Welcome to the New Tembo NYC
If you’ve been following Tembo for a while, you’ve probably noticed some changes. Our new website isn’t just a fresh look—it’s part of a bigger shift in how we share our story, create with purpose, and grow our impact. As the founder of Tembo NYC, I’ve always believed in using design to do good. This new site brings together everything I care about: ethical products, purpose-driven design, and a clearer mission.
A Personal Journey That Changed Everything
Me and Ella in a Vespa sidecar—because sometimes the best way to move forward is to take the scenic route.
A little over a year ago, I had brain surgery to remove a benign tumor. I’m grateful to say I made a full recovery—but the experience made me pause and reevaluate everything, including the future of Tembo NYC.
I moved out, threw everything in storage, and hit the road with my little dog, Ella, for six months. That time away—exploring, healing, and reflecting—helped me reconnect with what matters most: doing meaningful work with heart, and building a business that reflects my values.
From Hacked Site to Fresh Start
Yep, our old site got hacked and redirected to an Indonesian gambling site 😳. Not ideal. But it forced me to start fresh—so welcome to tembonyc.design: a safer, stronger, more mission-aligned home for Tembo.
One Mission, One Partner: Why We Give to the ACLU
We’ve always donated 5% of profits to causes we care about. But now we’re going all in with one partner: the ACLU. From civil rights to climate justice, they’re fighting the fights that matter most right now—and we’re proud to support them.
New Skills, Better Experience
I recently earned a Digital Marketing Certificate from Brainstation to strengthen the way we connect online. This new site reflects those skills in action—from storytelling and SEO to smoother shopping and better engagement.
Putting It Into Action: Supporting St. Damien’s Hospital in Haiti
After earning my Digital Marketing Certificate, I had the chance to contribute to a World Health Day campaign for St. Damien’s Pediatric Hospital in Haiti. Partnering with a Chicago marketing agency, I helped bring the story to life through strategy and design. The campaign exceeded its fundraising goal—supporting life-saving care for children and families. It was a meaningful moment that reminded me how creative work can drive real-world impact.
Why This Matters
Tembo NYC is more than a design studio or a product brand. It’s a platform for change. Whether you’re here to shop ethically, build your brand, or collaborate on a campaign—we’re here for it. Thanks for being part of the journey.
Here’s to what’s next.