JUGGLING SCHOOL AND BUSINESS: FATUMA RAMADHAN, FOUNDER OF I KNIT KENYA

Fashion is a language that communicates volumes. Trends emerge every now and then in this ‘expressive’ industry. Fatuma Ramadhan, a crochet designer and founder of I Knit Kenya has not been left out in the imput of creativity and essence in the fashion industry. She shares her journey.

Who is Fatuma Ramadhan?

A 22nd year old journalism student turned crochet designer based in kilifi. I run the fashion label I KNIT KENYA.

How did the idea of I Knit Kenya come about?

I’m passionate for handmade creations and I have a drive for world domination and I Knit Kenya is how I want to pursue my version of success.

What does fashion mean to you?

To me fashion is a way of introducing yourself to people without having to say a word. You can tell the whole world about your personality by just the type of clothes you wear.

Which clothing brand inspires you?

I have never had a particular set style but I appreciate so many different looks and that’s how I make my pieces.

What’s the biggest challenge you face in this grind?

Keeping up with stock! You know right now I’m in college so I have attend school and deliver crochet pieces to my clients on time. It’s really hectic sometimes.


I Knit Kenya has a unique essence, where do you see it in the next 5 years?

I’m brainstorming on how to do things differently in order to prevent overworking myself. With the personal issues I face right now I might not be able to predict the future but it’s heavily interlinked with the direction my life goes in but the end goal is to create a HOUSE OF I KNIT KENYA.

Do you do men’s wear?

I do but my main focus is making women feel more beautiful in my pieces so I put all the energy in creating pieces for women.

Apart from I Knit Kenya, what else keeps you busy?

I attend college. I’m pursuing a bachelors degree in journalism at the technical university of Mombasa. So when I’m not working, I’m in school.

How has Covid-19 affected I knit Kenya?

Even before this pandemic had started I had stopped taking orders to work on collections. This period will give me time to concentrate and work on projects that I was procrastinating.

Which advice keeps you going?

That branding is so important when you’re starting your own business and working out your unique selling point is the biggest factor for success.

Parting shot

“When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on.” -Franklin D. Roosevelt