A Journey of Resilience, Passion, and Heritage

Unapendeza by Furahi was founded in June 2020 by Esther Ngemba, the designer and creative visionary behind the brand. Her story, however, begins much earlier and a world away. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Esther’s early life was shaped by the vibrant culture and rich artistic traditions of her homeland. In 2011, seeking refuge from war, she and her family resettled in Cleveland, Ohio, carrying with them the stories, colors, and spirit of the Congo. Nine years later, fueled by a passion to share her heritage with the world, Esther founded Unapendeza—a name that means “you look good” in Swahili. It began as a fashion social enterprise, a way to showcase the beauty of Congolese culture and design. Today, that vision has blossomed into a home and lifestyle brand dedicated to bringing that same joy, vibrancy, and sense of community into our most cherished spaces. Each pattern is a piece of Esther’s history, and every product is an invitation to celebrate diversity, explore culture, and embrace your own unique story.