A children's fashion brand is growing quickly with plans to launch in the US next year.
Akwa Baby was founded by British born Nigerian Ogo Mkparu, and is inspired by the ancient African art of storytelling, carrying a positive message of self love and the celebration of colour.
Mr Mkparu recently took the sustainable kidswear brand to three of the world's largest children's fashion trade shows; Pitti Bimbo, Playtime Paris and Playtime New York.
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Eager to launch the brand internationally, Mr Mkparu has said the first opening will be in Chicago next year.
He told BusinessLive: "My wife and I launched the business in June 2021, in between having babies number two and three! I love wearing prints from across the continent and one day on my travels to Tanzania I was having a top made for me when the tailor pointed out that the symbols in the print all carried messages, often passed between generations.
"That story really stuck with me and I said to my wife one day after feelings disheartened by the options for kids clothing, why don't we create a print with a message to empower our kids, and in fact, let's do this for all children! And so Akwa Baby was born.
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"Our first print, OBI, was created in London with designer Eddie Lyons, and through his hand drawn symbols it carries the affirmations 'I am loved, I am courageous, I celebrate colour'."
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The brand's unisex prints have been designed between London and Lagos, with the second print reflecting Mr Mkparu's parent's journey to England.
With Black History Month comes the celebration of culture and heritage, which the fashion founder believes should be a 365 days of the year mindset, but he does also recognise the value that “If Black History month had existed during my time at school I believe it would have enabled me to feel validated. It would have helped me to feel at peace with my identity and at a really challenging age.”
He added: “As a society we are turning corners day by day in the conversation of equality. I’m thankful to be witnessing this time of significant and positive change. The uplift in representation of Black people across British culture is giving us all the opportunity to open up our world and imagination to more extensive possibilities.
“Becoming a father has further enhanced my awareness of how black people are represented and the impact on our new generation. Full of pride for my heritage, Akwa Baby is a message to all children that they can grow up in a world where they feel they are valued.”