Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Hisi Studio is a pioneer adaptive brand, providing inclusive multi-disciplinary design solutions that rethink and include the needs of visually impaired people; to create more holistic products and sensory experiences that foster independence and dignity.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Our work caters to the product and accessibility needs of the visually impaired. We aim to empower our community in Thika by creating employment opportunities for PWDs. Additionally, we drive impact projects focused on advocacy, art education, and providing educational materials and assistive devices for children with disabilities. Our adaptive clothing designs feature textured prints and tactile readable braille phrases. For accessibility, we incorporate braille tags and washable QR codes that provide a complete description of the product and care instructions. The functionality of our tactile braille phrases makes our pieces unique and initiates conversations about disability inclusion. Through our brailling and transcription service business, we produce high-quality Braille documents and a range of Braille-related & Large Print products such as occasion greeting cards and custom Braille additions to business cards, packaging materials, and other branded items.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

There are multiple barriers that individuals with visual impairments often experience in their activities of daily living. Reliance on vision makes product and space design difficult to translate for visually impaired persons. There is a frequent lack of physical, intellectual and sensory access for VIPs often increased by inaccessibility to appropriate formats and assistive digital technologies designed to provide different sensorial experiences. This causes frustration and decreases their level of independence. The participation of individuals with visual impairments in the spaces of art and culture is still limited. Accessible consumer products such as clothing that cater to the visually impaired and other PWDs are yet to be fully explored. Also, there aren’t a lot of PWDs working within the creative economy because the skills are not provided to them in conducive accessible training facilities.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

For visually impaired individuals they’ll be able to identify specific characteristics of interest about the clothes they purchase and wear that would provide well-articulated means of communication and expression. Wearing clothes that fully represent them, boosts their self-confidence and sense of dignity as they take on activities of dressing and shopping independently. Our Braille greeting cards are perfect for celebrating all of life's moments, from birthdays to holidays to special achievements. With a variety of messages available in both Swahili and English, our cards are designed to be inclusive and thoughtful. The custom Braille additions to business cards, packaging materials, and other branded items ensure that companies’ materials are accessible to everyone and allow them to reflect their commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in everything they do.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Our adaptive clothes are targeted towards both sighted and visually impaired individuals. Our pieces are edgy and versatile, offering multiple styling options for your everyday look for all. The clothes are designed for functionality and meet contemporary trends and styles The empowered employment program in product production is aimed at persons with disability and youth from disadvantaged backgrounds in our community in Thika. For them to learn new creative skills, acquire gainful employment for their financial benefit and improve their quality of life Benefiting from the proceeds of our commerce activities, Learners with visual impairments would be able to have a constant supply of essential learning materials such as Braillers and Brailling paper. They would be engaged in wholesome creative activities of play and art for expression, and child development.

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-03-30

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

1

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

1

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

Wanjiku Angela is a multi-disciplinary designer and researcher. She believes in design as a tool for problem-solving and enhancing interactions between people, the things they use and the spaces they occupy. The University of Nairobi School of Design graduate also holds a Braille Proficiency certificate from the Kenya Institute of Special Education. She is currently a Masters candidate at the University of Nairobi School on a merit scholarship. She is an inclusion advocate driving vital conversations about disability inclusion in design. Her efforts were core to a groundbreaking Braille interactive installation at the 2024 Nairobi Design Week Festival engaging over 500 visitors. Wanjiku has also contributed to the ongoing Inclusive fashion training program by the Kenyan US embassy. She has also sat on many Ethical Fashion panels such as the “Systems for Sustainability; the Role of Diversity and Inclusivity in Shaping Wearable Design" at the 2023 East Africa Textile and Leather Week.

