In Converation With We Are NBO

Words by Deqa Jama

What is the essence of We Are NBO?

Michael: We encompass a feeling and philosophy of interconnectedness. There is no real separation when you strip us down to our everyday. It’s an illusion. In one day, I could spend time in richer parts of Nairobi and in poorer parts and see how similar we all are. For example, food creativity has a way of connecting people. In Kenya, two things that stir up memories of youth are roasted maize and maembe na pilipili (mango with chilli powder and lemon). Merchants often set up by bus stops, predominantly on student routes, in front of innovatively upcycled, fully kitted food carts. This is the very essence of Kenya’s inventive nature.

Do you partake?

Michael:I love mango and chilli! I have not had roasted maize in a while but might get some tonight! In the same way, We Are NBO create pieces from brass, cow bones, horns and other upcycled materials. This is exactly what our Kenyan cottage industries are - people finding scraps and making it work.

Have you found being a black man in the global fashion industry difficult?

Michael: I have to spend a lot of time defending my passions and career choices. In fact, I am only now learning to sew because of these social undertones. It’s hard for black men to claim space but it’s not impossible. The best part of this journey is that we are always growing. I am still learning and discovering new methods and materials. We’re evolving constantly. It’s a learning curve.

What would you say to your younger self?

Michael: We Are NBO existing would have been unimaginable to me when I was young. As would the fact that I could have creative career and be doing all the things I have achieved so far. I’d tell my younger self: ‘That voice in your head saying that it’s not possible is a lie. It will not be easy but eventually things will make sense. You will finally understand why everything needed to happen the way it did, all of it was my becoming.’ I would not change my journey for anything.