Victoria Kageni rise from a small farm in Mombasa, Kenya, to having her designs grace the Oscars red carpet is a testament to persistence, creativity, and an unwavering passion for fashion. Overcoming numerous obstacles, including raising four children as a single mother and navigating career shifts, Kageni's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of following one’s dreams, no matter the challenges.
From Mombasa to the Fashion Industry
Growing up on a farm near the serene Diani Beach, Kageni's love for fashion began at a young age. Inspired by her grandmother, a skilled seamstress, she started sewing at just six years old. This early connection to the art of fashion design paved the way for what would become an incredible journey.
With supportive parents who recognized her talent, Kageni was sent to the United States in the early 90s to pursue a degree in Fashion Design at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Despite some skepticism from friends and family who viewed fashion as less significant than other high-paying professions, her parents supported her dream.
Instagram | gusabyvictoria | Kageni's early exposure to her grandmother's sewing ignited her lifelong passion for fashion.
Career Shifts and Personal Struggles
Though fashion was her passion, life had other plans. As a single mother, Victoria Kageni faced the harsh reality of needing financial stability. She made the difficult decision to step away from fashion and entered the field of engineering. In 2003, she became a certified operating engineer, joining the International Union of Operating Engineers and working on high-profile projects, including the demolition of Philadelphia's Veterans Stadium.
Though successful in her new career, the demands of the job took a toll on her ability to balance work and family. In 2016, after leaving the engineering field, Kageni returned to her first love—fashion—and launched her brand, Gusa by Victoria.
The Birth of Gusa by Victoria
"Gusa by Victoria" was founded with the goal of celebrating cultural diversity through fashion, art, and jewelry. The name "Gusa," meaning "to touch" in Swahili, reflects Kageni's deep connection to her roots and her desire to create designs that resonate on a personal level. Her pieces, often infused with African prints, blend traditional designs with Western silhouettes, creating unique, eye-catching garments.
Her designs gained attention locally, but it wasn’t until a fortuitous encounter with Cindy Owens, mother of Oscar-winning film producer Erin Owens, that Kageni’s work reached the global stage. Owens was looking for something special to wear to the Oscars and stumbled upon Kageni's store. After discussing her vision for an outfit, Kageni set to work, creating a stunning Brocade jacket. Two weeks later, Owens wore the piece to the Oscars, and Kageni’s fashion journey took a major turn.
The Oscars Moment
The Oscars red carpet moment was a breakthrough in Kageni’s career. Not only was it a personal triumph, but it also brought increased recognition to her brand. Owens’ daughter, who won an Oscar for her documentary, proudly wore Kageni’s creation during the prestigious ceremony. The success of this event opened doors to new opportunities, including securing high-profile orders and collaborations.
Since the Oscars, the buzz around Kageni’s designs has grown, with her customer base expanding beyond African communities to include influential figures from various backgrounds. Her unique combination of African heritage and Western fashion sensibilities continues to draw attention and admiration.
Challenges and Opportunities
As a Kenyan native in the U.S., Victoria Kageni has faced both challenges and opportunities. The fashion industry in America, while diverse in many ways, often lacks inclusivity in terms of representation. However, Kageni's African-inspired designs have become a point of intrigue, attracting clients who appreciate the uniqueness and cultural richness her creations offer. Her pieces tell stories of Kenya and African heritage, creating a deeper connection with those who wear them.
Instagram | gusabyvictoria | Kageni's designs, infused with African artistry, intrigue clients with their captivating uniqueness.
Despite the success, Kageni still encounters struggles that are common to many small business owners. Limited access to funding remains a significant hurdle for creative entrepreneurs like her, both in the U.S. and Kenya. Additionally, while she has experienced moments of racial prejudice, she remains determined to persevere, using her experiences to fuel her passion and drive.
Sustainability in Fashion
Kageni is also committed to sustainability in her work. Inspired by her father, who was known for turning discarded items into something beautiful, she uses leftover fabric from her clothing designs to create abstract artwork. This eco-conscious approach not only minimizes waste but also adds a unique, artistic dimension to her fashion practice.
The Future of Gusa by Victoria
Victoria Kageni’s work is far from finished. With plans to launch a course called "Bankable Artistry" to teach aspiring designers, she continues to give back to the community that has supported her journey. The future of her brand includes exciting projects like a subscription box featuring curated clothing, jewelry, and artwork—an immersive experience designed to bring Kenya’s culture to the world.
As Kageni continues to grow her brand and reach new audiences, her passion for celebrating cultural diversity through fashion remains at the heart of everything she does. Her journey serves as an inspiration for anyone chasing their dreams, proving that with determination and creativity, even the most improbable paths can lead to remarkable success.
For Victoria Kageni, the future is bright, and her story is far from over.
