Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenny Kita.
Jenny, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
As a professional dancer who has been blessed to share the stage with icons such as Gwen Stefani (as harajuku girl “Angel”), Madonna, Psy, Chris Brown and more, over the years I expanded my skill sets and became a union Props/Set Dresser/Shopper for TV production, a certified yoga instructor, and a wedding dance choreographer (www.rockthepartyonline.com). Back in March while working on Fox’s Master Chef, coronavirus hit all industries I was involved in. While unemployed (and unable to receive unemployment benefits–long story, not worth going into), I strived to keep a positive mindset and tried to keep things moving as much as possible.
Once the yoga studios shut down I began leading yoga/yoga sculpt, and stretch sessions online on Instagram Live (@jenny_kita). I just wanted to be of service at this odd uncertain time and offer an outlet for others to keep up with their yoga and fitness during the stay-at-home order. The shutdown also brought me back to my knack of sewing, as a granddaughter of a former professional seamstress, I learned to sew at a young age. I started sewing facemasks from cotton Japanese designed fabrics that my mother had gifted me a while ago. I was so fortunate to get a great response from my facemasks that it led to an amazing opportunity.
A mutual friend and CEO of a resort and hotel company in Hawaii approached myself and my childhood best friend to go into business to supply their employees and guests with these facemasks. My BFF, Jill Takahashi now a Hawaii resident, had lived and worked as an accessories designer/art director in NYC for 12 years. We joined forces and started DesignTribe, LLC! We used manufacturers in LA and Taiwan to mass produce our stylish 100% cotton, reversible facemasks for wholesale/retail buyers and offer custom branding with any business or team logo. I am so thankful for this new endeavor with my best friend as a business partner, it’s the silver lining that came out of this whole coronavirus mess! Please take care and do your part everyone, we will get through this.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Anything worth doing comes with its challenges and obstacles. Persistence and patience are key.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I would say luck has played a big role however, blessings don’t come without action, dedication, and gratitude so who’s to say if it’s actually “luck” per say… perhaps it’s rather the reward.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.designtribehi.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @designtribehi
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designtribehi
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