Meet Carine Yango | Founder of Maison Ndukong

We had the good fortune of connecting with Carine Yango and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi CARINE, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The inspiration behind starting Maison Ndukong came from a deep-rooted love for fashion and a desire to create something that resonates with both style and culture. Growing up, I was always captivated by the artistry behind handbags—their ability to tell stories, complement an outfit, and serve as a canvas for creativity. However, I noticed a gap in the market for handbags that not only showcased exquisite craftsmanship but also embodied cultural heritage and modern aesthetics.

Cultural Heritage
As someone who cherishes my cultural roots, I wanted Maison Ndukong to be a celebration of African art and traditions. Each design draws inspiration from the rich history and craftsmanship of my heritage, incorporating traditional patterns, colors, and techniques. My goal was to create handbags that serve as a bridge between contemporary fashion and timeless cultural narratives.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices
In today’s world, consumers are increasingly aware of the impact of their purchases. I wanted Maison Ndukong to stand for more than just beautiful products; I aimed to promote sustainability and ethical practices. By collaborating with local artisans ( in Kenya) and using eco-friendly materials, we honor the craft while ensuring that our impact on the environment is minimal.

Empowerment
Another core motivation was empowerment. I believe that every handbag can carry a story, and through Maison Ndukong, I want to empower individuals to express their unique identities. Whether it’s through bold colors, intricate designs, or versatile styles, I want our handbags to inspire confidence and encourage self-expression.

Quality and Craftsmanship
At Maison Ndukong, quality is paramount. I pay meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every handbag is crafted with care and precision. We use high-quality materials that not only look good but are also durable, allowing our products to stand the test of time.

In essence, starting Maison Ndukong was about merging my passion for fashion, my commitment to cultural storytelling, and my desire to make a positive impact in the industry. I am thrilled to share this journey with others who appreciate the beauty of art and craftsmanship.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As an entrepreneur, I am incredibly proud of the brand I’ve built and the community we’ve fostered around it. It’s exciting to see how my vision has come to life, allowing me to connect with others who share a passion for quality, sustainable fashion. Watching my creations resonate with customers and knowing that I’m contributing to a meaningful narrative is truly fulfilling.

As a mother and wife, my pride lies in balancing these roles with my professional aspirations. I’m excited to set an example for my children, showing them that with dedication and perseverance, they can pursue their dreams while also cherishing family values. It’s a challenging yet rewarding journey to be both nurturing and ambitious.

As a Nurse I enjoy caring for my patients and building meaningful relationships. The ability to positively impact someone’s life during challenging times, whether through healing, comfort, or support, is incredibly rewarding for me.

As a Release Train Engineer, I take pride in leading teams through complex projects and facilitating collaboration. It’s rewarding to see different teams come together to achieve a common goal, and I love being a part of that process.

My Journey to Where I Am Today

My journey has been anything but easy. It has been a path filled with learning, growth, and resilience. I started my career with a passion for Nursing and gradually transitioned into entrepreneurship. The decision to start my own brand was fueled by a desire to create something meaningful and impactful.

I sought mentorship, networked with like-minded individuals, and continuously educated myself about the industry. Each role I’ve taken on, whether as a mother, wife, or engineer, has contributed to my professional development and shaped my perspective.

Overcoming Challenges

Challenges have been a constant companion on this journey. Balancing family life with entrepreneurship and engineering responsibilities can be daunting. I’ve faced moments of self-doubt, financial pressures, and the overwhelming feeling of juggling multiple roles.

To overcome these challenges, I focused on time management and prioritization. I learned to set clear boundaries and ask for help when needed. Surrounding myself with a supportive network of family, friends, and mentors has been invaluable. Embracing failure as a learning opportunity has also allowed me to grow and adapt.

Lessons Learned Along the Way

1. **Resilience is Key**: Setbacks are part of the journey. What matters is how you respond to them.
2. **Embrace Balance**: It’s okay to prioritize family and self-care. A balanced life fuels creativity and productivity.
3. **Continuous Learning**: Stay curious and open to new ideas. The world is always evolving, and so should you.
4. **Value Relationships**: Build and nurture a network of support. Collaboration and connection can lead to incredible opportunities.

What I Want the World to Know

I want the world to know that my brand is more than just a business; it’s a reflection of my values and a celebration of culture, creativity, and sustainability. Every piece I create tells a story and embodies a commitment to quality and ethical practices.

My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams, embrace their identities, and create positive change in their communities. Together, we can build a world where creativity and purpose intersect.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. I’m excited for what the future holds and look forward to continuing to share my story with you all!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m more of an indoor person but if we had to go somewhere I’ll definitely take them to African or Thai Restaurants in the southwest part of Houston. They got some good food.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
🌟 **Shoutout Time!** 🌟

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to a few incredible people and organizations that have been pivotal in my journey.

First and foremost, a massive thank you to my amazing husband ,family and friends! Your unwavering support and encouragement have been my backbone through this entire process. Your belief in my vision keeps me motivated, and I couldn’t have done this without you. ❤️

A special shoutout to the Think Tank organization for providing me with a fantastic platform to share my brand with a wider audience. Your support and resources have been invaluable in helping me grow and connect with amazing people. Thank you for believing in my mission and helping me reach more individuals who resonate with my vision! 🌍✨

Lastly, I want to extend my deepest appreciation to Christelle Endale Elok. Your mentorship has been a guiding light for me. Your insights in the fashion world, advice, and encouragement have helped shape my path, and I am incredibly grateful for your support. Thank you for being such an inspiring mentor! 🙏💖

Together, let’s continue to uplift and support one another on this journey! 💪✨

#Gratitude #SupportSystem #Mentorship #Community #MaisonNdukong

Website: https://www.maisonndukong.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maison_ndukong

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cariney

Twitter: https://x.com/maisonndukong/status/1815128420558225896?s=46&t=srFg2EHRqr3rtKMdG6h9CA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/zQFc12WKMaWUBAZr/

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@maisonndukong?si=lWfXl03s2YA9grFy

Other: Tiktok : https://www.tiktok.com/@maison.ndukong