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Kenya
August 9, 2024
As the world is captivated by the athletic talent in Paris, one Sinapis entrepreneur made his Olympic debut in a different way — sending off Team Kenya in style.
Dressing Kenya's Olympians provided an opportunity to showcase Kenya's prowess on and off the field. Instead of outfitting Team Kenya solely in major brands like Nike, Under Armour, or Adidas, Kenya looked to local talent.
Sinapis alumnus Job Brian Jura's company, Home254, was asked to design the travel kits Team Kenya wore to the Olympic games in Paris. “It was a privilege to have been approached to make this kit because it puts an indelible stamp on a product made by us, for us, for the international stage," he said.
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According to Job Brian, "We wanted to deliver a Kenyan brand that is fashionable, stylish, and patriotic for our athletes to represent the country to the world. It is a unique kit that has never been seen before."
The kits feature red tracksuits adorned with the colors of the Kenyan flag and intricate designs inspired by the shuka, a fabric worn by the Maasai tribe. Home254's goal was to design apparel that the athletes would feel comfortable in and be proud to wear.
“I’m so happy that people get to see what us Kenyans can do, and we don’t need to import or use other people to clothe our Kenyan athletes. So, there is a lot of pride in knowing we can do it ourselves. It is also a motivation for all the upcoming designers to know that we can do this. We do not need to outsource sporting apparel or otherwise for our people,” said Michelle Nduta, a Home254 designer.
Read what Kenya’s national news had to say about the project here.
Team Kenya’s travel kits were sponsored by Kenyan company, KBL. Mark Ocitt, KBL Managing Director, said the effort was part of their dedication to support other Kenyan businesses and showcase their ability to produce top-quality goods. “We entrusted Home 254 with this responsibility, and they have undeniably proven that Kenya possesses the talent and skill to compete with the world’s biggest brands,” he stated.
Home254 is committed to revitalizing Kenya's textile industry, promoting local production, fostering economic growth, and celebrating Kenya's rich cultural heritage. Launched in 2015, the company designs, manufactures, and sells high-quality, 100% Made-in-Kenya apparel to customers locally and internationally. With a dedicated team of 54 full-time employees, Home254 continues to make significant strides in the fashion industry.
Job Brian is a graduate of Sinapis’ Ascent program for growth-stage businesses. Over nine months, Ascent founders and their teams engage in high-impact consultations with successful advisors, attend peer-to-peer workshops, and develop strategies to achieve commercial success while driving broader impact. As these entrepreneurs tackle new challenges, refine their business models, and align their ventures with their core values and vision, Ascent provides them with opportunities to connect with investors and Christian mentorship.
Whether you have a business idea or have been running your company for years, Sinapis can help you grow your business. Our programs aren’t just theory. They are practical lessons that directly apply to your business. What you learn in class today, you will use in your business tomorrow.
