Michelle Olomojobi’s ‘Llulo’ brand is sprinkling a bit of the Motherland all over the world
Llulo is the epitome of for us, by us. In 2011, Michelle Olomojobi went shopping for a crop top, but failed to find something that reflected her African heritage and culture...
Llulo is the epitome of for us, by us.
In 2011, Michelle Olomojobi went shopping for a crop top but failed to find something that reflected her African heritage and culture.
The rest is history.
She bought some fabric and decided to make something that better suited both her style and her ‘people.’ A new fashion/lifestyle brand, Llulo, was born. She added a cultural twist to her tees by placing a patch of ankara fabric on them.
And Llulo isn’t just a fashion destination. It is also a brand that actively supports people of the African diaspora. Olomojobi is Nigerian and in the past has used proceeds from Llulo to buy school supplies for children in her native country.
Living by the mission to “sprinkle a bit of the Motherland all over the world,” Llulo found a place in the marketplace that at the time didn’t exist at all.
Get to know Llulo through its founder, Michelle Olomojobi.
What year were you founded?
2012.
What inspired you to launch your business?
I launched this business to express the love for my Nigerian culture and because there was a huge lack of diversity in stores.
What makes your brand/product unique?
I believe you cannot get Llulo-like items besides at Llulo. You are guaranteed to stand out. Llulo is unique because I am pushing to show Africa in modern and unconventional ways!
Why should everyone #buyblack this holiday season?
Buying black helps build the creators’ confidence! I am speaking from experience. There’s no greater feeling than when someone purchases from Llulo, without stipulations!
How do you pay it forward within your community?
We are looking to starting sewing classes to help those who have a desire to sew this winter. Some people feel like it’s just not possible. Llulo workshops will teach people of all ages the basics of sewing!
What is your business mantra?
Calm down. God is in control! Everything will work out the way it’s supposed to. I say this because Llulo is still a one-woman team.
Kimberly Wilson is a writer and social media director at theGrio. Follow her on Twitter.
