Embracing My Style and Voice: A Journey of Entrepreneurship, Fashion, and Purpose

Sharing Lessons, Stories, and Inspirations from a Life Lessons

Hey there!

Here we go! I was advised to share a little about myself in my first blog post. Many of you already know me, but please bear with me as I introduce myself to those who will join later. I also hope you’ll share this with your network and invite them to subscribe!

I’m Rahel, born and raised in Tanzania and groomed on the South Side of Chicago (this is an important part of my identity, and it will show in my writing). I am a social entrepreneur, philanthropist, nonprofit executive, wife, daughter, auntie, and friend. I am the founder and creative director of ILAVA, a social enterprise that empowers women in Tanzania through handmade, ethically produced fashion. I also lead ILAVA Gives Back, the nonprofit arm of ILAVA, which focuses on philanthropy and community impact.

In addition to my work with ILAVA, I have a full-time job (yep, you read that right!). I serve as the Director of Innovation and Ideas at ELCA, where I help faith-based communities explore innovative approaches to ministry and social justice. Previously, I was the Director of Global Mission Funding at ELCA, supporting fundraising efforts for global initiatives.

I love my home country deeply and want others to experience that love, too. Through Travel with ILAVA, I curate unforgettable trips to Tanzania, showcasing its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden gems.

I love and enjoy adventure. In 2023, I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and documented my journey in a film titled Chasing Uhuru Peak: Mt. Kilimanjaro Experience. Soon, I will be releasing a coffee table book, Chasing Uhuru Peak: Memories of a Daughter of the Soil Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro

Why I’ve Decided to Publish Here

For a long time, imposter syndrome held me back from sharing my writing. I was afraid of being judged and criticized, especially since English is my second language. Growing up, I was often heavily critiqued by teachers and supervisors—I’m sure they meant well, but looking back, their words slowly chipped away at my confidence.

Despite that, I’ve always loved writing. I thrive on deep, meaningful conversations. As an INFJ (Myers-Briggs personality type—if you don’t know yours, take a test; you won’t regret it) intentional discussions energize me, and writing is one of my favorite ways to connect with others. I’ve shared my thoughts through ILAVA’s newsletter and blog before, but now, I’m ready to expand beyond and fully embrace this journey.

I'll be sharing insights from my entrepreneurial journey, including lessons learned and observations along the way. Expect reflections on fashion, travel, and simply life—because, why not? After all, we're all multidimensional humans with stories to tell! The goal is to publish two blog posts per month, on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.

I look forward to connecting with you—please share this with your friends and family! Please hold me accountable.

Until next time—xo, Rahel