Rafiki Necklace

The RAFIKI Neckpiece is inspired by selfless acts of friendship and love. A Swahili word meaning “A Friend,” the collection was not inspired by Rafiki from The Lion King, but by a deeply moving experience of our founder.

A few years ago, while serving in powerful political offices, she received calls from community members about local social issues. One call led her to meet a remarkable 75-year-old woman, affectionately known as Gogo, who was caring for her orphaned grandchildren—lost to HIV/AIDS. Despite her limited pension, Gogo’s heart was huge. When her 9-year-old grandchild brought home a friend who had lost both parents and was living alone in a shack, the child asked if she could stay with them. Although Gogo couldn’t afford to take her in, the 9-year-old offered to share her own food.

This story of selfless love and sacrifice struck our founder deeply. Gogo’s compassion reminded her of the true meaning of friendship: being there for one another in times of need, even when it feels impossible. The URAFIKI Collection is for the women who embody this same spirit—those who care for others, share when they have little, and make the world better through their unwavering friendship.

This piece honors women who make a difference through their kindness and selflessness, just like Gogo.