Mizizi, a sports-streetwear brand that celebrates the African diaspora, has launched a new hockey jersey to mark its eighth anniversary. The jersey, which features a stunning design of the African landscape, is a departure from the brand’s usual country-specific collections. It is a tribute to the rich and diverse heritage of Africa and its people.
A Brand with a Mission
Mizizi, which means roots in Swahili, was founded in 2015 by Paakow Essandoh, a Ghanaian-American entrepreneur who wanted to create a brand that would inspire pride and unity among the African diaspora. Essandoh, who has a background in health science, started the brand at the age of 20 while pursuing his studies. Since then, he has grown the brand into a global phenomenon, collaborating with influential platforms such as Forbes, Vogue, and HYPEBEAST.
Mizizi’s mission is to showcase the beauty and diversity of African cultures and empower individuals to embrace their roots. The brand offers a range of jerseys, hoodies, jackets, and accessories that feature the colors and symbols of various African countries and regions. The brand also collaborates with other artists and organizations that share its vision, such as Disney’s The Lion King, Marvel’s Black Panther, and One Africa Global Foundation.
A Jersey that Celebrates Africa
The new hockey jersey, which was released on August 30, 2023, is the first-ever hockey jersey by Mizizi that does not have a country name on it. Instead, it depicts an artful representation of the African landscape, symbolizing a profound connection to the continent. The jersey was designed by Emmanuel Berko, one of the creative minds behind the brand.
The jersey has a soft orange hue that represents the warmth and vibrancy of African communities. The turquoise trimming and accents pay homage to the breathtaking African skies and waters. The multi-colored tribal patterns at the bottom reflect the unity in diversity across African cultures, celebrating shared heritage amidst individual identities. On the back, a striking turquoise infinity symbol stands tall, representing the everlasting commitment of Mizizi to African roots and the unbreakable bond among the diaspora.
The jersey was captured by the talented Kwesi Yanful and adorned by models Precious Agu and Reajine Sanders, styled by Amanda Taymor. The photoshoot showcases the essence of Mizizi: an unapologetic celebration of the past, a recognition of the present, and a declaration of the future, forever rooted in the African legacy.
A Future Full of Possibilities
Mizizi’s new hockey jersey is not only a milestone for the brand but also for the African diaspora. It is a reminder that there are some African countries that play hockey and have national teams. It is also a statement that Africa is not a monolith but a diverse and dynamic continent with endless potential.
As Mizizi celebrates its eighth anniversary, it also looks forward to expanding its reach and impact. Essandoh hopes to enter the space of the Paris 2024 Olympics and create more exclusive collections that embody connection, celebration, and representation. He also aims to make a positive difference in the world and honor the memory of his late brother, Anteneh Tebeje.
Mizizi is more than just a fashion brand. It is a movement that transcends borders and connects people through their roots. It is a celebration of Africa and its diaspora.
