Today, we’d like to introduce you to Patricia Kayanga. Patricia was introduced to us by the brilliant and talented Donna Morris & Dwayna Williams.
Patricia, can you walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’m the Founder of Ohhs and a first-generation immigrant from Uganda. I came here under unfortunate circumstances but was blessed to know a better life. I wouldn’t have been here if it wasn’t for the sacrifices of my mother following the murder of my father. Beyond giving me the training and education to be the woman I am today, my mother is the brain behind the business idea of Ohhs. After complaining about the many expensive underwears, I ruined because of my unpredictable cycle; my mother encouraged me to create something I could dispose of. I started to dream and created biodegradable disposable underwear made from bamboo and non-woven fabric. My mother used to say, “Banna bange, muli banaku,” which roughly translates to “my children, you come from sorrow.” In Uganda, it’s a colloquial phrase that reminds people to slow down, remember where they come from, appreciate what they have, and be better.
While researching the market, I found that millions of girls drop out of school due to menstrual stigmas within their communities or simply a lack of resources. I realized that if I didn’t have the opportunity to come to the states, I might have been one of those girls. Knowing these stats meant creating a product that felt good with a business structure that served a greater purpose. My purpose is to make a difference in young girls’ lives one day at a time while creating something simple for every woman.
Please tell us more about your brand, Ohhs
Ohhs is “created by women for women.” The seamless disposable underwear is made of eco-friendly and biodegradable bamboo, perfect for travel, camping, spas, hotels, your periods, and any emergencies. Underwear is a staple in everyone’s closet. Wearing Ohhs disposable underwear provides women with comfort and ease as what we call “Ohh Moments.”
Our products simplify underwear through a design for convenience and easy to grab and go. From the underwear to the packaging, we use sustainable products. Our mission is to create products made of sustainable materials that we love and our consumers cannot live without. Ohhs is a product of convenience, but we recognize that not everyone can always afford the luxury of spending on comfort. Underwear is often overlooked as a basic hygienic need. This is why we donate a pair to a local women’s shelter for every box we sell. We donate 5% of our profits to NGOs that provide menstrual resources to school-aged girls and women. Additionally, in our first year, we donated over 10% of our profits to organizations that offer menstrual resources to school-aged girls. This year for every box sold, we donate a pair of underwear to local women’s shelters.
TGND Consulting has been a great friend to us and I know you’ve got a great relationship as well. Maybe you can tell our audience a bit about TGND Consulting and your experience with them.
I’ve had many first with TGND Consulting, and I have spoken about things that TGND has brought into existence in previous years. There have been many first with Dwayna and Donna, from my first radio interview to my first TV interview. I even envisioned Ohhs in a Fashion Show, and TGND made that happen. There have also been countless magazines that I’ve been able to be featured in because of TGND’s PR services.
Through their brand image services, I have also been able to boost my confidence. It has made me love what I did do so much more. I don’t say thank you enough. This experience means a lot and makes me emotional. I’m grateful to God and TGND. I’m experiencing a dream come true, and I know that TGND has my back. Our client relationship and communications feel like I’m talking to people who care, like family. I firmly believe God puts people before you to align you with your purpose. His vision! There’s a time and place where you meet people at the right time, and TGND Consulting has been just that. Their services are worth every investment and more, and I see much value in them. I strongly recommend their services to women and moms with lifestyle brands looking to share their stories, increase their awareness and showcase the value of their company digitally.
Website: https://myohhs.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohhsunderwear/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciakayanga/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OhhsUnderwear
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ohhsdisposables/
Image Credits
Product Images (Nikayla Scott & Valeria Photographer)
