Meet Raymond Egbo | Founder & Jewelry Designer

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

Hi Raymond, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Egbo Collections began as a personal project born out of a desire to address the lack of representation of African culture, art, and heritage in the jewelry industry. Recognizing a gap in the market, I embarked on developing this project, which gradually evolved into a full-fledged business. Egbo Collections is committed to being a leader and cultural educator in the jewelry sector, aiming to raise awareness and foster appreciation of the African diaspora through its unique pieces.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My creative work is deeply rooted in my personal vision, setting it apart in its uniqueness. I strive to avoid imitation of existing designs, ensuring that my creations align with my own creative standards. Central to my process are four key considerations: attractiveness, cultural appropriateness, meaningfulness, and longevity, which serve as the foundation for each new design.

My career trajectory has been a gradual progression, marked by both successes and setbacks, all of which have been instrumental in shaping my journey thus far. Balancing the creative and business aspects of my work has been a continuous challenge, one that has been aided by my academic background in business.

During challenging times, my faith, passion for creativity, and reliance on my vision all have been crucial in keeping me motivated. I have learned to focus on my abilities and not dwell on factors beyond my control, embracing the belief that ‘what’s meant for me will be for me.’

I am passionate about showcasing the luxury inherent in culture, particularly in celebrating blackness, heritage, arts, and creativity. Egbo Collections is dedicated to championing this ethos, striving to reinforce the significance of cultural pride and creativity on a global scale.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Living in New York, there’s ALWAYS something to do no matter the time of the year. Personally I’m a foodie and not a huge party goer but here are some of my fave go-to food spots in the city.

Clinton St Bakery, Maison Pickles, A Sunday In Brooklyn, Kotè, Zu Zu, Shopsins, 7th St Burger and L’Artusi. Honestly there are many other places I’ve been often that you can spend a whole week eating alone.
Fave drink spots are Fresh kills, Over story, up & up, west light and undercote.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am grateful for the myriad of individuals who have contributed to my journey. Foremost, I acknowledge God for His guidance, without which none of my successes would be possible. I extend my appreciation to my village of brothers, comprising both relatives and close friends, as well as the village of amazing women who have supported me. I am thankful for the individuals who have come and gone, leaving invaluable nuggets of information that have propelled me forward. Special recognition goes to my girlfriend for continually pushing my capabilities to higher levels. Lastly, I express my deepest gratitude to my parents for believing in my dream and providing unwavering encouragement.

Website: www.egbocollections.com

Instagram: Egbocollections

Facebook: Egbocollections

Image Credits
Dasha Brook Kash Photography Little Wolf Collective