko Designs (Uganda, Ethiopia), Aid Through Trade (Nepal), Matre Boomie (India), JOYN Bags (India), B-WAP (USA), Moringa/My Fight (Ethiopia), Village Artisan (India), Entoto Beth Artisans (Ethiopia), BluSource (USA), Purse & Clutch (Ethiopia).