Tembo NYC Collections: Purpose-Driven Products with Impact
Designs That Empower
Founded by award-winning designer Deb Chusid in 2019, Tembo NYC combines art, activism, and sustainable fashion to create products that empower women and make a difference. Whether it’s our signature totes, scarves, or accessories, every item tells a meaningful story and supports social and environmental justice. With 5% of profits benefiting the ACLU, every purchase contributes to the fight for fundamental rights, gender equality, and climate justice.
Empowering Women Through Local Partnerships
Tembo NYC partners with the Artisan Sewing Co-op in Queens, NYC, a collective of immigrant women who create each piece by hand. These seamstresses work from home, overcoming challenges like language barriers and childcare costs. One-third of sales from our cotton goods go directly to these women, ensuring fair wages and financial independence.
Wear Art, Wear Change
Collaborating with female artists around the globe, we bring you bold, statement-making designs that advocate for positive change. Each print is a conversation starter—crafted with eco-friendly materials and designed to inspire action on social issues. From our iconic totes to our premium scarves, every product is created with purpose and heart.
CUSTOM PRINTS: Bring Your Vision to Life
At Tembo NYC, we turn meaningful stories into beautiful, wearable art. Founder Deb Chusid brings over 25 years of creative expertise to every project. Whether you’re looking to create custom designs for your brand or organization, we’re here to help.
- Design + Production: Let’s work together to bring your custom design to life. Place an order of 500 units, and we’ll waive the design fee.
- Design Service: Need a unique print? We offer creative direction and custom design, with a fee based on the scope of your project. You’ll receive high-res files ready for production.
Partnerships for Purpose-Driven Brands
We’re all about collaboration, whether you’re a nonprofit, small business, or social enterprise. If you share our values, we’d love to partner with you to create custom prints or meaningful products that align with your mission. Let’s make an impact together—reach out to explore how we can work together to support your goals.
Wholesale Opportunities
Tembo NYC products are available for wholesale with a minimum opening order of $300. Contact us at tembonyc@gmail.com for our latest wholesale catalog.
FOR ALL INQUIRIES CONTACT:
Deb Chusid, Founder
tembonyc@gmail.com.
Fun Fact: Tembo Means Elephant
In Swahili, Tembo means elephant—a symbol of strength, wisdom, and close-knit communities. As someone who’s had the privilege of volunteering for elephants and wildlife conservation in Thailand and Africa, founder Deb Chusid has a personal connection to these incredible animals. Female elephants lead tight-knit family groups, guided by a wise matriarch who protects and nurtures the herd. While males may come and go, the females stick together, working as a team to safeguard each other and their young. This sense of unity and cooperation is at the heart of Tembo NYC, where we value collaboration, community, and strength in everything we create.
