Meet Esther Nkaambi of Malkia E Boutique in Mabelton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Esther Nkaambi.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Esther. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I was born and raised in Kenya. I got an opportunity to come to the US to study. I enrolled in Kennesaw state university and proceeded to graduate with a degree in business and then later a master’s in Human Resources. I worked in corporate America in various roles in the retail/operations and HR space. After 14 years with the company, they had a massive layoff. I had a couple of options, go find another job, or go find another job (lol). My husband sat me down and said “I support what you want to do, however I would like to suggest that it is time to design your best life and live it. Walk in your passion and purpose.” I had so much support during this time from amazing mentors and even offered a role as a Coach by an amazing woman I call my angel Cindy. I love being a coach and l also love fashion.

I grew up in a household with parents and siblings who have swag! I knew from a young age I wanted to own a shop that sold goods curated from all over the world representing different cultures but mainly showcase Kenyan talent. I didn’t know when or how. I have always worn bright colors and most importantly truly Embraced the African prints, fabrics, jewelry and incorporated that into my daily wardrobe especially in corporate America. I would get lots of compliments but also people asking how they could purchase clothing and accessories like mine. Had plenty of quiet time to think and strategize my next moves while I was home, I took up my husband’s offer and I headed to Kenya to source goods and layout a plan of what this new season and the journey would look like.

In three months, I was able to create a team of individuals that carry the Malkia E brand on their shoulders. Without them this business would be nothing. I have Dave who is my head tailor and makes all the dresses, custom laptop bags and all sorts of clutches that we carry. We use the scrap materials left from making our apparel and incorporate it into our bags and accessories.

Rodgers is our brass-smith, he has an amazing team who hand forge every piece of brass jewelry we have. From our earrings, rings, necklaces and statement stone bracelets.

Nick is our beaded jewelry maker.

All these individuals and their family are the hands that bring my vision alive.

My niece Peru is my manager on the ground in Kenya who makes sure everything is in order as we are in two different continents and time zones.

My entire family all play a role in making this brand what it is and I am forever indebted to them.

In less than a year, we have been able to curate pieces that are loved by everyone who comes across them and purchases from us.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Reid Hoffman said it best and I got this quote from my coach; “Starting a company is like throwing yourself off a cliff and assembling an airplane on your way down”. Every day there is something different. They seriously do not teach this in any school. One of my biggest obstacles was shipping my goods in a timely money from Kenya to Atlanta.

Also, not being on the ground in Kenya to supervise and advice the team face to face on some of the things can be lost in translation and not caught on time. Which can be costly on time and production. It’s also a 7 hour time difference between Kenya and here, so having to schedule calls with my team and fabric suppliers at random hours to accommodate everyone.

One of the biggest change has been adjusting from a scheduled corporate mentality to owning my time. It takes a lot of discipline.

I am truly learning how to get comfortable with being uncomfortable as that is where true change and great life lessons stem from.

We’d love to hear more about your business.
Malkia Means Queen in Swahili, which is our national language in Kenya. The E Stands for my first name Esther. I am a Jesus lover and my name is from the Bible and relates to the story of Queen Esther. We are all about “adorning royalty” Royalty meaning every woman and man who comes across our brand. Our brand is all about curating handmade jewelry and clothing made in Kenya by Kenyans, for the world. We are known for our brass jewelry and our one size fits most dresses. Where all dresses come with deep pockets and matching belts.

The concept of one size fits most came about when I realized that I would not be able at the moment as a new business owner be able to provide custom-fitted clothing as my team is in a different country and I am not at a point where we can offer alterations.

What I love about this business is the employment opportunities that we are providing to not only my team but those who work to produce our finished products. Also the ease of financial pressure on my team and their families since we started operating and providing tuition for the kids in school.

Oprah said it best: “You don’t become what you want, you become what you believe.”

I have had an amazing tribe of people who have always believed in me and Wanted things for me more than I did. In this venture, I have had to remember who I am surrounded by and shifted that thinking into believing in myself and realizing that I am my only limit.

When I wake up in the morning whatever day It is and I am on own schedule, and success or fail is determined by whatever decisions I make, that definitely lights a fire in my belly to push through any limitations.

My husband’s loving and supportive parents have always reminded us to “stop and smell the roses.” I am learning to listen to my body, mind and thoughts to make sure I am aligned in my purpose but most importantly to enjoy life’s little moments.

I am proud of my Mindset which has shifted tremendously since becoming a small business owner. I have surrounded myself with a Mastermind of amazing females who meet virtually once a week to discuss our purpose, vision and mission by applying the concepts taught in the book “Think and Grow Rich.”

I am truly excited for the future of Malkia E. Extremely proud of what my team in Kenya has accomplished and will accomplish in the future. Before anything we are family. Our brand is committed to making others better, I believe there is no limit to what we can accomplish both individually and collectively.

It is time for the world to see what talents Kenyans can add to the global market.

What were you like growing up?
I read lots of books and I had quite an imagination.

I enjoyed sports growing up and was on the running team in school, drama and dancing clubs that won quite a few accolades at the national level.

I was also full of mischief I did get into trouble with my mum quite a lot.

I blame it on my sense of adventure (chuckles) but my personality has come full cycle in helping build amazing relationships and navigate the different countries I have been fortunate to travel to with ease.

Contact Info:

• Email: Esther@malkiae.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malkia__e/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Malkia-Nkaambi-543191766194535/

Image Credit:
Personal photo – Drani Futo

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