From Vision to Reality: Akunna Nwala-Akano’s Journey in Nigerian Luxury Jewelry

Exploring Heritage Through Jewelry: The Journey of Akunna Nwala-Akano

Akunna Nwala-Akano embodies the spirit of exploration, a trait that has guided her through various professional landscapes. With a background in law and taxes, she has seamlessly transitioned into the world of entrepreneurship, culminating in the creation of her fine jewelry brand, Akano. Founded in 2020, Akano reflects not only her African heritage but also a global sensibility, making it a unique player in the luxury jewelry market.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Nwala-Akano’s passion for jewelry can be traced back to her childhood, where her grandmother played a pivotal role in nurturing her interest. “My grandmother taught me about emeralds, rubies, coral, and other gemstones, and she gifted me my first jewelry pieces—as is our custom,” she recalls. This familial connection to jewelry serves as the foundation for her brand, which seeks to celebrate African traditions while appealing to a broader audience.

A Diverse Background

Born and raised in Nigeria, Nwala-Akano graduated from the University of Nigeria Nsukka and completed her studies at the Nigerian Law School in 2005. Her early career in the banking sector and later at the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service equipped her with essential skills in discipline and people management. “You have to be detailed. You have to be able to sit down and go through all of those accounts and numbers,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of meticulousness in her previous roles.

From Beauty to Jewelry

In 2009, Nwala-Akano founded Kukus Hair, a luxury hair products brand and salon that quickly gained traction in Nigeria’s beauty industry. This venture not only made her a household name but also earned her several entrepreneurial awards. “Working with hair and beauty is special because you have to be creative,” she notes, highlighting the knowledge required to help women look and feel their best.

Her desire to create luxury brands from Africa for a global audience fueled her entrepreneurial journey. In 2018, she co-founded MasterMind Décor, a design venture that showcased her natural affinity for aesthetics and spatial storytelling. However, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that her interest in jewelry truly blossomed.

A New Passion Emerges

Stuck at home during lockdown, Nwala-Akano began experimenting with her wardrobe, creating videos and envisioning how jewelry could enhance her outfits. “If I couldn’t find it in my closet, I’d draw it,” she recalls. This creative exploration led her to reconnect with craftspeople she had met over the years, who were eager to collaborate with her. Encouraged by friends who admired her designs, she took the plunge into the jewelry industry.

“People made me believe in my craft—they made me feel like I knew what I was doing,” she laughs, reflecting on the moment she decided to trust her instincts and pursue her passion for jewelry design.

A Cultural Connection

Initially named Diamonds Eternal Jewellers, Nwala-Akano rebranded her company to honor her Igbo culture, infusing her pieces with stories and symbols that resonate with her heritage. Her ultimate vision is to establish Akano as a high jewelry house that captures the essence of the African spirit. “I want to celebrate my language and heritage through my brand,” she asserts.

Akano’s collections, such as Adaeze, explore form and texture through materials like mother-of-pearl, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship that defines her work. “Jewelry is not just about adornment. As an Igbo woman, it is spiritually and culturally significant,” she emphasizes, underscoring the deeper meanings behind her creations.

Conclusion

Akunna Nwala-Akano’s journey from law and finance to the world of luxury jewelry is a testament to her resilience and creativity. Through Akano, she not only celebrates her heritage but also aims to redefine the narrative of African luxury on a global scale. With each piece, she invites wearers to connect with the rich cultural tapestry of Africa, making her brand a beacon of exploration and artistry in the jewelry industry.