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

https://www.instagram.com/hisi_studio/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/hisi-studio

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

e) Secondary commodities (cars and parts, consumer durables and apparel, retail)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Our contribution to this goal is through a two-pronged approach that empowers individuals and fosters economic inclusion. First through fair wages and ethical production: we provide employment opportunities in our chain of production for youth and PWDs, demographics often facing higher unemployment rates. We also pay fair wages to tailors, beaders and printers. The factories we work with are also proven, ethical employers. Our upcoming WEZA project aims to take our commitment a step further. By training youth from disadvantaged backgrounds and PWDs in Thika with marketable skills in fashion production such as tie-dye, beadwork, and stitching, we would empower them to gain financial independence. This would also make them more employable and increase their earning potential. Their acquired skills can lead to gainful employment within the fashion industry or even self-employment opportunities. Fostering long-term financial security and reducing poverty in the community.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

3

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

By empowering persons with disabilities (PWDs) and disadvantaged youth through employment opportunities, the studio addresses the root causes of hunger and malnutrition. These individuals, often marginalized in the job market, gain access to stable incomes, enabling them to provide food security for themselves and their families. This economic empowerment reduces their vulnerability to hunger and fosters self-reliance and dignity

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

4

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Through our innovative designs and products, such as adaptive clothing and assistive devices, Hisi Studio enhances the well-being of people with visual impairments. By focusing on functionality and inclusivity, these products promote independence, confidence, and dignity among visually impaired individuals. This contributes towards their improved quality of life. Moreover, our approach extends beyond the physical products. By engaging persons with disabilities (PWDs) in meaningful work, the brand contributes to their mental and emotional health. Employment opportunities provide financial stability and also a sense of purpose and belonging. These are crucial for overall well-being. Additionally, by involving PWDs in the design process and advocating for disability inclusion, Hisi Studio is raising awareness and promoting a more inclusive society, ultimately benefiting the mental health and well-being of the broader community.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

From our business profits, we are providing necessary resources to tackle accessibility challenges for children with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairments. We have empowered learners with specialized educational materials such as braille paper reams, ensuring that the children can actively participate in the learning process. Beyond in-class materials, we have given essential assistive devices such as white canes to help bridge the gap for visually impaired students in orientation and mobility, allowing them to engage fully in their education. With the understanding that a quality education goes beyond basic literacy and numeracy. We are creating the TactART project designed to include children with visual impairments in creative activities that stimulate their development. This would involve tactile art programs, accessible musical instruments, or interactive learning experiences

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

4

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

In a society where women with disabilities often face higher barriers to employment, Hisi Studio's inclusive hiring practices promote gender equality in the workplace. By offering fair wages and creating a supportive work environment, we empower women with disabilities to participate fully in economic activities, thus reducing gender disparities in employment. Moreover, our upcoming adaptive clothing collections are designed with input from both male and female users, ensuring that the needs and preferences of both genders are addressed. This challenges stereotypes and norms regarding disability and gender roles. In addition to our employment practices and product offerings, we actively promote gender equality by participating in events and campaigns that highlight the importance of gender equality in the fashion industry and society at large. By raising awareness and promoting dialogue on this issue, we contribute to a more inclusive and gender-equal world.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

3

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

3

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

5

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

We recognize that true economic development requires inclusivity. By creating empowered employment opportunities, Hisi Studio creates a work environment that respects the rights and dignity of PWDs. When we have worked with deaf/HOH beaders, we ensure that a sign language interpreter is present to facilitate communication. In our clothing collection campaigns, we engage models with disabilities. We provide the necessary tools and facilities for their comfort. We also ensure that the production and photography teams are mindful of their language. Our efforts foster social inclusion, challenge discrimination in the workplace and advocate for the mainstreaming of disability inclusion in the fashion industry. By offering training in creative skills, we will contribute to economic growth and provide decent work in Thika. This initiative will enhance the quality of life for our employees and promote business growth and increased prosperity for the entire community.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

