Paulina Mokhothu-Ogolla

My passion for design began in childhood, inspired by a love for drawing flowers and beautiful forms. This early creativity naturally led me to study dressmaking in high school, where I discovered the joy of transforming sketches into wearable art. Driven by curiosity and a desire to explore new materials, I transitioned into leatherwork—drawn by its durability, versatility, and deep cultural significance. I pursued leather product design and development at the Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI), laying the foundation for my journey into sustainable fashion. To further refine my skills, I participated in the Product Development Program by the Kenya Export Promotion Council, and enhanced my design knowledge through the Fashion Mentorship Program with Mitreeki. These experiences helped me bridge creativity with business strategy. My craftsmanship was elevated through advanced training with the Leather Industry Faculty of Skills (LFIS) in India and the MARKUP II course on Leather Manufacturing and Finishing Techniques. Each learning milestone has fueled my commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Today, as the founder and creative director of Tlhokomelo , I create products that celebrate African heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics and eco-conscious values. My mission is to craft more than just beautiful leather pieces—I aim to empower artisans, uphold cultural identity, and contribute to sustainable development in Africa. For me, design is a journey of storytelling, purpose, and passion—brought to life, one piece at a time.