About Us

 

ABOUT US 

But first, picture a broke University student raised in a business oriented household and who happens to be an artist. "Hey I am Makena, founder of Kena. For the most part of my life I have been on autopilot and had clear set goals of this is how it goes, this is how it should be. From the 844 curriculum, to human connections, to identity, to graduating and going into corporate. It was all linear and expected.

It was not until I was in Uni doing my bachelor’s in Arts and Design, specializing in Interior Design, that I started chasing art and turning it into a business as I pursued my degree. I mean who does not want extra coins, especially the kikuyu in me. From painting commissions, to customs designs, to anything that brought me money and had fun while at it. By then my business was known as art by Makena , I know, how original. After graduating and the pursuit of a job, stable income and being ‘realistic’ , for a while I did not pursue the business as much as I wanted to. That’s adulthood for you. But again in your 20s you’ll have the urge to pursue your dreams and not think of consequences cause there’s life beyond what is deemed to be the right path, and that’s how I ended up going full time on not just a business but building a brand, Kena, with a clear vision and certainty that this is what I want to pursue in life. Its been an interesting journey but above all brought me so much joy and fulfillment. 

That is how Kena was born. From a young Kenyan girl trying to find meaning in life and being bold enough to defy the norm. Looking back I am glad for every uncertainty, anxiety, questioning my sanity, sleepless nights, I went through cause all that was preparing me for the birth of Kena. I wouldn’t have it any other way, truly."

Kena is now recognized as a stationery and lifestyle brand built around the art of gifting, both to others and to yourself. The word Kena is a verb from the Gikuyu language meaning “be happy” and that essentially translates to the sole goal of Kena, to bring joy to you and your loved ones through carefully curated products. Or you could say Kena is the abbreviated name of maKena, but hey it all comes down to the same meaning and goals as maKena means “happy one”. 

With 6+ years experience , you are guaranteed to get the best quality, unique designs , craftsmanship, customer service and an overall good shopping experience. We are truly happy to have you a part of Kena. 

Kena is not just a brand, but a reminder of daring to be different and that life is all about finding the small joys even when it seems otherwise.