Profile: Waithaka Jane – Real Leather Design Competitions

Waithaka Jane

University of Nairobi

My name is Waithaka Jane, a Graduate Architect, multidisciplinary designer, and creative storyteller with a passion for exploring the intersection of architecture, heritage, and contemporary design. Afrohemian, my practice is driven by the belief that design is more than problem-solving—it is a medium for preserving memory, celebrating culture, and creating meaningful connections between people and place. Drawing inspiration from indigenous craftsmanship, architecture, and everyday urban life, I transform cultural narratives into contemporary visual experiences through illustration, product design, and functional art. My work reinterprets traditional aesthetics with a modern design language, balancing craftsmanship, innovation, and storytelling to create pieces that are both timeless and relevant. As a designer, I am particularly interested in how objects can embody identity, history, and purpose. Whether developing architectural designs, collectible products, architectural illustrations, or culturally inspired design solutions, my goal is to create work that resonates emotionally while celebrating the richness of African material culture. I believe the future of design lies in reimagining our heritage rather than replicating it. Through thoughtful craftsmanship and contemporary interpretation, I strive to create work that honors the past, enriches the present, and inspires future generations.

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BAZOO By Afrohemian

Category: Accessories

Competitions: International

BAZOO BY AFROHEMIAN Project Description For architects, artists, and designers, rolled drawings and artworks often represent weeks or even months of work. Yet they are usually carried in generic plastic tubes that protect the work but say little about the people carrying them. "Bazoo" was born from a simple idea: what if the carrying case became part of the creative expression? Inspired by the familiar silhouette of an inverted pencil, Bazoo features a gently tapered cap that references the sharpened tip of the tool responsible for bringing ideas to life. It is a quiet nod to the creative process—where every sketch, drawing, and artwork begins with a single line. The body combines handwoven natural fibers, premium leather, and meticulously handcrafted Maasai beadwork, celebrating African craftsmanship through a contemporary product. Rather than applying decoration for its own sake, every beaded pattern is intentionally designed to tell a different visual story, with limited-edition releases ensuring that no single design becomes mass-produced. Designed to carry architectural drawings, artworks, posters, maps, and creative tools, Bazoo balances practicality with craftsmanship. The hand-beaded leather strap allows it to be worn across the body, over one shoulder, or carried by hand, transforming a functional object into a wearable design piece. At its heart, Bazoo is about giving creative work the home it deserves. It protects ideas in transit while celebrating the culture, craftsmanship, and identity of the people who create them. More than a tube, it is a reminder that the tools we use every day can be designed with the same care and creativity as the work they carry.