Gaining inspiration from his father’s determined entrepreneurial skills back in Kenya, Chiyabi decided that clothing was the way to begin. “It’s the easiest to work with,” he says, “girls, guys, old, young—anyone can wear t-shirts.” He’s had a passion to start his own brand of streetwear[1], since he arrived at Union College three years ago. In 2011, Chiyabi realized that the clothing people wore, spread brands and ideas fast. He wanted to wear clothes he designed that reflected the things he really believed in.
In 2012, the drive and resources Chiyabi had been lacking in 2011 became realities, and a logo was born. Not surprisingly, creating a logo and name was the hardest part for Chiyabi. Originally called Dope Swag Kulture, he changed the name because it was time for him to move forward. “I feel I’ve grown as a person and a designer and ‘Dope Swag Kulture’ didn’t really express that change.” His girlfriend and main supporter, Ruby, pitched him the idea to drop the “Dope Swag” portion of the name. It made sense—Chiyabi wanted his brand to be timeless, and to have it tied down to fad terms would not achieve that goal.
Throughout our discussion, he continued to bring up his dream for the brand. As a Christian, Chiyabi is dedicated to his passion to spread a positive influence. The Kulture is his platform, and through it he wants change to come. “I want the brand to display characteristics that are Christ-like. I want it to allow people to express their individuality and good morals through the designs and phrases I put on the shirts. When I design, I think, ‘Would Jesus wear this shirt.’”
His excitement is infectious. As Chiyabi told me of his other design ideas, I wanted more and more for him to roll on with production. Phrases like, “Holla at your Maker” and “Eat, Pray, Skate” show his sensitivity to way mainstream culture works. Though only a side job currently, he intends one day to make it a full-time enterprise, connected with his own charity. His goal is to use The Kulture to spread a positive outlook to the community and his immediate surroundings.
His new marketing director and friend, Steven Foster, is just as determined to make The Kulture continue to grow. “This is more than just two kids dreaming,” says Foster, “I honestly feel we have the skill and opportunity to make this happen.” With a strong group of supporters, including his sister and friends from around the globe, Chiyabi and Steven plan to reach 1000 likes on Facebook by the end of April.
You can follow The Kulture on many platforms: facebook.com/thekulture, On Twitter and Instagram as @staykultured, and make purchases through the website, www.thekulture.bigcartel.com.
[1] A
distinctive style of casual wear consisting of comfortable jeans, t-shirts,
sneakers, and baseball caps that reflects a variety of cultures, such as hip
hop.