4

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Hisi Studio tackles inequality by actively hiring and upskilling individuals with disabilities, a demographic that often faces significant employment barriers. This integration challenges stereotypes and reduces inequality by fostering upward mobility and career advancement. By ensuring fair wages and creating opportunities for financial independence through the WEZA project, we will combat income inequality and empower individuals to contribute more effectively to the local economy. We promote inclusivity and social participation with adaptive clothing featuring braille labels, textured prints, and QR codes, making fashion accessible to the visually impaired. Our braille transcription services and large print products ensure equal access to information. Beyond our direct actions, we are inspiring others to be more inclusive, setting accessibility standards, and raising awareness about disability inclusion for broader societal change.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

We contribute to responsible consumption and production by integrating innovative, sustainable practices into our design and manufacturing processes. Our commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in our use of reclaimed fabrics EPZ run off fabric from the Maziwa market in Nairobi and locally sourced handwoven textiles. These materials not only reduce waste but also support local artisans and their communities. To further minimize our environmental impact, we employ innovative low-waste production methods such as subtraction cutting in pattern making. This technique, along with the upcycling of clothing from thrift markets, significantly reduces fabric waste. Our clothes are designed for multiple styling options allowing for consumers to maximise their use. We also prioritize the use of eco-friendly inks and dyes that are gentle on the environment, ensuring that our products are sustainable throughout their lifecycle.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

3

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

2

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

3

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

We understand that achieving the SDGs requires a collaborative effort and have within the years cultivated partnerships with various stakeholders. By working closely with the visually impaired community, Hisi Studio ensures their designs meet user needs and foster meaningful feedback loops. Collaborations with assistive technology experts keeps us at the forefront of accessibility solutions, integrating them seamlessly into our products. We have joined up in strategic partnerships with other youth led initiatives that drive impactful projects. By teaming up with initiatives like Black Albinism on the Catwalks, we have used fashion as a platform to raise awareness about disability inclusion and challenge societal norms. Collaborations with organizations like FEDWEN Kenya, have allowed us to empower deaf women by providing them with income-generating skills like beadwork creation, integrating diverse voices and talents into the fashion industry.

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

3

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

4

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

4

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

5

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

5

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

3

06.08 Justification for my startup

Our products and services improve existing solutions while introducing new elements to the market. Our offerings build on traditional fashion and assistive devices, enhancing them with textured prints, tactile braille phrases, and washable QR codes accessible through mobile phone assistive technology. These innovations foster the independence of visually impaired users, initiate conversations about disability inclusion and offer a fresh perspective on fashion and accessibility. This unique combination of fashion and technology ensures our products stand out as cutting-edge solutions in the adaptive design space. By creating adaptive designs that are both fashionable and practical, we address the unmet demands of visually impaired people with accessible, stylish, functional clothing, Furthermore, our braille transcription services and large print products extend our range, ensuring equal access to information and everyday items, solidifying our commitment to inclusivity and innovation.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors include companies specializing in adaptive clothing and assistive devices for the visually impaired, as well as traditional fashion brands. In Kenya, we are the first adaptive brand catering to visually impaired fashion consumers. Hisi Studio faces competition from international brands in the adaptive clothing market, particularly from Europe and North America, where more progressive attitudes and legislation exist towards people with disabilities Locally, Hisi Studio stands out among traditional fashion brands by integrating mobile phone assistive technology and features like textured prints and tactile braille phrases into our products. We prioritize functionality and style, creating trendy, practical clothing that enhances independence and dignity. Our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond clothing to include braille transcription services and large print products, ensuring equal access to information.

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Hisi Studio is committed to elevating the status of women's businesses in our community. We are strong believers in the ability of female entrepreneurship and leadership to spur economic expansion and positive change. Wanjiku Angela, our founder, is an inspiration to other young women, showing them that women can thrive in the business world with hard work and inventiveness. We participate in local events and initiatives that support female entrepreneurs, such as networking events, workshops, and mentorship programs. We also collaborate with women-led businesses and organizations to share resources and expertise, helping to build a supportive ecosystem for female entrepreneurs. Furthermore, we want Hisi Studio to be a space where women feel empowered and have equal possibilities for personal and professional development. Through our actions and advocacy, we aim to inspire other women in our community to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.