Our Story

Derived from Swahili, "Umba" represents the ideas of growth and creation—two pillars that define everything we do at Umba Design Studio. Like the organizations we work with, "Umba" is about evolving into something impactful and crafting spaces for connection and transformation. Growth is the thread that weaves through our services, from designing authentic narratives to building strategies that foster organizational success.

Umba Design Studio began with a simple yet profound belief: that every organization has a unique story waiting to be told. Our founder envisioned a studio that wouldn’t just design beautiful spaces or strategies but would uncover the soul of each organization’s mission. "Authentic Stories, Strategic Growth" encapsulates our commitment to elevating people, fostering community bonds, and driving meaningful change.

From crafting narratives that resonate deeply with audiences to designing visuals that transform spaces into living stories, we empower organizations to grow. Whether it’s a nonprofit striving for greater community impact or a cultural institution preserving its heritage, we partner with those who value authenticity and see storytelling as a pathway to growth—financially, strategically, and personally.

Our Values

• Authenticity: We believe in uncovering and honoring the true stories of our clients to foster genuine connections.

• Stories: We value the power of storytelling as a catalyst for growth, both for individuals and organizations.

• People: Relationships are at the heart of everything we do, ensuring collaboration and inclusivity.

• Strategic Thinking: We provide innovative, actionable solutions that drive meaningful change.